"A great many men's gratitude is nothing but a secret desire to hook in more valuable kindnesses hereafter"

This quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld suggests that many individuals's expressions of thankfulness are not genuine, however rather a method to manipulate others into doing more for them in the future. He suggests that people are not genuinely grateful for the compassion they have actually received, however instead are utilizing their gratitude as a method to get more favors in the future. This quote recommends that people are not constantly honest in their expressions of appreciation, and that they might be utilizing it as a method to get something in return. It also indicates that people may be making the most of the compassion of others, which they might be using their gratitude as a way to get free ride. This quote functions as a suggestion to be cautious of individuals's expressions of thankfulness, and to be familiar with the potential ulterior motives behind them.