We dined quietly together without saying anything about the affair we had at heart, for nothing is more imprudent or more dangerous than to speak in the presence of servants, who out of maliciousness or ignorance put the worst construction on what they hear; add or diminish, and think themselves privileged to divulge their master's secrets, especially as they know them without having been entrusted with them.
"The Memoires of Casanova, Complete The Rare Unabridged London Edition Of 1894, plus An Unpublished Chapter of History, By Arthur Symons"
Jacques Casanova de Seingalt
"Yes," said la Peyrade, with a maliciousness that was quite lost upon Phellion, "thoughts, especially in the style of la Rochefoucauld or la Bruyere, might do.
"The Lesser Bourgeoisie"
Honore de Balzac
As she was amusing in her maliciousness, people listened to her and laughed; however, the glances of all the men-even and indeed especially the younger ones-soon reverted to her triumphant mother, who seemingly defied old age.
"Paris From the "Three Cities""
Emile Zola