The will is taken for the deed.
More French Proverbs:
The richest man carries nothing away with him but a shroud.French
Grass will not grow on a volcano.
French
Who hears music feels his solitude.
French
He is like a singed cat, better than he looks.
French
A colt is good for nothing if it does not break its halter.
French
One can't make head or tail of it.
French