A wise prince must never take things easy in times of peace.

Knowing how to keep a friend is more important than gaining a new one.

Lies always come first, dragging fools along by their irreparable vulgarity. Truth always lags last, limping along on the arm of time.

Even monarchs have need of authors, and fear their pens more than ugly women the painter's pencil.

Do not commit yourself to anybody or anything, for that is to be a slave, a slave to every man Above all, keep yourself free of commitments and obligations - they are the device of another to get you into his power

One deceit needs many others, and so the whole house is built in the air and must soon come to the ground

The wise have a solid sense of silence and the ability to keep a storehouse of secrets. Their capacity and character are respected.