Don't express your ideas too clearly. Most people think little of what they understand, and venerate what they do not.

The sole advantage of power is that you can do more good.

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

A man is judged by his friends, for the wise and the foolish have never agreed.

Wise men appreciate all men, for they see the good in each and know how hard it is to make anything good.

When a man's knowledge is deep, he speaks well of an enemy. Instead of seeking revenge, he extends unexpected generosity. He turns insult into humor, ... and astonishes his adversary who finds no reason not to trust him.

There is no desert like being friendless.