Excellence resides in quality, not in quantity. The best is always few and rare; much lowers value.
Wisdom and courage make mutual contributions to greatness.
Friends provoked become the bitterest of enemies.
Man is born a barbarian, and only raises himself above the beast by culture.
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.
God Himself chasteneth not with a rod but with time.