Deception is the knowledge of kings.

A virtuous and well-disposed person, like a good metal, the more he is fired, the more he is fined; the more he is opposed, the more he is approved: wrongs may well try him, and touch him, but cannot imprint in him any false stamp.

Reason must be the universal rule and guide; all things must be done according to reason without allowing oneself to be swayed by emotion.

Harshness towards individuals who flout the laws and commands of the state is for the public good; no greater crime against the public interest is possible than to show leniency to those who violate it.

Carry on any enterprise as if all future success depended on it.

Nothing so upholds the laws as the punishment of persons whose rank is as great as their crime.

We may employ artifice to deceive a rival, anything against our enemies.