Brevity is the soul of command. Too much talking suggests desperation on the part of the leader. Speak shortly, decisively and to the point–and couch your desires in such natural logic that no one can raise objections. Then move on.

A man's enjoyment of all good things is in exact proportion to the pains he has undergone to gain them.

All men have their frailties; and whoever looks for a friend without imperfections, will never find what he seeks.

We love ourselves notwithstanding our faults, and we ought to love our friends in like manner.

In my experience, men who respond to good fortune with modesty and kindness are harder to find than those who face adversity with courage.

I am Cyrus, king of the world.

Even if the skies were shorter than my knees, I would not kneel.