There are some whose only reason for inciting war is to use it as a means to exercise their tyranny over their subjects more easily. For in times of peace the authority of the assembly, the dignity of the magistrates, the force of the laws stand in the way to some extent of the ruler doing what he likes. But once war is declared then the whole business of state is subject to the will of a few ... They demand as much money as they like. Why say more?

Dulce bellum inexpertis. - War is lovely for those who know nothing about it.

It is wisdom in prosperity, when all is as thou wouldn't have it, to fear and suspect the worst.

The majority of the common people loathe war and pray for peace; only a handful of individuals, whose evil joys depend on general misery, desire war.

Of two evils choose the least.

A good prince will tax as lightly as possible those commodities which are used by the poorest members of society: grain, bread, beer, wine, clothing, and all other staples without which human life could not exist.

The opinion formulated by the Church has more value in my eyes than human reasons, whatever they may be.