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?

Great eagerness in the pursuit of wealth, pleasure, or honor, cannot exist without sin.

No Man is wise at all Times, or is without his blind Side.

A nail is driven out by another nail. Habit is overcome by habit.

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.

Young bodies are like tender plants, which grow and become hardened to whatever shape you've trained them.

Everybody hates a prodigy, detests an old head on young shoulders.