The simple circumstantial narrative (did such a narrative exist) of the ruin of a single town, of the misfortunes of a single family, might exhibit an interesting and instructive picture of human manners; but the tedious repetition of vague and declamatory complaints would fatigue the attention of the most patient reader.

But a law, however venerable be the sanction, cannot suddenly transform the temper of the times . . .

[Whole] generations may be swept away by the madness of kings in the space of a single hour.

Suspicious princes often promote the last of mankind, from a vain persuasion that those who have no dependence except on their favor will have no attachment except to the person of their benefactor.

I sighed as a lover, I obeyed as a son.

The Roman government appeared every day less formidable to its enemies, more odious and oppressive to its subjects.

A Locrian, who proposed any new law, stood forth in the assembly of the people with a cord round his neck, and if the law was rejected, the innovator was instantly strangled.