Better to rely on one powerful king than on many little princes.

Nothing is as dangerous as an ignorant friend; a wise enemy is to be preferred.

Everyone has his faults which he continually repeats: neither fear nor shame can cure them.

The good, we do it; the evil, that is fortune; man is always right, and destiny always wrong.

Never sell the bear's skin before one has killed the beast.

Our condition never satisfies us; the present is always the worst. Though Jupiter should grant his request to each, we should continue to importune him.

Rather suffer than die is man's motto.