The result showed that fortune helps the brave.
Bad beginnings, bad endings.
It takes a long time to bring excellence to maturity.
When Tarquin the Proud was asked what was the best mode of governing a conquered city, he replied only by beating down with his staff all the tallest poppies in his garden.
Fame opportunely despised often comes back redoubled.
Favor and honor sometimes fall more fitly on those who do not desire them.