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.

In adversity assume the countenance of prosperity, and in prosperity moderate the temper and desires.

Friendships ought to be immortal, hostilities mortal.

Toil and pleasure, dissimilar in nature, are nevertheless united by a certain natural bond.

An honor prudently declined often returns with increased luster.

Favor and honor sometimes fall more fitly on those who do not desire them.

The army from Asia introduced a foreign luxury to Rome; it was then the meals began to require more dishes and more expenditure . . . the cook, who had up to that time been employed as a slave of low price, become dear: what had been nothing but a metier was elevated to an art.