As far as the stars are from the earth, and as different as fire is from water, so much do self-interest and integrity differ.
Neither side is guiltless if its adversary is appointed judge.
Let him leave the imperial court, who wishes to be virtuous. Virtue and absolute power cannot coexist.
The mere apprehension of a coming evil has put many into a situation of the utmost danger.
To strictest justice many ills belong, And honesty is often in the wrong.
Some men by ancestry are only the shadow of a mighty name.