But if you should take the bond of goodwill out of the universe no house or city could stand, nor would even the tillage of the fields abide. If that statement is not clear, then you may understand how great is the power of friendship and of concord from a consideration of the results of enmity and disagreement. For what house is so strong, or what state so enduring that it cannot be utterly overthrown by animosities and division?

To wonder at nothing when it happens, to consider nothing impossible before it has come to pass.

No one could ever meet death for his country without the hope of immortality.

Friendship is not to be sought for its wages, but because its revenue consists entirely in the love which it implies.

Virtue is increased by the smile of approval; and the love of renown is the greatest incentive to honourable acts.

A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue but the parent of all the other virtues.

Promises are not to be kept, if the keeping of them is to prove harmful to those to whom you have made them.