If the art of war were nothing but the art of avoiding risks, glory would become the prey of mediocre minds.... I have made all the calculations; fate will do the rest.

Military despotism represses generous sentiments, priestly tyranny stifles them.

A battle sometimes decides everything; and sometimes the most trifling thing decides the fate of a battle.

The torment of precautions often exceeds the dangers to be avoided. It is sometimes better to abandon one's self to destiny.

All becomes easy when we follow the current of opinion; it is the ruler of the world.

The first virtue in a soldier is endurance of fatigue; courage is only the second virtue.

Promptly improve your accidents.