Clever policy consists in making nations believe they are free.

Morality has nothing to do with such a man as I am.

Opportunities? I make opportunities.

You would make a ship sail against the winds and currents by lighting a bonfire under her decks? I have no time for such nonsense.

Military despotism represses generous sentiments, priestly tyranny stifles them.

It is only with prudence, sagacity, and much dexterity that great aims are accomplished, and all obstacles surmounted. Otherwise nothing is accomplished.

I love power. But it is as an artist that I love it. I love it as a musician loves his violin, to draw out its sounds and chords and harmonies.