Patriotism is a word which represents a noble idea.

Machiavelli is right: one always must live with one's friends with the idea that they may turn into one's enemies. He should have said, with everyone.

Orders and decorations are necessary in order to dazzle the people.

Democracy may become frenzied, but it has feelings and can be moved. As for aristocracy, it is always cold and never forgives.

The most difficult art is not in the choice of men, but in giving to the men chosen the highest service of which they are capable.

When I give a minister an order, I leave it to him to find the means to carry it out.

There is no such thing as an accident, only a failure to recognise the hand of fate