In the armies and among every ten men there is one of more life, of more heart, or at least of more authority, who with his courage, with words and by example keeps the others firm and disposed to fight.

Wisdom consists of knowing how to distinguish the nature of trouble, and in choosing the lesser evil.

He who becomes a Prince through the favour of the people should always keep on good terms with them; which it is easy for him to do, since all they ask is not to be oppressed

The sinews of war are not gold, but good soldiers.

So in all human affairs one notices, if one examines them closely, that it is impossible to remove one inconvenience without another emerging.

Nothing is of greater importance in time of war than in knowing how to make the best use of a fair opportunity when it is offered.

As all those have shown who have discussed civil institutions, and as every history is full of examples, it is necessary to whoever arranges to found a Republic and establish laws in it, to presuppose that all men are bad and that they will use their malignity of mind every time they have the opportunity.