One should never risk one's whole fortune unless supported by one's entire forces.

There should be many judges, for few will always do the will of few.

Ability and perseverance are the weapons of weakness.

You know better than I that in a Republic talent is always suspect. A man attains an elevated position only when his mediocrity prevents him from being a threat to others. And for this reason a democracy is never governed by the most competent, but rather by those whose insignificance will not jeopardize anyone else's self-esteem.

....for friendships that are acquired by a price and not by greatness and nobility of character are purchased but are not owned, and at the proper moment they cannot be spent.

Benefits should be conferred gradually; and in that way they will taste better.

I believe that it is possible for one to praise, without concern, any man after he is dead since every reason and supervision for adulation is lacking.