How we live is so different from how we ought to live that he who studies what ought to be done rather than what is done will learn the way to his downfall rather than to his preservation.

Because just as good morals, if they are to be maintained, have need of the laws, so the laws, if they are to be observed, have need of good morals.

....nothing is so unhealthy or unstable as the reputation for power that is not based on one's own power.

Tardiness often robs us opportunity, and the dispatch of our forces.

If the course of human affairs be considered, it will be seen that many things arise against which heaven does not allow us to guard.

For as laws are necessary that good manners be preserved, so there is need of good manners that law may be maintained.

For among other evils caused by being disarmed, it renders you contemptible; which is one of those disgraceful things which a prince must guard against.