One should never permit a disorder to persist in order to avoid a war, for wars cannot be avoided and can only be deferred to the advantage of others.

If an injury has to be done to a man it should be so severe that his vengeance need not be feared.

Impetuosity and audacity often achieve what ordinary means fail to achieve.

There is no surer sign of decay in a country than to see the rites of religion held in contempt.

Thus it happens in matters of state; for knowing afar off (which it is only given a prudent man to do) the evils that are brewing, they are easily cured. But when, for want of such knowledge, they are allowed to grow so that everyone can recognize them, there is no longer any remedy to be found.

For the mob is always impressed by appearances and by results, and the world is composed of the mob.

Power is the pivot on which everything hinges. He who has the power is always right; the weaker is always wrong.