The one who adapts his policy to the times prospers, and likewise that the one whose policy clashes with the demands of the times does not.

Men may second fortune, but they cannot thwart her.

When they remain in garrison, soldiers are maintained with fear and punishment; when they are then led to war, with hope and reward.

Of mankind we may say in general they are fickle, hypocritical, and greedy of gain.

The unarmed man is not just defenseless - he is also contemptible.

....it cannot be called ingenuity to kill one's fellow citizens, to betray friends, to be without faith, without mercy, without religion; by these means one can aquire power but not glory.

Severities should be dealt out all at once, so that their suddenness may give less offense; benefits ought to be handed ought drop by drop, so that they may be relished the more.