If someone puts up the argument that King Louis gave the Romagna to Pope Alexander, and the kingdom of Naples to Spain, in order to avoid a war, I would answer as I did before: that you should never let things get out of hand in order to avoid war. You don't avoid such a war, you merely postpone it, to your own disadvantage.
Niccolo Machiavelli...the incredulity of mankind, who do not truly believe in anything new until they have had actual experience of it.
Niccolo MachiavelliTherefore the best fortress is to be found in the love of the people, for although you may have fortresses they will not save you if you are hated by the people.
Niccolo MachiavelliA wise ruler should rely on what is under his own control, not on what is under the control of others.
Niccolo Machiavelli