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

Fear is secured by a dread of punishment.

Always assume incompetence before looking for conspiracy.

All the States and Governments by which men are or ever have been ruled, have been and are either Republics or Princedoms.

To keep your actions and your plans secret always has been a very good thing . .. Marcus Crassus said to one who asked him when he was going to move the army: 'Do you believe that you will be the only one not to hear the trumpet?

An armed republic submits less easily to the rule of one of its citizens than a republic armed by foreign forces. Rome and Sparta were for many centuries well armed and free. The Swiss are well armed and enjoy great freedom. Among other evils caused by being disarmed, it renders you contemptible. It is not reasonable to suppose that one who is armed will obey willingly one who is unarmed; or that any unarmed man will remain safe among armed servants.

Men ought either to be well treated, or crushed.