And the prince who has relied solely on their words, without making other preparations, is ruined, for the friendship which is gained by purchase and not through grandeur and nobility of spirit is merited but is not secured, and at times is not to be had.

It is much better to tempt fortune where it can favor you than to see your certain ruin by not tempting it.

Benefits should be conferred gradually; and in that way they will taste better.

He who builds on the people, builds on the mud

The nature of man is such that people consider themselves put under an obligation as much by the benefits they confer as by those they receive.

Wars begin when you will, but they do not end when you please.

Although deceit is detestable in all other things, yet in the conduct of war it is laudable and honorable; and a commander who vanquishes an enemy by stratagem is equally praised with one who gains victory by force.