It has always been the opinion and judgment of wise men that nothing can be so uncertain as fame or power not founded on its own strength.

For one change always leaves a dovetail into which another will fit.

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.

For, besides what has been said, it should be borne in mind that the temper of the multitude is fickle, and that while it is easy to persuade them of a thing, it is hard to fix them in that persuasion

Men are so simple of mind, and so much dominated by their immediate needs, that a deceitful man will always find plenty who are ready to be deceived.

Present wars impoverish the lords that win as much as those that lose.

Human beings remain constant in their methods of conduct.