Every little advantage is of great moment when men have to come to blows.

He who has once begun to live by rapine always finds reasons for taking what is not his.

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.

Human beings remain constant in their methods of conduct.

For as laws are necessary that good manners be preserved, so there is need of good manners that law may be maintained.

Appear as you may wish to be

Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times. This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results.