The forces of adversaries are more diminished by the loss of those who flee than of those who are killed.
Niccolo MachiavelliIt should be borne in mind that there is nothing more difficult to arrange, more doubtful of success, and more dangerous to carry through than initiating changes. The innovator makes enemies of all those who prospered under the old order, and only lukewarm support is forthcoming from those who would prosper under the new. Their support is lukewarm ... partly because men are generally incredulous, never really trusting new things unless they have tested them by experience.
Niccolo MachiavelliWhen they remain in garrison, soldiers are maintained with fear and punishment; when they are then led to war, with hope and reward.
Niccolo MachiavelliHe who blinded by ambition, raises himself to a position whence he cannot mount higher, must thereafter fall with the greatest loss.
Niccolo Machiavelli