Many have dreamed up republics and principalities that have never in truth been known to exist; the gulf between how one should live and how one does live is so wide that a man who neglects what is actually done for what should be done learns the way to self-destruction rather than self-preservation.

They have not any difficulties on the way up because they fly, but they have many when they reach the summit.

The one who adapts his policy to the times prospers, and likewise that the one whose policy clashes with the demands of the times does not.

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?

The sinews of war are not gold, but good soldiers.

A prince never lacks legitimate reasons to break his promise.

The peasant wants only to be left alone to prosper in peace.