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

One who deceives will always find those who allow themselves to be deceived.

In war, discipline can do more than fury.

We must bear in mind, then, that there is nothing more difficult and dangerous, or more doubtful of success, than an attempt to introduce a new order of things in any state. For the innovator has for enemies all those who derived advantages from the old order of things, whilst those who expect to be benefited by the new institutions will be but lukewarm defenders.

The new ruler must determine all the injuries that he will need to inflict. He must inflict them once and for all.

Impetuosity and audacity often achieve what ordinary means fail to achieve.

An armed republic submits less easily to the rule of one of its citizens than a republic armed by foreign forces. Rome and Sparta were for many centuries well armed and free. The Swiss are well armed and enjoy great freedom. Among other evils caused by being disarmed, it renders you contemptible. It is not reasonable to suppose that one who is armed will obey willingly one who is unarmed; or that any unarmed man will remain safe among armed servants.