The particular aspect of history which both attracts and benefits its readers is the examination of causes and the capacity, which is the reward of this study, to decide in each case the best policy to follow. Now in all political situations we must understand that the principle factor which makes for success or failure is the form of a state's constitution: it is from this source, as if from a fountainhead, that all designs and plans of action not only originate but reach their fulfillment.

Knowing how to win is the first step. We must also know how to make use of our victories.

A good general not only sees the way to victory; he also knows when victory is impossible.

If history is deprived of the Truth, we are left with nothing but an idle, unprofitable tale.

When the ancients said a work well begun was half done, they meant to impress the importance of always endeavoring to make a good beginning.

From this I conclude that the best education for the situations of actual life consists of the experience we acquire from the study of serious history. For it is history alone which without causing us harm enables us to judge what is the best course in any situation or circumstance.

For peace, with justice and honor, is the fairest and most profitable of possessions, but with disgrace and shameful cowardice, it is the most infamous and harmful of all.