That power of the Gods which orders for the good things which are not uniform, and which happen contrary to expectation, is commonly called Fortune, and it is for this reason that the Goddess is especially worshipped in public by cities; for every city consists of elements which are not uniform.

We employ the mind to rule, the body to serve.

It is better to use fair means and fail, than foul and conquer.

For harmony makes small states great, while discord undermines the mightiest empires.

Advise well before you begin, and when you have maturely considered, then act with promptitude.

It is not only spirits who punish the evil, the soul brings itself to judgment: and also it is not right for those who endure for ever to attain everything in a short time: and also, there is need of human virtue. If punishment followed instantly upon sin, men would act justly from fear and have no virtue.

They envy the distinction I have won; let them therefore, envy my toils, my honesty, and the methods by which I gained it.