Souls that have lived in virtue are in general happy, and when separated from the irrational part of their nature, and made clean from all matter, have communion with the gods and join them in the governing of the whole world. Yet even if none of this happiness fell to their lot, virtue itself, and the joy and glory of virtue, and the life that is subject to no grief and no master are enough to make happy those who have set themselves to live according to virtue and have achieved it.

In my opinion, he only may be truly said to live and enjoy his being who is engaged in some laudable pursuit, and acquires a name by some illustrious action, or useful art.

The renown which riches or beauty confer is fleeting and frail mental excellence is a splendid and lasting possession.

Neither the army nor the treasury, but friends, are the true supports of the throne; for friends cannot be collected by force of arms, nor purchased with money; they are the offspring of kindness and sincerity.

It is sweet to surve one country by deeds, and it is not absurd to surve her by words.

Deliberate before you begin; but, having carefully done so, execute with vigour.

To have the same desires and the same aversion is assuredly a firm bond of friendship.