The mind is a matter over every kind of fortune; itself acts in both ways, being the cause of its own happiness and misery.

Who-only let him be a man and intent upon honor-is not eager for the honorable ordeal and prompt to assume perilous duties? To what energetic man is not idleness a punishment?

Life is long if you know how to use it.

There is no evil that does not promise inducements. Avarice promises money; luxury, a varied assortment of pleasures; ambition, a purple robe and applause. Vices tempt you by the rewards they offer.

It is impossible to imagine anything which better becomes a ruler than mercy.

If virtue precede us every step will be safe.

Unfamiliarity lends weight to misfortune, and there was never a man whose grief was not heightened by surprise.