Honors achieved far exceed those that are created.
What thou seest, speak of with caution.
In the ideal State laws are few and simple, because they have been derived from certainties. In the corrupt State laws are many and confused, because they have been derived from uncertainties.
To make an empire durable, the magistrates must obey the laws and the people the magistrates.
Wealth I desire to have; but wrongfully to get it, I do not wish.
Often the wicked prosper, while the righteous starve; yet I would never exchange my state for theirs, my virtue for their gold. For mine endures, while riches change their owner every day.