Legions and fleets are not such sure bulwarks of imperial power as a numerous family
Valor is of no service, chance rules all, and the bravest often fall by the hands of cowards.
So as you go into battle, remember your ancestors and remember your descendants.
I am my nearest neighbour.
This I hold to be the chief office of history, to rescue virtuous actions from the oblivion to which a want of records would consign them, and that men should feel a dread of being considered infamous in the opinions of posterity, from their depraved expressions and base actions.
In seasons of tumult and discord bad men have most power; mental and moral excellence require peace and quietness.