In the struggle between those seeking power there is no middle course.

More faults are often committed while we are trying to oblige than while we are giving offense.

The unknown always passes for the marvellous.

The hatred of those who are near to us is most violent.

The principal office of history I take to be this: to prevent virtuous actions from being forgotten, and that evil words and deeds should fear an infamous reputation with posterity.

So obscure are the greatest events, as some take for granted any hearsay, whatever its source, others turn truth into falsehood, and both errors find encouragement with posterity.

The repose of nations cannot be secure without arms, armies cannot be maintained without pay, nor can the pay be produced without taxes