An eminent reputation is as dangerous as a bad one.
Keen at the start, but careless at the end.
Traitors are hated even by those whom they prefer.
It is found by experience that admirable laws and right precedents among the good have their origin in the misdeeds of others.
To rob, to ravage, to murder, in their imposing language, are the arts of civil policy. When they have made the world a solitude, they call it peace.
In seasons of tumult and discord bad men have most power; mental and moral excellence require peace and quietness.