Augustus gradually increased his powers, taking over those of the senate, the executives and the laws. The aristocracy received wealth and position in proportion to their willingness to accept slavery. The state had been transformed, and the old Roman character gone for ever. Equality among citizens was completely abandoned. All now waited on the imperial command.

By general consent, he would have been capable of ruling, had he not ruled.

Laws were most numerous when the commonwealth was most corrupt

In careless ignorance they think it civilization, when in reality it is a portion of their slavery...To ravage, to slaughter, to usurp under false pretenses, they call empire; and where they make a desert, they call it peace.

The lust of fame is the last that a wise man shakes off.

They make solitude, which they call peace.

Posterity allows to every man his true value and proper honours.