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.

None make a greater show of sorrow than those who are most delighted.

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.

The most seditious is the most cowardly.

Bottling up his malice to be suppressed and brought out with increased violence.

Posterity will pay everyone their due.

Cruelty is fed, not weakened, by tears.