No hatred is so bitter as that of near relations.
The desire of glory is the last infirmity cast off even by the wise.
Legions and fleets are not such sure bulwarks of imperial power as a numerous family
A bitter jest, when it comes too near the truth, leaves a sharp sting behind it.
Men are more ready to repay an injury than a benefit, because gratitude is a burden and revenge a pleasure
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.