The repose of nations cannot be secure without arms, armies cannot be maintained without pay, nor can the pay be produced without taxes
TacitusMen are more ready to repay an injury than a benefit, because gratitude is a burden and revenge a pleasure
TacitusThe solitude lends much appeal, because a sea without a harbour surrounds it. Even a modest boat can find few anchorage, and nobody can go ashore unnoticed by the guards. Its winter is mild because it is enclosed by a range of mountains which keeps out the fierce temperature; its summer is unequal. The open sea is very pleasant and it has a view of a beautiful bay.
Tacitus