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.

In the struggle between those seeking power there is no middle course.

Kindness, so far as we can return it, is agreeable.

There are odious virtues; such as inflexible severity, and an integrity that accepts of no favor.

The task of history is to hold out for reprobation every evil word and deed, and to hold out for praise every great and noble word and deed.

Fear is not in the habit of speaking truth.

Reason and calm judgment, the qualities specially belonging to a leader.