They wonder much to hear that gold, which in itself is so useless a thing, should be everywhere so much esteemed, that even men for whom it was made, and by whom it has its value, should yet be thought of less value than it is.

In the first place, most princes apply themselves to the arts of war, in which I have neither ability nor interest, instead of to the good arts of peace. They are generally more set on acquiring new kingdoms by hook or by crook than on governing well those that they already have.

The most part of all princes have more delight in warlike manners and feats of chivalry than in the good feats of peace.

Anyone who campaigns for public office becomes disqualified for holding any office at all.

It is only natural, of course, that each man should think his own opinions best: the crow loves his fledgling, and the ape his cub.

What part soever you take upon you, play that as well as you can and make the best of it.

They wonder much to hear that gold, which in itself is so useless a thing, should be everywhere so much esteemed, that even men for whom it was made, and by whom it has its value, should yet be thought of less value than it is.