If you give way, you will instantly have to meet some greater demand, as having been frightened into obedience in the first instance; while a firm refusal will make them clearly understand that they must treat you more as equals.
ThucydidesThey whose minds are least sensitive to calamity, and whose hands are most quick to meet it, are the greatest men and the greatest communities.
ThucydidesMost people, in fact, will not take the trouble in finding out the truth, but are much more inclined to accept the first story they hear.
ThucydidesIn practice we always base our preparations against an enemy on the assumption that his plans are good; indeed, it is right to rest our hopes not on a belief in his blunders, but on the soundness of our provisions. Nor ought we to believe that there is much difference between man and man, but to think that the superiority lies with him who is reared in the severest school.
Thucydides