Stories happen to those who tell them.

Of all manifestations of power, restraint impresses men most.

Mankind are tolerant of the praises of others as long as each hearer thinks that he can do as well or nearly as well himself, but, when the speaker rises above him, jealousy is aroused and he begins to be incredulous.

And where the rewards for merit are greatest, there are found the best citizens.

Wars spring from unseen and generally insignificant causes, the first outbreak being often but an explosion of anger.

Self-control is the chief element in self-respect, and respect of self, in turn, is the chief element in courage.

Athens' biggest worry was the sheer recklessness of its own democratic government. A simple majority of the citizenry, urged on and incensed by clever demagogues, might capriciously send out military forces in unnecessary and exhausting adventures.