I have written my work, not as an essay which is to win the applause of the moment, but as a possession for all time

Don't confuse meaning with truth.

The absence of romance from my history will, I fear, detract somewhat from its interest; but if it be judged useful by those inquirers who desire an exact knowledge of the past as an aid to the interpretation of the future, which in the course of human things must resemble if it does not reflect it, I shall be content. In fine, I have written my work, not as an essay which is to win the applause of the moment, but as a possession for all time.

For men naturally despise those who court them, but respect those who do not give way to them.

Few things are brought to a successful issue by impetuous desire, but most by calm and prudent forethought.

We must remember that one man is much the same as another, and that he is best who is trained in the severest school.

The cause of all these evils was the lust for power arising from greed and ambition; and from these passions proceeded the violence of parties once engaged in contention.