The most divine light only shineth on those minds which are purged from all worldly dross and human uncleanliness.

There is nothing more becoming any wise man, than to make choice of friends, for by them thou shalt be judged what thou art: let them therefore be wise and virtuous, and none of those that follow thee for gain; but make election rather of thy betters, than thy inferiors.

Flatterers are the worst kind of traitors, for they will strengthen thy imperfections, encourage thee in all evils, correct thee in nothing, but so shadow and paint thy follies and vices as thou shalt never, by their will, discover good from evil, or vice from virtue.

Fain would I climb, yet fear I to fall.

The necessity of war, which among human actions is the most lawless, hath some kind of affinity with the necessity of law.

Men endure the losses that befall them by mere casualty with more patience than the damages they sustain by injustice.

Take special care that thou never trust any friend or servant with any matter that may endanger thine estate; for so shalt thou make thyself a bond-slave to him that thou trustest, and leave thyself always to his mercy.