“A return to first principles in a republic is sometimes caused by the simple virtues of one man. His good example has such an influence that the good men strive to imitate him, and the wicked are ashamed to lead a life so contrary to his example.”

“A wise ruler ought never to keep faith when by doing so it would be against his interests.”

“Results are often obtained by impetuosity and daring which could never have been obtained by ordinary methods.”

“A sign of intelligence is an awareness of one's own ignorance.”

“He who wishes to be obeyed must know how to command.”

“Farewell, fair cruelty.”

“But thou, contracted to thine own bright eyes, Feed'st thy light's flame with self-substantial fuel, Making a famine where abundance lies, Thyself thy foe, to thy sweet self too cruel.”

“Be wise as thou art cruel, do not press My tongue-tied patience with too much disdain: Lest sorrow lend me words and words express, The manner of my pity-wanting pain.”