"Hence it is to be remarked that, in seizing a state, the usurper ought to arrange to commit all his cruelties at once, so as not to have to repeat them every day, and thus able to secure men without f…"

"Because there are three ways of holding conquered states that are accustomed to living under their own laws and in freedom: the first is to ruin them, the next is to reside there in person, the third …"

"The innovator has for enemies all those who have done well under the old conditions, and lukewarm defenders in those who may do well under the new."

"Men are always more easily deceived when they are trying to deceive others."

"One who deceives will always find those who allow themselves to be deceived."