The desire for fame is the last weakness wise men put off.
The desire for glory clings even to the best men longer than any other passion.
In private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
Not because of an extraordinary talent did he succeed, but because he had a capacity of a level for business and not above it.
Things forbidden have a secret charm.
Even war is better than a wretched peace.
Candor and generosity, unless tempered by due moderation, lead to ruin.
Truth is confirmed by inspection and delay; falsehood by haste and uncertainty.
Victor and vanquished never unite in substantial agreement.
It is of eloquence as of a flame; it requires matter to feed it, motion to excite it, and it brightens as it burns.