... Physicians tell us of hectic fever, that in its beginning it is easy to cure, but hard to recognize; whereas, after a time, not having been detected and treated at the first, it becomes easy to recognize but impossible to cure. And so it is with State affairs.

... By disarming, you at once give offense, since you show your subjects that you distrust them, either as doubting their courage, or as doubting their fidelity, each of which imputations begets hatred against you.

... On the whole, the best fortress you can have, is in not being hated by your subjects. If they hate you no fortress will save you...

... War is the sole art looked for in one who rules...

... When Princes devote themselves rather to pleasure than to arms, they lose their dominions.