Beware the leader who bangs the drums of war in order to whip the citizenry into a patriotic fervor.

Real Patriots, who may resist the intrigues of the favourite, are liable to become suspected and odious; while its tools and dupes usurp the applause and confidence of the people, to surrender their interests.

The praises of enemies are always to be suspected. A man of honor will not permit himself to be flattered by them, except when they are given after the cessation of hostilities.

Men are more easily governed through their vices than their virtues.

I saw the crown of France laying on the ground, so I picked it up with my sword.

One must change one's tactics every ten years if one wishes to maintain one's superiority.