"For the great majority of mankind are satisfied with appearances, as though they were realities, and are often even more influenced by the things that seem than by those that are."

"The vulgar are always taken by appearances and by the outcome of a thing; and in the world there are only the vulgar."

"The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him."

"Men must either be caressed or annihilated; they will revenge themselves for slight wrongs, but not for great ones."

"The people, when they have a good leader, are not afraid to fight; and if they are not afraid, they are strong."