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

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

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... 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 detect...more

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Again, a Prince should show himself a patron of merit, and should honour those who excel in every art. He ought accordingly to encourage his subjects ...more

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... 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...

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... If instead of colonies you send troops, the cost is vastly greater, and the whole revenues of the country are spent in guarding it so that the gai...more