Legions and fleets are not such sure bulwarks of imperial power as a numerous family
TACITUSCassius and Brutus were the more distinguished for that very circumstance that their portraits were absent.
More Tacitus Quotes
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Remedies are more tardy in their operation than diseases.
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Truth is confirmed by inspection and delay; falsehood by haste and uncertainty.
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In private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
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Lust of power is the most flagrant of all the passions.
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By punishing men of talent we confirm their authority.
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The repose of nations cannot be secure without arms, armies cannot be maintained without pay, nor can the pay be produced without taxes
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The powerful hold in deep remembrance an ill-timed pleasantry. [Lat., Facetiarum apud praepotentes in longum memoria est.]
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Crime succeeds by sudden despatch; honest counsels gain vigor by delay.
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We see many who are struggling against adversity who are happy, and more although abounding in wealth, who are wretched.
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Zealous in the commencement, careless in the end.
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Reason and calm judgment, the qualities specially belonging to a leader.
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We are corrupted by good fortune. [Lat., Felicitate corrumpimur.]
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Those in supreme power always suspect and hate their next heir.
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Traitors are hated even by those whom they prefer.
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The brave and bold persist even against fortune; the timid and cowardly rush to despair though fear alone.
TACITUS






