It is the nature of ambition to make men liars and cheats, to hide the truth in their breasts, and show, like jugglers, another thing in their mouths, to cut all friendships and enmities to the measure of their own interest, and to make a good countenance without the help of good will.
To have the same desires and the same aversion is assuredly a firm bond of friendship.
The firmest friendship is based on an identity of likes and dislikes.
Neither the army nor the treasury, but friends, are the true supports of the throne; for friends cannot be collected by force of arms, nor purchased with money; they are the offspring of kindness and sincerity.
To like and dislike the same things that is indeed true friendship.
To desire the same things and to reject the same things, constitutes true friendship. [Lat., Idem velle et idem nolle ea demum firma amicitia est.]
All who consult on doubtful matters, should be void of hatred, friendship, anger, and pity.
