But forasmuch as the strength or weakness of a fortress is always meas… — Essays
SAPIR 861
But forasmuch as the strength or weakness of a fortress is always measured by the estimate and counterpoise of the forces that attack it --for a man might reasonably enough despise two culverins, that would be a madman to abide a battery of thirty pieces of cannon--where also the greatness of the prince who is master of the field, his reputation, and the respect that is due unto him, are also put into the balance, there is danger that the balance be pressed too much in that direction. And it may happen that a man is possessed with so great an opinion of himself and his power, that thinking it unreasonable any place should dare to shut its gates against him, he puts all to the sword where he meets with any opposition, whilst his fortune continues; as is plain in the fierce and arrogant forms of summoning towns and denouncing war, savouring so much of barbarian pride and insolence, in use
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