This political trait is truly deplorable, and without example. (Vide Appendix D.)
Ferdinand also cloathed himself with the mantle of religion to attack successively Africa, Italy, and France, cherishing always the most extensive projects, and such as were most capable of concentrating the attention of his subjects on the events of his reign. This prince was also most expert in allaying the storms which formed round his head; so that he was able to attain his object without experiencing difficulties on the part of his subjects.
It is also very useful to a prince from time to time to decree punishments, and to distribute rewards which reflect great splendor, and impress themselves strongly on men's minds. Barnabas, Lord of Milan, was in that respect an example worthy of imitation. Those who govern ought in general to strive most anxiously to appear great in all their actions, and to avoid in their affections every thing which may incur the character of weakness and indecision. A prince who does not know how to be altogether eitlier a friend or an enemy, will with difficulty conciliate his subjects. Should two powerful neighbours go to war with each other, he should declare for one of them, without which he will become the prey of the conqueror; and the vanquished being pleased at his ruin, there will remain to him no resource; for the conqueror cannot wish for a doubtful friend,
