"The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him."
"Thus it happens in matters of state; for knowing afar off (which it is only given a prudent man to do) the evils that are brewing, they are easily cured. But when, for want of such knowledge, they are allowed to grow so that everyone can recognize them, there is no longer any remedy to be found."
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Source: Niccolo Machiavelli (2010). “The Prince”, p.93, FastPencil Inc
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