Tyrants seldom want pretexts.
The tyranny of a multitude is a multiplied tyranny.
Whilst shame keeps its watch, virtue is not wholly extinguished in the heart; nor will moderation be utterly exiled from the minds of tyrants.
Kings will be tyrants from policy, when subjects are rebels from principle.
Many of the greatest tyrants on the records of history have begun their reigns in the fairest manner. But the truth is, this unnatural power corrupts both the heart and the understanding.