Tacitus

We see many who are struggling against adversity who are happy, and more although abounding in wealth, who are wretched.

Many who seem to be struggling with adversity are happy; many, amid great affluence, are utterly miserable.

Valor is of no service, chance rules all, and the bravest often fall by the hands of cowards.

Fear is not in the habit of speaking truth; when perfect sincerity is expected, perfect freedom must be allowed; nor has anyone who is apt to be angry when he hears the truth any cause to wonder that he does not hear it.

All things atrocious and shameless flock from all parts to Rome.

Those in supreme power always suspect and hate their next heir.

Old things are always in good repute, present things in disfavor.

Love of fame is the last thing even learned men can bear to be parted from.

Things forbidden have a secret charm.

All enterprises that are entered into with indiscreet zeal may be pursued with great vigor at first, but are sure to collapse in the end.

The desire for safety stands against every great and noble enterprise.

Prosperity is the measure or touchstone of virtue, for it is less difficult to bear misfortune than to remain uncorrupted by pleasure.