Dear Lorenzo de' Medici,
If you want to be an effective ruler, don't put too much trust in foreign powers, your immediate subordinates, mercenary armies, or your own people. In fact, don't trust anyone. It is better to be feared than loved. Its far better to be stingy than generous as long as you can dole out rewards from time to time. Breaking promises is okay, and can usually be justified . . . the ends justify the means. Don't inspire hatred of yourself by seizing your own people's goods and land, or by over-taxing them. Don't count on fortresses to save you when things go wrong. Listen to your close advisors, but avoid taking unasked for advice from everyone. It makes you look weak. Avoid flatterers at all costs. It's generally better to be impulsive than cautious. Oh, and, if you end up using this advice to conquer Italy, is there any way you could give me a job?
Sincerely,
Niccolo Machiavelli
