Pagina 111 di 310

I conclude, therefore, that no principality is secure without

having its own forces; on the contrary, it is entirely dependent

on good fortune, not having the valour which in adversity would

defend it. And it has always been the opinion and judgment of

wise men that nothing can be so uncertain or unstable as fame or

power not founded on its own strength. And one's own forces are

those which are composed either of subjects, citizens, or

dependents; all others are mercenaries or auxiliaries. And the

way to make ready one's own forces will be easily found if the

rules suggested by me shall be reflected upon, and if one will

consider how Philip, the father of Alexander the Great, and many

republics and princes have armed and organized themselves, to

which rules I entirely commit myself.

CHAPTER XIV. THAT WHICH CONCERNS A PRINCE ON THE SUBJECT OF THE

ART OF WAR