Pagina 185 di 310

But when a prince declares himself gallantly in favour of one

side, if the party with whom he allies himself conquers, although

the victor may be powerful and may have him at his mercy, yet he

is indebted to him, and there is established a bond of amity; and

men are never so shameless as to become a monument of ingratitude

by oppressing you. Victories after all are never so complete that

the victor must not show some regard, especially to justice. But

if he with whom you ally yourself loses, you may be sheltered by

him, and whilst he is able he may aid you, and you become

companions on a fortune that may rise again.