第183页 / 共310页

A prince is also respected when he is either a true friend or a

downright enemy, that is to say, when, without any reservation,

he declares himself in favour of one party against the other;

which course will always be more advantageous than standing

neutral; because if two of your powerful neighbours come to

blows, they are of such a character that, if one of them

conquers, you have either to fear him or not. In either case it

will always be more advantageous for you to declare yourself and

to make war strenuously; because, in the first case, if you do

not declare yourself, you will invariably fall a prey to the

conqueror, to the pleasure and satisfaction of him who has been

conquered, and you will have no reasons to offer, nor anything to

protect or to shelter you. Because he who conquers does not want

doubtful friends who will not aid him in the time of trial; and

he who loses will not harbour you because you did not willingly,

sword in hand, court his fate.