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It is impossible for those who follow the other to maintain

themselves.

[2] Mr Burd suggests that this word probably comes near the

modern equivalent of Machiavelli's thought when he speaks of

"crudelta" than the more obvious "cruelties."

Hence it is to be remarked that, in seizing a state, the usurper

ought to examine closely into all those injuries which it is

necessary for him to inflict, and to do them all at one stroke so

as not to have to repeat them daily; and thus by not unsettling

men he will be able to reassure them, and win them to himself by

benefits. He who does otherwise, either from timidity or evil

advice, is always compelled to keep the knife in his hand;

neither can he rely on his subjects, nor can they attach

themselves to him, owing to their continued and repeated wrongs.

For injuries ought to be done all at one time, so that, being

tasted less, they offend less; benefits ought to be given little

by little, so that the flavour of them may last longer.