Pernicious counsels will have the same authority and influence as those which are sound.

For you are mistaken, Lucius Paulus, if you imagine that you will have a less violent contest with Caius Terentius than with Hannibal.

I know not whether the former, your opponent, or the latter, your open enemy, be the more hostile.

With the latter you will have to contend in the field only; with the former, at every place and time.

Hannibal, moreover, you have to oppose with your own horse and foot; while Varro will head your own soldiers against you.
Let Caius Flaminius be absent from your thoughts, even for the omen's sake.