It was not until the age of the Spanish ascendency (latter half of sixteenth century) that Cosimo I.withdrew the young Florentines from their mercantile pursuits and enrolled them in his order of S.Stephen, and that the patricians of Genoa carried daggers inscribed 'for the chastisement of villeins.' The precepts which are laid down for the use of his acquirements and his general conduct, resolve themselves into a strong recommendation of tact and caution.

The courtier must study the nature of his prince, and show the greatest delicacy in approaching him, so as to secure his favor, and to avoid wearying him with importunities.

In tendering his advice he must be modest; but he should make a point of never sacrificing his own liberty of judgment.

To obey his master in dishonorable things would be a derogation from his dignity; and if he discovers any meanness in the character of the prince, it is better to quit his service.[1] A courtier must be careful to create beforehand a favorable opinion of himself in places he intends to visit.

Much stress is laid upon his choice of clothes and the equipment of his servants.