I am persuaded, at the same time, that in the midst of arms you think of peace; that you would regard it as a triumph for yourself, and the greatest blessing you could procure for your country.

Did not Hannibal himself say that a sure peace was more valuable than a hoped-for victory! If truth has extorted this confession from the most warlike man that ever lived, is it not plain that a pacific man ought to prefer peace even to a certain victory?
Who does not know that peace is the greatest of blessings, and that war is the source of all evils?
"Do not deceive yourself; you have to deal with a keen people who know not what it is to be conquered.

Would it not be better to transfer the war to Damascus, to Susa, or to Memphis?
Think besides, that those whom you are going to attack are your brothers.

At Thebes, of old, two brothers fought to their mutual destruction.

Must Italy renew, in our days, so atrocious a spectacle?
"Let us examine what may be the results of this war.