Chapter 26 Summary

The time is ripe for a prudent and resourceful man to win honor for himself and the well-being of Italy. The Israelites had to be enslaved so that Moses could demonstrate his resourcefulness. The Persians had to be oppressed before Cyrus could manifest his greatness of spirit. Italy, then, has been ravaged so that someone can heal her wounds and build her up.

There is no one more likely than the Medici family to step into such a role. The task will not be difficult if one will keep in mind the examples of the great men from the past. Their task was no easier than the one that Italy presents. They had even less opportunity than the one enjoyed presently by the Medici family.

It is not surprising that Italy has not achieved greatness before now. The old laws are no good...