Monarchy does not destroy itself the way the despotic state does, but a state of middling size could be swiftly invaded. It therefore has fortifications to defend its borders, and armies to defend its fortifications. The smallest terrain is fought over with art, courage, and determination. Despotic states make incursions upon each other ; only monarchies wage war.

Fortifications belong to monarchies ; despotic states fear having any. They dare entrust them to no one, for no one there loves the state and the prince.