For a sensible man ought to consider that Fortune’s favour is
variable and her wheel is ever turning … the Prince must take
care, and always have imprinted on his mind the fact that
although the merciful Creator … is long-suffering and patient
… He is likewise severe in executing punishment and
vengeance upon the stubborn and wilful, and usually begins to
exact that punishment here on earth.
GERALD OF WALES,
THE CONQUEST OF IRELAND