The whole history of civilization is strewn with creeds and institutions which were invaluable at first, and deadly afterwards.

One of the greatest pains to human nature is the pain of a new idea.

Dullness in matters of government is a good sign, and not a bad one - in particular, dullness in parliamentary government is a test of its excellence, an indication of its success.

So long as war is the main business of nations, temporary despotism - despotism during the campaign - is indispensable.