The progress of a war is often as ruinous to individuals, as the issue of it is to a nation; and it is not only necessary that our forces be such that we be conquerors in the end, but that by timely exertions we be secure in the interim.
From "The American Crisis," Paine reflects on the destructive nature of war for both individuals and nations, emphasizing the need for both ultimate victory and interim security.
Share
More from Thomas Paine
It serves to keep up deceitful expectations which prevent people from looking into the defects and abuses of government.
Why may we not suppose, that the great Father of all is pleased with variety of devotion; and that the greatest offence we can act, is that by which we seek to torment and render each other miserable?
Peace, which costs nothing, is attended with infinitely more advantage, than any victory with all its expense.
Reason and discussion will soon bring things right, however wrong they may begin.