Thomas Paine: “It would puzzle all the politicians in the universe to conceive what…”

On the recordJanuary 1, 1776

It would puzzle all the politicians in the universe to conceive what you stay for, or why you should have stayed so long.

Said by

Thomas Paine

Source

During the American Revolution, this quote expresses Paine's incredulity at Britain's prolonged and seemingly aimless military engagement in America.

More from Thomas Paine

Jan 1, 1791

The more it is struck the more sparks it will emit; and the fear is it will not be struck enough.

Jan 1, 1791

I know the value of moral instruction, and I have seen the danger of the contrary.

Jan 1, 1791

When it becomes necessary to do anything, the whole heart and soul should go into the measure, or not attempt it.

Jan 1, 1791

The argument changes from hereditary rights to hereditary wisdom; and the question is, Who is the wisest man?

Thomas Paine: “It would puzzle all the politicians in the universe to conceive what you stay for, or why you should have stayed so…”