He writes neither in the character of a Frenchman nor an Englishman, but in the fawning character of that creature known in all countries, and a friend to none--a courtier.
Thomas Paine: “He writes neither in the character of a Frenchman nor an Englishman, but in the fawning character of that creature known…”
Editor's note · Context
From "Rights of Man," Paine sharply criticizes Edmund Burke's stance on the French Revolution by labeling him a self-serving courtier.
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As to what are called national religions, we may, with as much propriety, talk of national Gods.
If, therefore, the good to be obtained be worthy of a passive, rational, and costless revolution, it would be bad policy to prefer waiting for a calamity that should force a violent one.
I do not believe that any two men, on what are called doctrinal points, think alike who think at all.
I have carefully avoided to enlarge upon the subject, because I am inclined to believe that what is called the present ministry, wish to see contentions about religion kept up, to prevent the nation turning its attention to subjects of…