Hastings's assertion, that an inferior servant cannot be coerced, and that they must riot with impunity in the spoils of the people.
Edmund Burke: “Hastings's assertion, that an inferior servant cannot be coerced, and that they must riot with impunity in the spoils of…”
Editor's note · Context
Burke disputes Hastings's claim that lower servants cannot be held accountable for their actions.
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More from Edmund Burke
Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.
But when the leaders choose to make themselves bidders at an auction of popularity, their talents, in the construction of the state, will be of no service.
They come from one who has been no tool of power, no flatterer of greatness, and who in his last acts does not wish to belie the tenor of his life.
Not being illuminated with the light of which the gentlemen of France tell us they have got so abundant a share, they acted under a strong impression of the ignorance and fallibility of mankind.





