Political Quotes

Edmund Burke: The discovery of vehement wishes generally frustrates their attainment, and your adversary has gained a great advantage…

On the record
The discovery of vehement wishes generally frustrates their attainment, and your adversary has gained a great advantage over you when he finds you impatient to conclude a treaty.
Said by
Edmund Burke

Editor's note · Context

Burke argues that showing too much eagerness in negotiations can undermine one's position.

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