I was altogether an involuntary instrument, and obliged to execute every evil which that system contained." This is the line of conduct your Lordships are called to decide upon.
Edmund Burke: “I was altogether an involuntary instrument, and obliged to execute every evil which that system contained." This is the…”
Editor's note · Context
Burke describes himself as an unwilling participant in executing the wrongs of a corrupt system.
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They look upon the legal hereditary succession of their crown as among their rights, not as among their wrongs,--as a benefit, not as a grievance,--as a security for their liberty, not as a badge of servitude.
Those who are servants in name, as well as in effect, do not like to be told of their situation, their duty, and their obligations.
If kings who did not owe their crown to the choice of their people had no title to make laws, what will become of the statute De tallagio non concedendo? of the Petition of Right? of the act of Habeas Corpus?
Their objects would be enlarged with their elevation; but their disposition, and habits, and mode of accomplishing their designs must remain the same.





