Political Quotes

Edmund Burke: It is known to them, that, when this proof is in its greatest perfection, that is, when it is most abundant in…

On the record
It is known to them, that, when this proof is in its greatest perfection, that is, when it is most abundant in circumstances, it is much superior to positive proof; and for this we have the authority of the learned judge who presided at the trial of Captain Donellan.
Said by
Edmund Burke

Editor's note · Context

Burke argues that abundant circumstantial evidence can surpass positive proof in legal trials.

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