John Morley: “The cardinal fact for France and for Europe was German unity.”

But we have no right to cast on him any responsibility beyond what is strictly military.

If the idea was the direct gift of heaven, the policy was due to the sagacity and mother-wit of the great ecclesiastical statesmen.

With a few exceptions, a political speech like the manna in the wilderness loses its savour on the second day.

I don't myself believe in artful diplomacy; I have no gift for it.