There is in it a secret power which is always eager, which is generally obstinate, which is often wrong, which rules Ministers more than they know themselves, which overpowers them much more than the public believe, which is irresponsible because it is inscrutable, which cannot be prevented because it cannot be seen.
Bagehot describes the hidden and often uncontrollable influences that shape political leadership and decision-making.
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But as soon as the House met, Lord Thurlow became the greatest.
The power of free interchange of ideas being wanting, the ideas themselves were barren.
But all men heed great results, and a change of Government is a great result.
But, above all things, they were frightened of 'the world;' the spectacle of nature filled them with awe and dread.
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