Edmund Burke: “At no period has the power of France ever appeared with so formidable an aspect.”

But when the leaders choose to make themselves bidders at an auction of popularity, their talents, in the construction of the state, will be of no service.

Of this consolation whoever deprives them deadens their industry, and strikes at the root of all acquisition as of all conservation.

There are some follies which baffle argument, which go beyond ridicule, and which excite no feeling in us but disgust; and therefore I say no more upon it.

But to form a free government, that is, to temper together these opposite elements of liberty and restraint in one consistent work, requires much thought, deep reflection, a sagacious, powerful, and combining mind.