History will do justice to the intentions of worthy men, but it will be on its guard against their infirmities; it will examine with great strictness of scrutiny whatever appears from a writer in favor of his own cause.
Burke asserts that history will recognize the good intentions of individuals while remaining critical of their flaws.
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More from Edmund Burke
They have not more notes in their song than the cuckoo; though, far from the softness of that harbinger of summer and plenty, their voice is as harsh and as ominous as that of the raven.
I would not exclude alteration neither; but even when I changed, it should be to preserve.
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.
It is the greatest of all possible evils; for it is folly, vice, and madness, without tuition or restraint.
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