John Morley: “Nobody who cares for ease or mental composure would seek public life?”

No: not at all; because there is so much, I will not say of random variety, but there is so much independent use of mind upon the facts that we have to deal with, that I listen with endless edification and instruction.

But they were barren of any institutions by which the country could be governed and kept in prosperity for the future.”(166) This is a statement of the case that biographer and historian alike should ponder.

Is it natural effervescence, or is it deadly fermentation?

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