In this state of dangerous relaxation, exposed to the poisonous infusions of the enemy, and having no common danger to attract our attention, we were extinguishing, by stages, the ardor we began with, and surrendering by piece-meal the virtue that defended us.
Paine warns in "The American Crisis" about the dangers of complacency, which can erode national ardor and virtue.
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I know the value of moral instruction, and I have seen the danger of the contrary.
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