Transitions of this kind exhibit a Nation under the government of temper, instead of a fixed and steady principle; and having once committed itself, however rashly, it feels itself urged along to justify by continuance its first proceeding.
From "Rights of Man," Paine critiques nations that act based on emotion rather than consistent principles, leading to self-justification.
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The Aristocracy had hitherto opposed the despotism of the Court, and affected the language of patriotism; but it opposed it as its rival (as the English Barons opposed King John) and it now opposed the nation from the same motives.
Many of the facts were in themselves principles; such as the declaration of American Independence, and the treaty of alliance between France and America, which recognised the natural rights of man, and justified resistance to oppression.
The American constitutions were to liberty what a grammar is to language: they define its parts of speech, and practically construct them into syntax.
The more it is struck the more sparks it will emit; and the fear is it will not be struck enough.