Book V.
Chap. 12, 13, & 14.
CHAP. XII.
The same subject continued.
LET us not look for magnanimity in despotic governments; the prince cannot impart a grandeur which he has not himself: with him there is no such thing as glory.
It is in monarchies we see the subjects around the prince, receiving the influence of his beams; there it is that each person filling, as it were, a larger space, is capable of exercising those virtues which adorn the soul, not with independence, but with grandeur.
CHAP. XIII.
An idea of despotic Power.
WHEN the savages of Louisiana are desirous of fruit, they cut the tree to the root, and gather the fruit[1]. This is an emblem of despotic government.
CHAP. XIV.
In what manner the Laws are relative to the Principles of despotic Government.
THE principle of despotic government is fear; but a timid, ignorant, and faint-spirited people have no occasion for a great number of laws.
Every thing ought to depend here on two or three ideas; therefore there is no necessity that any new notions should be added. When we want to break a horse, we take care not to let him change
- ↑ Edifying letters 11. coll. p. 315.
