is of long duration, or his successor does not resume the genius and energies of the first, the ruin of the state is inevitable[1].” Reflections on Livy, b. 1. ch. 19.
"A prince ought to see the events and occurrences which may be adverse to him; on what men he can rely in the moment of danger, and conduct himself towards them in the manner they would wish to be treated when the danger arises. Every government, and above all, a prince who acts otherwise, grossly deceives himself, especially if he dares to flatter himself that when the danger is at hand he can conciliate the parties by favours, which, instead of preserving him, accelerates his ruin," ch. 32. It is more wise to temporize with, than openly attack an evil which has acquired a degree of consistency. In
- ↑ Let no one imagine, that in speaking of France, I intend England, for we have been blessed with a succession of wise princes. I do not hope that the heir apparent will display all the virtues of his sire, but I can venture to predict that England's ruin will be more remote on his accession to the throne.
