Though the object of being a Great Power is to be able to fight a Great War, the only way of remaining a Great Power is not to fight one.

History is not a catalogue but...a convincing version of events.

Bismarck fought 'necessary' wars and killed thousands, the idealists of the twentieth century fight 'just' wars and kill millions.

History is the great propagator of doubt.

Manchester has everything but good looks..., the only place in England which escapes our characteristic vice of snobbery.

The great armies, accumulated to provide security and preserve the peace, carried the nations to war by their own weight.

Perfect soldier, perfect gentleman never gave offence to anyone not even the enemy.