People of great ability do not emerge, as a rule, from the happiest background. So far as my own observation goes, I would conclude that ability, although hereditary, is improved by an early measure of adversity and improved again by a later measure of success.

Imagination is essential and it comes first, for without imagination we are aimless.

It is now well known, however, that men enter local politics solely as a result of being unhappily married.

If there is a way to delay an important decision, the good bureaucracy, public or private, will find it.

The smaller the function, the greater the management.

Deliberative bodies become decreasingly effective after they pass five to eight members.

Make the people sovereign and the poor will use the machinery of government to dispossess the rich.