Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver; and adulation is not of more service to the people than to kings.
Edmund BurkeBut a good patriot, and a true politician, always considers how he shall make the most of the existing materials of his country. A disposition, to preserve, and an ability to improve, taken together, would be my standard of a statesman. Everything else is vulgar in the conception, perilous in the execution.
Edmund BurkeIn their nomination to office they will not appoint to the exercise of authority as to a pitiful job, but as to a holy function.
Edmund Burke