But a law, however venerable be the sanction, cannot suddenly transform the temper of the times . . .

[Every] hour of delay abates the fame and force of the invader, and multiplies the resources of defensive war.

Recluse fanatics have few ideas or sentiments to communicate . . .

Persuasion is the resource of the feeble; and the feeble can seldom persuade . . .

While the Romans languished under the ignominious tyranny of eunuchs and bishops, the praises of Julian were repeated with transport in every part of the empire, except in the palace of Constantius.

[The] penalty of death was abolished in the Roman empire, a law of mercy most delightful to the humane theorist, but of which the practice, in a large and vicious community, is seldom consistent with the public safety.

The distinctions of personal merit and influence, so conspicuous in a republic, so feeble and obscure under a monarchy, were abolished by the despotism of the emperors; who substituted in their room a severe subordination of rank and office, from the titled slaves who were seated on the steps of the throne, to the meanest instruments of arbitrary power.