If Washington were President now, he would have to learn our ways or lose his next election. Only fools and theorists imagine that our society can be handled with gloves or long poles. One must make one's self a part of it. If virtue won't answer our purpose, we must use vice, or our opponents will put us out of office, and this was as true in Washington's day as it is now, and always will be.
Henry AdamsI have written too much history to have faith in it; and if anyone thinks I'm wrong, I am inclined to agree with him.
Henry AdamsAs for piracy, I love to be pirated. It is the greatest compliment an author can have. The wholesale piracy of Democracy was the single real triumph of my life. Anyone may steal what he likes from me.
Henry AdamsThe less a tourist knows, the fewer mistakes he need make, for he will not expect himself to explain ignorance.
Henry Adams