Quote#Politics & Power
What acquaintance have the people at large with the arcana of…
Quote byCharles James Fox · 1749–1806
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: Speech in the House of Commons (25 March 1771), quoted in The Speeches of the Right Honourable Charles James Fox, in the House of Commons. Vol. I (1815), pp. 13–14.
English (original)
What acquaintance have the people at large with the arcana of political rectitude, with the connections of kingdoms, the resources of national strength, the abilities of ministers, or even with their own dispositions? ... I pay no regard whatever to the voice of the people: it is our duty to do what is proper, without considering what may be agreeable.
— Charles James Fox
More from Charles James Fox
There is no man who hates the power of the crown more, or who has a worse opinion of the Person to whom it belongs than I.
It is intolerable that it should be in the power of one blockhead to do so much mischief.
Religion was best understood when least talked of.
Kings, Sir, govern by means of popular assemblies, only because they cannot do without them; to suppose a king fond of that mode of governing, is to suppose a chimera.
Gentlemen, the malicious and groundless Reports which have been spread, make it necessary for me to assure you, that notwithstanding all that has been said, I never have supported, nor ever will support, any Measure which can by any Means …
On speaking to Mr. Fox (who had just received the seals as Secretary of State) on the important event of the day, he said certainly things look very well, but he, meaning the K[ing], will dye soon, and that will be best of all.