Firmness in decision is often merely a form of stupidity. It indicates an inability to think the same thing out twice.

Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats.

Hanging one scoundrel, it appears, does not deter the next. Well, what of it? The first one is at least disposed of.

Democracy is the pathetic belief in the wisdom of collective ignorance.