ABSTRACT
It is difficult to simplify the tortuous politics of another era. The shifting bases of power, the different pressures on human beings battling through their lives, lend different emphasis to abstract ideas. Politicians writing their reminiscences can take an over-optimistic view of their own motives. Moments when they have sunk their nobler sentiments without trace, or much regret, to secure governmental posts are conveniently forgotten. Speeches which they made when moved by spite or envy become perorations in the cause of liberty. Wrong policies which may have been conceived after a drinking bout become mistakes caused by the pusillanimity of others. The cowardice of political friends becomes prudence, while the prudence of foes becomes blindness and crass folly.
