38 Quotes by Robert Walpole

I will not attempt to deny the reasonableness and necessity of a party war; but in carrying on that war all principles and rules of justice should not be departed from.

It is but refusing to gratify an unreasonable or an insolent demand, and up starts a patriot.

Gentlemen have talked a great deal of patriotism. A venerable word, when duly practiced.

The very idea of true patriotism is lost, and the term has been prostituted to the very worst of purposes. A patriot, sir! Why, patriots spring up like mushrooms!

I have never been afraid of making patriots; but I disdain and despise all their efforts.

Oh, do not read history, for that I know must be false.

And here a most heinous charge is made, that the nation has been burdened with unnecessary expenses for the sole purpose of preventing the discharge of our debts and the abolition of taxes.

Have I given any symptoms of an avaricious disposition? Have I obtained any grants from the crown since I have been placed at the head of the treasury? Has my conduct been different from that which others in the same station would have followed?

No expense has been incurred but what has been approved of and provided for by Parliament.