The wise know that foolish legislation is a ropeof sand which perishes in the twisting; that theState must follow and not lead the characterand progress of the citizen; the strongest usurperis quickly got rid of; and they only who build onIdeas, build for eternity; and that the form ofgovernment which prevails is the expression ofwhat cultivation exists in the population whichpermits it. The law is only a memorandum. Weare superstitious, and esteem the statute somewhat;so much life as it has in the character ofliving men is its force.
EMERSON: Politics.