“ Yet moderation, De Comines, moderation in success, is—no one knows better than you—necessary to its ultimate advantage. ”
Walter Scott, Quentin Durward (1823). copy citation
| Author | Walter Scott |
|---|---|
| Source | Quentin Durward |
| Topic | success moderation |
| Date | 1823 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | |
| Weblink | https://www.gutenberg.org/files/7853/7853-h/7853-h.htm |
Context
““ Comines, Comines! ” said Louis, arising again, and pacing the room in a pensive manner, “ this is a dreadful lesson on the text Vae victis! [woe to the vanquished!] —You cannot mean that the Duke will insist on all these hard conditions? ” “ At least I would have your Majesty be in a condition to discuss them all. ” Yet moderation, De Comines, moderation in success, is—no one knows better than you—necessary to its ultimate advantage. “ So please your Majesty, the merit of moderation is, I have observed, most apt to be extolled by the losing party. The winner holds in more esteem the prudence which calls on him not to leave an opportunity unimproved. ””
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