“ Facts or opinions which are to pass through the hands of so many, to be misconceived by folly in one, and ignorance in another, can hardly have much truth left. ”
Jane Austen, Persuasion (1816). copy citation
| Author | Jane Austen |
|---|---|
| Source | Persuasion |
| Topic | truth ignorance opinion |
| Date | 1816 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | |
| Weblink | http://www.gutenberg.org/files/105/105-h/105-h.htm |
Context
“That was all prior to my coming to Bath. I found them on the most friendly terms when I arrived."
"I know you did; I know it all perfectly, but—" "Indeed, Mrs Smith, we must not expect to get real information in such a line. Facts or opinions which are to pass through the hands of so many, to be misconceived by folly in one, and ignorance in another, can hardly have much truth left."
"Only give me a hearing. You will soon be able to judge of the general credit due, by listening to some particulars which you can yourself immediately contradict or confirm. Nobody supposes that you were his first inducement.” source
"I know you did; I know it all perfectly, but—" "Indeed, Mrs Smith, we must not expect to get real information in such a line. Facts or opinions which are to pass through the hands of so many, to be misconceived by folly in one, and ignorance in another, can hardly have much truth left."
"Only give me a hearing. You will soon be able to judge of the general credit due, by listening to some particulars which you can yourself immediately contradict or confirm. Nobody supposes that you were his first inducement.” source
Meaning and analysis
