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The Essays or Counsels, Civil and Moral

Francis Bacon · c. 1597–1612 (main composition/expansion of the Essays) primary

passage 54 of 99 · (54/99)

in brief
He continues discussing Roman triumphs—honor for generals, spoils for the treasury, and donatives to the army—and concludes that rulers can deliberately sow greatness through lasting institutions.

to themselves, and their sons, for such wars as they did achieve in person; and left only, for wars achieved by subjects, some triumphal garments and ensigns to the general.

To conclude: no man can by care taking (as the Scripture saith) add a cubit to his stature, in this little model of a man's body; but in the great frame of kingdoms and commonwealths, it is in the power of princes or estates, to add amplitude and greatness to their kingdoms; for by introducing such ordinances, constitutions, and customs, as we have now touched, they may sow greatness to their posterity and succession. But these things are commonly not observed, but left to take their chance.

Of Regiment Of Health

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topics: assemblies, councils, and senates · conquest, plunder, and captives · fate, destiny, and necessity

The Essays or Counsels, Civil and Moral · Francis Bacon · 1597–1612