They avowed the most absolute selfishness, the most abject fear of death and pain, with a frankness that would have amazed the Cynics and disgusted the felons of almost any Earthly nation.

There were partial exceptions, but these were to be found exclusively among those in training for what we should call public life, for administrative or judicial duties.

These, though professing no devotion to the interest of others, and little that could be called public spirit, did nevertheless understand that in return for the high rank, the great power, and the liberal remuneration they would enjoy, they were bound to consider primarily the public interest in the performance of their functions--the right of society to just or at least to carefully legal judgment, and diligent efficient administration.

Their feeling, however, was rather professional than personal, the pride of students in the perfection of their art rather than the earnestness of men conscious of grave human responsibilities.
In conversing with the chief of this Faculty, I learned some peculiarities of the system of government with which I was not yet acquainted.

Promotion never depends on those with whom a public servant comes into personal contact, but on those one or two steps above the latter.