Unlike the poet, he must be definite and rational; he cannot be allowed to say one thing at one time, and another thing at another--he must know what he is about.

And yet legislation has a poetical or rhetorical element, and must find words which will wing their way to the hearts of men.

Laws must be promulgated before they are put in execution, and mankind must be reasoned with before they are punished.

The legislator, when he promulgates a particular law, will courteously entreat those who are willing to hear his voice.

Upon the rebellious only does the heavy blow descend.