In daring there may still be wisdom, and prudence as well, only they are estimated by a different standard of value.
23.

WAR IS ALWAYS A SERIOUS MEANS FOR A SERIOUS OBJECT.

ITS MORE PARTICULAR DEFINITION.
Such is War; such the Commander who conducts it; such the theory which rules it.

But War is no pastime; no mere passion for venturing and winning; no work of a free enthusiasm: it is a serious means for a serious object.

All that appearance which it wears from the varying hues of fortune, all that it assimilates into itself of the oscillations of passion, of courage, of imagination, of enthusiasm, are only particular properties of this means.
The War of a community--of whole Nations, and particularly of civilised Nations--always starts from a political condition, and is called forth by a political motive.