People
Here also is to be seen in constant whirl the balance-wheel, such as it is, of the most complicated political machine on earth; and here may be best appreciated the working and the value of the constitution.
— Alexander Mackay • on Washington, D.C., Travels in the United States in 1846–1847
Behind the line May contain spoilers.
Our reading
An editorial interpretation.
The writer describes a place where a vast, intricate political machine can be watched in motion, with a balance-wheel spinning constantly at its center. It's also the best spot, they say, for judging how the constitution actually works and what it's worth.
Context reviewed