I have nothing but contempt for the kind of governor who is afraid, for whatever reason, to follow the course that he knows is best for the State; and as for the man who sets private friendship above the public welfare – I have no use for him, either.

The speaker declares contempt for any ruler too afraid to follow what they know is best for the state, and equal disregard for anyone who puts personal friendship above the public good. Both timidity and misplaced loyalty are condemned as failures of duty to the community.

Context reviewed 29 September 2026