"An enthusiast broods over the oppression of a people till he fancies himself commissioned by Heaven to liberate them. He ventures the attempt, which ends in little else than his own execution"

This quote by George Haven Putnam talks to the power of interest and the dangers of doing something about it without considering the consequences. It suggests that when somebody is enthusiastic about a cause, they might become so consumed by it that they feel they are divinely selected to free those who are oppressed. However, this enthusiasm can cause rash choices and actions that can have alarming repercussions, such as the execution of the lover. Putnam's quote functions as a warning to those who are enthusiastic about a cause to believe carefully before doing something about it, as the consequences can be alarming. It likewise serves as a pointer that enthusiasm and enthusiasm can be effective forces, however they should be tempered with caution and consideration.