"In those days he was wiser than he is now - he used frequently to take my advice"
- Lord Chesterfield
About this Quote
This quote by Lord Chesterfield talks to the idea that knowledge is something that can be gained and lost in time. It indicates that the individual being spoken of was as soon as wise, but has actually because ended up being less so. This might be due to a range of reasons, such as age, experience, or merely a change in viewpoint. It likewise implies that the speaker had a close relationship with the person being mentioned, as they were able to offer suggestions and have it taken. This might be a sign of respect, or merely a sign of trust in between the two. It is a tip that wisdom is something that can be gotten and lost, which it is essential to listen from those who have more experience. It is also a pointer that relationships are necessary, which it is important to take advice from those who we trust and respect.
"I weep for the liberty of my country when I see at this early day of its successful experiment that corruption has been imputed to many members of the House of Representatives, and the rights of the people have been bartered for promises of office"