"Wars are not paid for in wartime, the bill comes later"

This quote by Benjamin Franklin is a cautioning about the consequences of war. He is saying that the costs of war are not paid for during the war itself, however rather the bill comes later on. This could refer to the physical and psychological expenses of war, such as the death, damage of home, and the psychological injury of those who experience it. It could also refer to the economic costs of war, such as the expense of weapons, supplies, and other resources utilized in the dispute. Franklin is cautioning that the true expense of war is not felt till after the war is over, which it is very important to consider the long-lasting effects of taking part in conflict. He is cautioning against the concept that war is a fast and easy option to an issue, and that it is essential to think about the long-lasting ramifications of engaging in dispute.