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3147. FRANCE, Honesty of.—

A wise
man, if nature has not formed him honest, will
yet act as if he were honest; because he will
find it the most advantageous and wise part
in the long run. I have believed that this
Court possesses this high species of wisdom
even if its new faith be ostensible only. If
they trip on any occasion it will be warning
to us. I do not expect they will, but it is
our business to be on the watch.—
To James Monroe. Ford ed., iv, 40.
(P. 1785)