Middlemarch (1874) — Chapter 64

George Eliot (1819–1880)

1st Gent. Where lies the power, there let the blame lie too.2d Gent. Nay, power is relative; you cannot frightThe coming pest with border fortresses,Or catch your carp with subtle argument.All force is twain in one: cause is not causeUnless effect be there; and action’s selfMust needs contain a passive. So commandExists but with obedience.