"The supposed quietude of a good man allures the ruffian;
while on the other hand, arms like laws, discourage
and keep the invader and the plunderer in awe,
and preserve order in the world as well as property.
The same balance would be preserved were all the world
destitute of arms, for all would be alike;
but since some will not, others dare not lay them aside...
Horrid mischief would ensue were one half the world
deprived of the use of them..." | by: | Thomas Paine
(1737-1809) US Founding father, pamphleteer, author |
Source: | I Writings of Thomas Paine at 56, 1984 |
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