“Amid the din of party strife the people's choice was made, but its attendant circumstances have demonstrated anew the strength and safety of a government by the people. In each succeeding year it more clearly appears that our democratic principle needs no apology, and that in its fearless and faithful application is to be found the surest guaranty of good government.
But the best results in the operation of a government wherein every citizen has a share largely depend upon a proper limitation of purely partisan zeal and effort and a correct appreciation of the time when the heat of the partisan should be merged in the patriotism of the citizen.”
Grover Cleveland
They exited Columbus Circle and started to walk down Central Park West. They didn’t make it very far.
“Why are there barriers around this building?” Alexander asked.
“It is a security precaution.”
“For what threat?”
“The leader of the nation owns this building.”
“Is he here now?”
“No, he doesn’t spend much time here.”
“Why not, is he off on military campaign?”
“No, that’s not really done anymore.”
“There are no more military campaigns?”
“No, there are still wars, but the leader of the country doesn’t lead them.”
“Why would you grant power to a man who is incapable of leading an army in battle?”
“Times have changed.”
“No king leads his army now?”
“Kings are also a thing of the past.”
“How are you governed?”
“By the consent of the people. Democracy.”
“It is folly. Not even Athens could maintain a democracy. You paved the way the way for tyrants. Thinking democracy could work.”
“It has worked for hundreds of years.” Adell said as they continued to look at the President’s ...