XXVII. We may add to this, that the inserting the great number of maxims
and cautions which we read in histories, arose principally from the
negligence, sloth, or ignorance of those, with whom the communicators of
them have had to do in negotiations. If I can’t suppose in the business
that presents itself to me, some of those specifical defects in the
people with whom I am to treat; the imitation of the maxims, will not
only stand me in no stead, but may be hurtful to me. The same motion of
the arm, which in fencing may kill an unwary enemy, may give an opening
to another who is watchful and attentive, to demolish the person who made
the motion.