[xxxvi. 138]

1822 July 13

Constitut. Code Rationale

Supreme Operative

I Monarch

One universally-applying maxim dictated by /the genuine fruit of/ the sinister interest, serves as a means of preservation to absurdity in every imaginable shape. Though the absurd institution or arrangement is not productive of any immediate advantage to yourself says the modern Machiavel to his patron preserve it notwithstanding: for though the existence of it does not serve, the abolition of it would disserve, your own particular interest. Why? Because to justify the abolition it would be necessary to lay down /bring into action/ some position, conformable to reason and subordinate and subservient bearing a reference more or less obvious to the all-comprehensive and universally applying principle - the greatest happiness principle. But by homage paid to that principle, you put arms into the hands of the adversary: when the absurd arrangement from which you derive no advantage is disposed of, presently after enters the adversary and proposes the abolition of an absurd institution and arrangement from which you do derive advantage, and which you can not spare thereupon for a ground for the proposition, out comes this position which, you yourself having made use of, and given your sanction /paid homage/ to you can not give up /oppose/, or elude the force of without rendering your insincerity and the corruptness of your disposition manifest without betraying and laying open to view the corruption with which your heart /whole frame of mind/ is impregnated

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