[xxxvi. 145]

1822 July 19

Constitut. Code Rationale

Supreme Operative

I. Monarch absolute

II. Monarch Limited

III. Aristocracy

IV Monarcho-Aristocracy

The simple truth of the matter is this. It is by force and intimidation that the conduct of the people at large is determined. It is by corruption /corruptive influence/ that the conduct of the majority in each of the two Houses of Parliament is determined: in the House of Commons in the first instance, and then in the House of Lords: the will of the Lords following of course that of the King and the Commons

But the matter of corruption - on whose will does the application of it depend? On that of the Minister. And the Minister - on whose will does his continuance /existence/ in that situation depend? On the Kings.

Let the King give to what man he will the disposal of the matter of corruptive influence, the will of that individual is sure to be confirmed /done/ by the majority in both Houses

Events may happen - events which for a time may make the King see his /a/ convenience in substituting to a Minister more agreable to him a Minister less agreable to him. But in this temporary exception there is nothing that detracts from the truth, to all practical purposes, of the general rule. In this there is nothing more than what is every now and then happening in the most absolute governments, that of Turkey not excepted.