Today's Maxwell Quote

From That Ye May Believe (1992), 144:

The possessors of secular power have often allowed their intense loyalty to others to grind down their integrity. The tendency to indulge one's friends, or the failure to see betrayal or toadying sycophancy in their earliest stages, contribute to tragedy. "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed" (Proverbs 13:20). Some political leaders have difficulty in personally discharging those who must go. Other leaders are too quick to provide scapegoats.

Another example for your files: Britain's Prime Minister Clement Attlee, for instance, sought to place lively individuals about him:

The fatal mistake in making appointments was to select "docile yes-men." To guard against this Attlee sometimes chose to "put in people who are likely to be awkward." These were always to be warned in advance: "If you don't turn out all right I shall sack you." ... And he was as good as his word.

One junior minister ... was summoned precipitously to Number ten, to be congratulated on the work of his department, he thought. "What can I do for you, Prime Minister?" he said, as he sat down. "I want your job," said Attlee. The minister was staggered. "But ... why, Prime Minister?" "Afraid you're not up to it," said Attlee. The interview was over.

Today's Maxwell Quote

From That Ye May Believe (1992), 144-145:

Too often mortal power, status, acclaim, and riches are allowed to define people and their roles. How slowly, therefore, do some relinquish those trappings! Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, critics said, clung to power and office like a limpet.

If only all of us understood our true and lasting identity and were not so dependent on fleeting things!

By the way, one of the great moments of reproof occurred in the parliament that marked the beginning of the end of Neville Chamberlain's prime ministership. There had been an immense buildup of frustration. On this occasion Parliament was packed, as various members began to attack Chamberlain's faltering administration. Leo Amery, the next speaker, quoted some lines from Oliver Cromwell on the need for fighting spirit and resolution. Then, to the rapt attention of Parliament, he added:

I have quoted certain words of Oliver Cromwell. I will quote certain other words. I do it with great reluctance because I am speaking of those who are old friends and associates of mine, but they are words which, I think, are applicable to the present situation. This is what Cromwell said to the long Parliament when he thought it was no longer fit to conduct the affairs of the nation:

‎"You have sat too long here from any good you have been doing. Depart, I say, and let us have done with you. In the name of God, go.

It was a most dramatic moment and one that shattered Chamberlain.