Ambrose Bierce

DIPLOMACY, n. Lying in state, or the patriotic art of lying for one's country.

DIPLOMACY, n. Lying in state, or the patriotic art of lying for one's country.

In Dr. Johnson's famous dictionary, patriotism is defined as the last refuge of a scoundrel. With all due respect to read more

In Dr. Johnson's famous dictionary, patriotism is defined as the last refuge of a scoundrel. With all due respect to an enlightened but inferior lexicographer, I beg to submit that it is the first.

Tenacity is a certain quality of the human hand in its relation to the coin of the realm. It attains read more

Tenacity is a certain quality of the human hand in its relation to the coin of the realm. It attains its highest development in the hand of authority and is considered a serviceable equipment for a career in politics.

FUNERAL, n. A pageant whereby we attest our respect for the dead by enriching the undertaker, and strengthen our grief read more

FUNERAL, n. A pageant whereby we attest our respect for the dead by enriching the undertaker, and strengthen our grief by an expenditure that deepens our groans and doubles our tears.

VALOR, n. A soldierly compound of vanity, duty and the gambler's hope.

VALOR, n. A soldierly compound of vanity, duty and the gambler's hope.