The prosecution of [Warren] Hastings, though he should…
![“The prosecution of [Warren] Hastings, though he should escape at last, must have good effect. It will alarm the servants of the Company in India, that they may not always plunder with impunity, but that there may be a retrospect; and it will show them that even bribes of diamonds to the Crown may…” quote by Horace Walpole](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/79e/horace-walpole-3357_alarms_the-prosecution-of-warren-hastings-thoug_1849854.jpg)
“The prosecution of [Warren] Hastings, though he should escape at last, must have good effect. It will alarm the servants of the Company in India, that they may not always plunder with impunity, but that there may be a retrospect; and it will show them that even bribes of diamonds to the Crown may not secure them from prosecution.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Punishing a high‑ranking official serves as a deterrent to others, showing that even powerful allies cannot escape justice.
In simple terms: Prosecution deters future misconduct.
Key Takeaway
Enforce accountability at all levels.
Themes
justice
deterrence
politics
integrity
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
analysis
historical
policy
When to use this quote
- government oversight
- corporate governance
- anti‑corruption policy
- legal reform
Key Concepts
rule of law
power dynamics
colonial administration
Questions to Reflect On
- How effective are high‑profile prosecutions?
- What reforms accompany legal actions?
A Different Perspective
Punishment alone may not change systemic corruption.