Ladies are always of great use to the party they espouse…
“Ladies are always of great use to the party they espouse, and never fail to win over numbers to it. Lovers, according to Sir William Petty's computation, make at least the third part of sensible men of the British nation; and it has been an uncontroverted maxim in all ages, that though a husband is sometimes a stubborn sort of a creature, a lover is always at the devotion of his mistress. By this means, it lies in the power of every fine woman, to secure at least half a dozen able-bodied men to his Majesty's service.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Women influence society by rallying men to causes, while lovers often dominate women's devotion, shaping political and social power.
In simple terms: Women mobilize men; lovers dominate devotion.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the subtle power dynamics in relationships and politics.
Themes
gender
politics
social influence
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
historical
sociopolitical
When to use this quote
- campaigns
- community leadership
- marriage counseling
Key Concepts
power dynamics
social mobilization
Questions to Reflect On
- How do contemporary relationships reflect or reject these dynamics?
- In what ways can women’s influence be recognized today?
A Different Perspective
Historical view may oversimplify modern gender roles and agency.