Benjamin Disraeli — "We are not creatures of circumstance; we are creators of circumstance."

"Governments do not govern, but merely control the machinery of government, being themselves controlled by the hidden hand."

"If Mr. Gladstone fell into the Thames, that would be a misfortune; and if anybody pulled him out, that would be a calamity."

"A member of Parliament to Disraeli: 'Sir, you will either die on the gallows or of some unspeakable disease.' That depends, Sir,' said Disraeli, 'whether I embrace your policies or your mistress."

"When a man fell into his anecdotage it was a sign for him to retire from the world."

"I think there is nothing more lovely than the love of two beautiful women who are not envious of each other's charms."