The notion of ‘police’ – that is, rational administration – was seen as a historical force which could bring civilized improvement to societies.

Spiders feed on gnats and flies.

Nathaniel's coat, sir, was not fully made; And Gabriel's pumps were all unpinked i' the heel

The fastest way to destroy one's credibility in Ottawa or anywhere else is to go to bat over something frivolous. I recall Dan McKenzie (Winnipeg South Centre) coming to see me with an article he'd picked up that said metrification would result in a ten-hour day. He even had a picture of the new clock.