BOOK III PART II
And here it is observable, that the same
length of time has a different influence on our
sentiments of morality, according to its differ-
ent influence on the mind. We naturally judge
of every thing by comparison; and since in con-
sidering the fate of kingdoms and republics, we
embrace a long extent of time, a small dura-
tion has not in this case a like influence on our
sentiments, as when we consider any other ob-
ject. One thinks he acquires a right to a horse,
or a suit of cloaths, in a very short time; but
a century is scarce sufficient to establish any
new government, or remove all scruples in the
minds of the subjects concerning it. Add to
this, that a shorter period of time will suffice
to give a prince a title to any additional power
he may usurp, than will serve to fix his right,
where the whole is an usurpation. The kings
of France have not been possessed of absolute