A politician needs the ability to foretell what is going to happen tomorrow, next week, next month, and next year. And to have the ability afterwards to explain why it didn't happen.

Dangers which are warded off and difficulties which are overcome before they reach a crisis are utterly unrecognised.

I do not believe in a major war this year because the French army at present is as large as that of Germany and far more mature. But next year and the year after may carry these Dictator-ridden countries to the climax of their armament and of their domestic embarrassments. We shall certainly need to be ready then.

It is always wise to look ahead, but difficult to look further than you can see.

I always avoid prophesying beforehand, because it is a much better policy to prophesy after the event has already taken place.

A hopeful disposition is not the sole qualification to be a prophet.