Can treaties be more faithfully enforced between aliens than laws can among friends? Suppose you go to war, you cannot fight always; and when, after much loss on both sides, and no gain on either, you cease fighting, the identical old questions as to terms of intercourse are again upon you.

Summary

This quote highlights the idea that treaties, which are agreements made between nations or groups, may be more effectively enforced among unfamiliar entities (aliens) rather than among familiar entities (friends). It suggests that during conflicts between friends or nations, even when they stop fighting, the issues and disputes that led to the conflict often reemerge, making it challenging to establish stable and lasting terms of interaction. This quote questions the reliability and impact of treaties and laws in resolving disputes and maintaining peaceful relationships.

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