Quote by Ambrose Bierce
Consul. In American politics, a person who having failed to secure an office from the people is given one by the Administration on condition that he leave the country.
Summary
This quote satirically defines the term "Consul" in American politics. It suggests that a consul is a person who, after being unsuccessful in acquiring an elected office through popular vote, is appointed by those in power with the contingency that they should depart from the country. The quote indirectly ridicules political appointments, hinting at the notion of undeserving individuals being rewarded with positions of authority simply because they align themselves with the current administration.