Nothing is so galling to a people not broken in from the birth as a paternal, or in other words a meddling government, a government which tells them what to read and say and eat and drink and wear.

Summary

This quote highlights the idea that a government that excessively interferes in citizens' personal lives can be frustrating and annoying. It emphasizes that individuals who have had a long history of independence and freedom might find it difficult to accept a paternalistic government that tries to control various aspects of their lives, such as their choices in reading, speech, food, drink, and attire. The quote suggests that people value personal freedom and autonomy, and any attempt to restrict those freedoms can be seen as oppressive and problematic.