PESSIMISTS STULTIFIED

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 80, 13 April 1945, Page 2

PESSIMISTS STULTIFIED

SOME FAMOUS EXAMPLES Some prophecies and judgments which proved to be wrong are quoted by Dr W R. Inge. D.D.. writing in the “Evening Standard.” Here are some of the examples he quoted : “There is scarcely anything round us but ruin and despair.” (William Pitt). “T dare not marry; the future is so unsettled ” (Wilberforce. He did marry, one of my wife’s family). “Nothing can save the British Empire from shipwreck.” (Shaftesbury, in 1848). “In industry, commerce and agriculture there is no hope.” (Disraeli, in 1849). “X thank God I shall be spared rrom seeing the consummation of ruin that is gathering about us.” (Wellington, in 1852). “I believe that this day 12 months I shall be either in my grave or in the workhouse, and I hope it may be the former.” (Wilson Croker. An apposite name!) “When America gains independence, the star of England will set. and her glories will be eclipsed forever.” (Shelburne). “Europe will soon be either Republican or Cossack.” (Napoleon). “It would be as easy to bring down a bit of the moon as to light London with gas.” (Sir Humphry Davy). "Russia can never join France against Germany.” (Bismarck). “Neither Malta nor the Cape will ever be of importance to Great Britain.” (Nelson;.