In Trollope's political novel Phineas Redux (1874), a once idealistic young parliamentarian expresses his hard-won cynicism thus:
Lady Laura: "I understand. I know that you have meant to be honest, while this man has always meant to be dishonest. I know that you have intended to serve your country, and have wished to work for it. But you cannot expect that it should all be roses."
Phineas: "Roses! The nosegays which are worn down at Westminster are made of garlick and dandelions!"
Lady Laura: "I understand. I know that you have meant to be honest, while this man has always meant to be dishonest. I know that you have intended to serve your country, and have wished to work for it. But you cannot expect that it should all be roses."
Phineas: "Roses! The nosegays which are worn down at Westminster are made of garlick and dandelions!"
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