WIST

It is reputed that Mr. Disraeli when he was once asked by a new member whether he advised him to take part often in debate replied: — No, I do not think you ought to do so, because it is much better that the House should wonder why you do not speak than why you do. My advice in this matter is very much the same as that given by Mr. Disraeli; it is much better when a member resumes his seat after he has made a speech for the House to have the feeling that they wish he had gone on longer instead of wondering why he did not stop sooner.

Edward Algernon Fitzroy (1869–1943) British politician
Remarks, House of Commons (25 May 1939)