We learned once for all that compromise makes a good umbrella, but a poor roof. It is a temporary expedient, often wise in party politics, almost sure to be unwise in statesmanship.

James Russell Lowell (1819-1891) American diplomat, essayist, poet

“Democracy,” speech, Birmingham, England (6 Oct 1884)
    (Source)

On becoming President of the Birmingham and Midland Institute. Speaking of the years leading up to the US Civil War, with the unsuccessful application of compromise "to a question of fundamental morals" (slavery).