“Rule number two is, Never be specific. Never commit yourself to any 
definite plan or act, since you have no control over the future and might 
not be able to fulfill your promises. Thus, talk in generalities. Say 
you’re going to make things better—but never say just how. Always point out 
what’s wrong with the forest: but don’t think you have to say what you 
would do to amend it. For instance, if the subject of a year round water 
supply should come up—and I can assure you that the eagle will bring it 
up—you can merely reply that you agree wholeheartedly with that proposal 
and that, as President, you will do your utmost to ensure that the project 
is initiated and completed. You might want to throw a sop to the boars, 
rabbits, deer, and whatever other species happens to be in your audience by 
mentioning how their skill, enterprise, and love of forest will overcome 
any obstacles. Get the idea? In short, put on a bright happy face, speak 
enthusiastically, sprinkle your speech with compliments to whoever is 
listening to you, and give assurances of better days!"

--campaign advice from the snake to the ass

"The Polity of Beasts"

(Politics as you KNOW it is ...)