If you cut against the political grain, they'll do everything they can to ruin you, and your family.
It's an argument for reinstating the practice of "dueling". If somebody slanders you, let him back it up with a pistol.
Interesting side story;
The old dueling rules.. one challenges..then the person who is challenged picks the weapon..
A short movie I once saw, which if I recall correctly, starred Ronald Reagan in his younger years.
A European dandy drifts into a sleepy Montana town, packing his black powder deuling pistols
Looking to build a "reputation".. He starts inquiring as to who is likely the "toughest guy in town".
At first, not understanding his motives, local folks said the blacksmith was probably the toughest guy in town..not adding that he was also one of the nicest guy in town.
Gaining that information, the would-be-famous duelist made plans to challenge the blacksmith.
As I recall..one day he provoked a scene by tripping the blacksmith. although the blacksmith said "excuse me"..he still pressed the issue physically, until his challenge was accepted, duel to take place behind the blacksmith shop next morning..
The schoolmaster, seeing the situation and not liking what he saw, had a hasty personal conversation with the smith, discussing the rules of the duel
Next morning the dandy shows up, his second displaying a beautiful pair of black powder pistols..offering the smith his choice.
The smith .." I have the right to choose my weapon, correct?" The dandy replies.."that you have"...
The smith then says, "here's my choice of weapons"..and produces a pair of 2 pound hammers..offering the challenger to take his pick.
The would be gunfighter..was quick to desert the town.