The Devil’s Dictionary by Abrose Bierce

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Indecision
n. The chief element of success; “for whereas,” saith Sir Thomas Brewbold, “there is but one way to do nothing and divers way to do something, whereof, to a surety, only one is the right way, it followeth that he who from indecision standeth still hath not so many chances of going astray as he who pusheth forwards” — a most clear and satisfactory exposition on the matter. “Your prompt decision to attack,” said Genera Grant on a certain occasion to General Gordon Granger, “was admirable; you had but five minutes to make up your mind in.” “Yes, sir,” answered the victorious subordinate, “it is a great thing to be know exactly what to do in an emergency. When in doubt whether to attack or retreat I never hesitate a moment — I toss us a copper.” “Do you mean to say that’s what you did this time?” “Yes, General; but for Heaven’s sake don’t reprimand me: I disobeyed the coin.”
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