Auguste, Baron Lambermont

"The slave trade has another character; it is the very denial of every law, of all social order. Man-hunting constitutes a crime of high treason against humanity. It ought to be repressed wherever it can be reached, on land as well as by sea."

"No doubt whatever exists as to the strict and literal sense which should be assigned to the term in commercial matters. It refers exclusively to traffic, to the unlimited power of every one to sell and to buy, to import and to export products and manufactured articles. No privileged situation can be created under this head, the way remains open without any restrictions to free competition in the domain of commerce, but the obligations of local Governments do not go beyond that point."

"It is experience, which will then inspire the interested Powers with the most favourable resolutions for the development of commercial progress in their possessions."

"Those who want to know my thoughts will always be able to do so: it will suffice for them to consult my work."

"It was no coincidence that dictated my choice. Peace was definitively signed, the country's political constitution in full force, but Belgium was still looking for its ways in the commercial field. That’s where the point was."

"When Leopold had an idea in his head, it was impossible to make him quit."

"With regard to the industrial and commercial relations that China seeks to create in Europe, and the agents that it would like to recruit there for internal works or its administration, Belgium can offer it resources equal to those of the States of first order. In addition, the country's situation, its essentially peaceful character, precludes any possibility of political conflict."

"Mistrust of the foreigner is still at the bottom of the minds of the Chinese. One way if not to destroy, at least to mitigate these prejudices, would be to put the study committee under a neutral banner. The committee would be made up of capitalists and industrialists eager to prepare for the success of lucrative enterprises or of politicians willing to serve the cause of civilization with their help."

"Feelings of humanity and commiseration erupt on their own when we deliberate with our feet in the blood."

"The ivory issue worries me more and more. I am not forgetting any of the considerations that Your Majesty has deigned to point out to me, but commerce will want to be reassured as to the limits of competition."

"Never have I had the impression of such a moral and civic downfall. In no country, not even the last of the last, what is happening here would be possible."

"There is no such thing as exclusively national thinking. The work intended to benefit science and humanity necessarily interests everyone, but Belgium and its Sovereign will indirectly derive honor and great moral benefit from it; in this sense, there is a truly and usefully Belgian thought. We do not have a view of colonial acquisition, but over time trade will undoubtedly find its value there as well."

"He even carried on me the paternal feeling, that his bachelor's heart could not find to spend."

"It is difficult in each case and in each of these innumerable projects, to determine with rigorous precision what was the role of Lambermont; but always, we will see him intervening as a political or legal adviser, pointing out the possible steps of clerics, opening the eyes of the Prince to difficulties he had not perceived, channeling his ardor in the direction of realism and 'efficiency."

"From the start of his career, Lambermont sensed that the Chinese Empire could one day become a vast field for our activity and offer us virtually inexhaustible resources."

"The choice of Baron Lambermont, secretary general at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, collaborator and intimate adviser to the King, consummate diplomat and world celebrity, was appropriate. It was to him that in 1874 the King had said: “I would like to do something in Africa; I've been thinking about this for a few days now and would like you to help me. Here are my first impressions, think about it. I know your talent and your sagacious and devoted mind; I know that the day you get down to it, I will be able to count on you. peaceful and humanitarianism is my only concern.""

"What is lacking to Lambermont's glory is a book signed with his name, summarizing his doctrine and the lessons of his experience. But if one searched the archives of the Foreign Ministry, one would find countless reports, a multitude of notes and instructions written by his hand or at his dictation. It is hoped that their counting will tempt some historian who will undertake to write the annals of the Leopoldian period."

"I have no other desire than to leave Belgium bigger, stronger and more beautiful."

"Belgium is a boiler that needs valves."

"At the moment, neither the Spanish, the Portuguese, nor the Dutch are willing to sell. I intend to discreetly inform myself if in Africa if there is nothing to do."

"Thanks for explanations. Since Belgian nationality is useless, isn't it better to travel an African traveler who will have more authority than me? Fear of increasing financial embarrassment. Nevertheless am at the disposal of the King, but of course I will never be under the orders of a foreigner"