Meaning: The quote you provided is from Richard Cobden, a prominent 19th-century British businessman, and politician known for his advocacy of free trade and peace. The quote reflects Cobden's contemplation on the concept of single vs. double government and his difficulty in recognizing the present form of government as a double government.

To delve into the quote, it's essential to understand the context in which Cobden made this statement. During his time, the debate over the structure and effectiveness of government was a prominent topic of discussion. Cobden was deeply involved in political and economic discourse, particularly in relation to trade and governance. The quote suggests that he was grappling with the question of whether a single or a double government would be more advantageous.

Cobden's reference to "single or double government" likely pertains to the division of power within a political system. A single government would typically imply a centralized authority or unitary state where power is concentrated in a single entity, such as a central government. On the other hand, a double government could refer to a system with a division of powers between different levels or branches of government, such as a federal system with distinct national and regional authorities.

Cobden's assertion that he cannot see the present form of government as a double government at all suggests his skepticism or confusion about the actual distribution of power in the existing political structure. This indicates that he may have perceived a lack of true division or balance of power within the government of his time.

In interpreting Cobden's statement, it's important to recognize that his views were shaped by the political and social dynamics of the 19th century. During this era, various political ideologies and systems of governance were being debated and tested. Cobden's perspective on the nature of government reflects the broader discussions and controversies surrounding the organization and functioning of political authority.

Furthermore, as a businessman, Cobden may have approached the question of government structure from a practical and pragmatic standpoint. His advocacy of free trade and economic liberalism suggests that he was attuned to the impact of governance on commerce and society. Therefore, his contemplation of single vs. double government may have been influenced by his assessment of how different governmental structures could affect economic activity and individual liberties.

In summarizing Cobden's quote, it is evident that he was grappling with fundamental questions about the nature of government and its implications for society and commerce. His difficulty in perceiving the existing form of government as a double government underscores the complexity and ambiguity surrounding the distribution of power in the political system of his time.

In conclusion, Richard Cobden's quote reflects his contemplation on the advantages of single vs. double government and his uncertainty about the nature of the present government structure. His perspective is informed by the political and economic dynamics of the 19th century, as well as his advocacy of free trade and individual freedoms. While the quote captures a specific moment in the discourse on governance, it also resonates with broader discussions about the organization and functioning of political authority.