When the world has got hold of a lie, it is astonishing how hard it is to kill it. You beat it over the head, till it seems to have given up the ghost, and behold! the next day it is as healthy as ever.
Source: In The Ultimate Success Quotations Library, 1997.
-- Edward G Bulwer-Lytton, (May 25 1803-1873), English statesman, poet; He is chiefly remembered as a prolific novelist and his skill in anticipating and satisfying changes in public taste.