Who first said, 'The best government is that which governs least'?

Who first said, ~without authority the masses would devour those of means.

It was in French and my paraphrase may be lacking.

Or how about, ~If I held Truth in my hand I would grip it tightly, for if it were to escape the world would forever scorn me.

I think also a Frenchie… (coincidence)

The problem with Man is not his authority, it is her lack of it.