they were a fanatically independent people, much addicted to intrigue, treachery and murder, and that among their other national traits was an intolerance of rulers {or, if it came to that, of any form of authority whatsoever, other than their own desires}.
The excerpt describes a people characterized by their strong sense of independence and a penchant for engaging in political maneuvering and violence. Their cultural traits shape their interactions and governance, revealing a society that does not easily submit to authority. This fanatical independence leads to an environment where intrigue and treachery thrive, creating a complex social landscape.
Moreover, their intolerance for external rulers or any form of authority indicates a deep-rooted desire for self-governance and personal freedom. This rebellion against imposed leadership suggests a community that prioritizes its own desires over societal structures, resulting in a distinctive cultural identity marked by resistance and autonomy.