When a political cycle survives for an appreciable period of time, the nature of the middle classes and their relation to the political elite gradually changes.  In eras of constitutional rule there is a tendency for these classes to arrogate to themselves certain of the powers and privileges of the elite.  This is not difficult since it is their normal function to act on behalf of the elite.  Powers delegated often become powers lost; once lost they are not easily recovered (1966, p.63)