diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 2b65ff2..e8b74ff 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -39,6 +39,11 @@ the engine's governing temperament:
 
 > The hammer permits no silent widening of scope.
 
+And its project motto keeps the same principle courteous:
+
+> If one must be struck by security policy, let it be by a respectable velvet
+> hammer: precise, accountable, and courteous enough to explain why.
+
 ## Project documents
 
 - [Coarse-grained concept](CONCEPT.md)