What is the history of mighty kingdoms and nations, but a detail of the ravages and cruelties of the powerful over the weak?

A people fired ... with love of their country and of liberty, a zeal for the public good, and a noble emulation of glory, will not be disheartened or dispirited by a succession of unfortunate events. But like them, may we learn by defeat the power of becoming invincible.

But let no person say what they would or would not do, since we are not judges for ourselves until circumstances call us to act.

I hope some future day will bring me the happiness of seeing my family again collected under our own roof, happy in ourselves and blessed in each other.

I am more and more convinced that man is a dangerous creature.

Heaven grant me that I may thus rejoice in my children, thus see them ornaments to their Country, and blessings to their parents.

To be good, and do good, is the whole duty of man comprised in a few words.