I have an irrepressible desire to live till I can be assured that the world is a little better for my having lived in it.

I think the authors of that notable instrument [the Declaration of Independence] intended to include all men.

It may be affirmed, without extravagance, that the free institutions we enjoy, have developed the powers, and improved the condition, of our whole people, beyond any example in the world.

God can not be for, and against the same thing at the same time.

Always let your subordinates know that the honor will be all theirs if they succeed and the blame will be yours if they fail.

Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth.

Let reverence for the laws, be breathed by every American mother, to the lisping babe, that prattles on her lap - let it be taught in schools, in seminaries, and in colleges; let it be written in Primmers, spelling books, and in Almanacs; let it be preached from the pulpit, proclaimed in legislative halls, and enforced in courts of justice.