I want it said of me by those who knew me best, that I always plucked a thistle and planted a flower where I thought a flower would grow.

Whenever I hear anyone arguing for slavery, I feel a strong impulse to see it tried on him personally.

Liquor may have its defenders, but it has no defense.

As to the whiskers, having never worn any, do you not think people would call it a piece of silly affectation if I were to begin it now?

No man is good enough to govern another man without the other's consent.

The man does not live who is more devoted to peace than I am. None who would do more to preserve it.

Labor is the great source from which nearly all, if not all, human comforts and necessities are drawn.