One great error is that we suppose mankind more honest than they are.

For my part, I sincerely esteem the Constitution, a system which without the finger of God, never could have been suggested and agreed upon by such a diversity of interests.

To model our political system upon speculations of lasting tranquility, is to calculate on the weaker springs of the human character.

A powerful, victorious ally is yet another name for master.

Happy will it be for ourselves, and most honorable for human nature, if we have wisdom and virtue enough to set so glorious an example to mankind!

Effective resistance to usurpers is possible only provided the citizens understand their rights and are disposed to defend them.

Let us recollect that peace or war will not always be left to our option; that however moderate or unambitious we may be, we cannot count upon the moderation, or hope to extinguish the ambition of others.