The system is the best that the present views and circumstances of the country will permit.

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

Little more can reasonably be aimed at with respect to the people at large than to have them properly armed.

If, then, the courts of justice are to be considered as the bulwarks of a limited Constitution against legislative encroachments, this consideration will afford a strong argument for the permanent tenure of judicial offices, since nothing will contribute so much as this to that independent spirit in the judges which must be essential to the faithful performance of so arduous a duty.

The natural effect of low interest is to increase trade and industry; because undertakings of every kind can be prosecuted with greater advantage.

Men often oppose a thing merely because they have had no agency in planning it, or because it may have been planned by those whom they dislike.

The idea of restraining the legislative authority, in the means of providing for the national defense, is one of those refinements which owe their origin to a zeal for liberty more ardent than enlightened.