Wise politicians will be cautious about fettering the government with restrictions that cannot be observed, because they know that every break of the fundamental laws, though dictated by necessity, impairs that sacred reverence which ought to be maintained in the breast of rulers towards the constitution of a country.

No man in his senses can hesitate in choosing to be free, rather than a slave.

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

Can any reasonable man be well disposed toward a government which makes war and carnage the only means of supporting itself?

Man is a reasoning rather than a reasonable animal.

The treaties of the United States, to have any force at all, must be considered as part of the law of the land.

I have a tender reliance on the mercy of the Almighty, through the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am a sinner. I look to Him for mercy; pray for me.