In the infancy of societies, the chiefs of state shape its institutions; later the institutions shape the chiefs of state.

Although born in a prosperous realm, we did not believe that its boundaries should limit our knowledge, and that the lore of the East should alone enlighten us.

Great commanders write their actions with simplicity; because they receive more glory from facts than from words.

The incomparable stupidity of life teaches us to love our parents; divine philosophy teaches us to forgive them.

The spirit of commerce... renders every man willing to live on his own property...& prevents the growth of luxury.

Law should be like death, which spares no one.

Slavery, properly so called, is the establishment of a right which gives to one man such a power over another as renders him absolute master of his life and fortune.