There are lazy minds as well as lazy bodies.

Without industry and frugality, nothing will do; with them, everything.

Pity and forbearance should characterize all acts of justice.

The first mistake in public business is the going into it.

It is the first responsibility of every citizen to question authority.

In short, I conceive that great part of the miseries of mankind are brought upon them by the false estimates they have made of the value of things, and by their giving too much for their whistles.

Repeal that [welfare] law, and you will soon see a change in their manners. ... Six days shalt thou labor, though one of the old commandments long treated as out of date, will again be looked upon as a respectable precept; industry will increase, and with it plenty among the lower people; their circumstances will mend, and more will be done for their happiness by inuring them to provide for themselves, than could be done by dividing all your estates among them.