The expenses required to prevent a war are much lighter than those that will, if not prevented, be absolutely necessary to maintain it.

The person who deserves most pity is a lonesome one on a rainy day who doesn't know how to read.

My rule, in which I have always found satisfaction, is, never to turn aside in public affairs through views of private interest; but to go straight forward in doing what appears to me right at the time, leaving the consequences with Providence.

Behold the rain which descends from heaven upon our vineyards; there it enters the roots of the vines, to be changed into wine; a constant proof that God loves us, and loves to see us happy.

Most fools think they are only ignorant.

I wish the bald eagle had not been chosen as the representative of our country; he is a bird of bad moral character; like those among men who live by sharping and robbing, he is generally poor, and often very lousy. The turkey is a much more respectable bird, and withal a true original native of America.

He that is conscious of a stink in his breeches is [suspicious] of every wrinkle in another's nose.