Adversity is a severe instructor, set over us by one who knows us better than we do ourselves, as he loves us better too. He that wrestles with us strengthens our nerves and sharpens our skill. Our antagonist is our helper. This conflict with difficulty makes us acquainted with our object, and compels us to consider it in all its relations. It will not suffer us to be superficial.

Over-taxation cost England her colonies of North America.

I know of nothing sublime which is not some modification of power.

Man acts from adequate motives relative to his interest, and not on metaphysical speculations.

Liberty, without wisdom, is license.

Under the pressure of the cares and sorrows of our mortal condition, men have at all times, and in all countries, called in some physical aid to their moral consolations - wine, beer, opium, brandy, or tobacco.

When you fear something, learn as much about it as you can. Knowledge conquers fear.