Nothing in progression can rest on its original plan. We may as well think of rocking a grown man in the cradle of an infant.

Knowledge of those unalterable Relations which Providence has ordained that every thing should bear to every other...To these we should conform in good Earnest; and not think to force Nature, and the whole Order of her System, by a Compliance with our Pride, and Folly, to conform to our artificial Regulations.

It is by imitation, far more than by precept, that we learn everything; and what we learn thus, we acquire not only more effectually, but more pleasantly.

No sound ought to be heard in the church but the healing voice of Christian charity.

Government is the exercise of all the great qualities of the human mind.

In effect, to follow, not to force the public inclination; to give a direction, a form, a technical dress, and a specific sanction, to the general sense of the community, is the true end of legislature.

Among a people generally corrupt liberty cannot long exist.