I do ride contend against the advantages of distrust. In the world we live in, it is but too necessary. Some of old called it the very sinews of discretion.

Of this stamp is the cant of, Not men, but measures.

When the leaders choose to make themselves bidders at an auction of popularity, their talents, in the construction of the state, will be of no service. They will become flatterers instead of legislators; the instruments, not the guides, of the people.

Power, in whatever hands, is rarely guilty of too strict limitations on itself.

Kings will be tyrants from policy, when subjects are rebels from principle.

The nature of things is, I admit, a sturdy adversary.

The essence of tyranny is the enforcement of stupid laws.