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

Religion is essentially the art and the theory of the remaking of man. Man is not a finished creation.

I venture to say no war can be long carried on against the will of the people.

I find along with many virtues in my countrymen there is a jealousy, a soreness, and readiness to take offence, as if they were the most helpless and impotent of mankind, and yet a violence... and a boistrousness in their resentment, as if they had been puffed up with the highest prosperity and power. they will not only be served, but it must also be in their own way and on their own principles and even in words and language that they liked... which renders it very difficult for a plain unguarded man as I am to have anything to do with them or their affairs.

Good company, lively conversation, and the endearments of friendship fill the mind with great pleasure.

If the people are happy, united, wealthy, and powerful, we presume the rest. We conclude that to be good from whence good is derived.

One that confounds good and evil is an enemy to good.