Corrupt influence is itself the perennial spring of all prodigality, and of all disorder; it loads us more than millions of debt; takes away vigor from our arms, wisdom from our councils, and every shadow of authority and credit from the most venerable parts of our constitution.

By looking into physical causes our minds are opened and enlarged; and in this pursuit, whether we take or whether we lose the game, the chase is certainly of service.

Circumspection and caution are part of wisdom.

An extreme rigor is sure to arm everything against it.

Taxing is an easy business. Any projector can contrive new compositions, any bungler can add to the old.

The tribunal of conscience exists independent of edicts and decrees.

A great deal of the furniture of ancient tyranny is torn to rags; the rest is entirely out of fashion.