Education is a nation's cheapest defence

The starry heaven, though it occurs so very frequently to our view, never fails to excite an idea of grandeur. This cannot be owing to the stars themselves, separately considered. The number is certainly the cause. The apparent disorder augments the grandeur, for the appearance of care is highly contrary to our ideas of magnificence. Besides, the stars lie in such apparent confusion, as makes it impossible on ordinary occasions to reckon them. This gives them the advantage of a sort of infinity.

I have never yet seen any plan which has not been mended by the observations of those who were much inferior in understanding to the person who took the lead in the business.

Evils we have had continually calling for reformation, and reformations more grievous than any evils.

There is a time when the hoary head of inveterate abuse will neither draw reverence nor obtain protection.

Politics ought to be adjusted not to human reasonings but to human nature, of which reason is but a part and by no means the greatest part.

I own that there is a haughtiness and fierceness in human nature which will cause innumerable broils, place men in what situation you please.