It is the nature of tyranny and rapacity never to learn moderation from the ill-success of first oppressions; on the contrary, all oppressors, all men thinking highly of the methods dictated by their nature, attribute the frustration of their desires to the want of sufficient rigor.

All virtue which is impracticable is spurious.

A great empire and little minds go ill together.

I am not one of those who think that the people are never in the wrong. They have been so, frequently and outrageously, both in other countries and in this. But I do say that in all disputes between them and their rulers, the presumption is at least upon a par in favour of the people.

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

Men are qualified for civil liberty in exact proportion to their disposition to put moral chains upon their own appetites.

He had no failings which were not owing to a noble cause; to an ardent, generous, perhaps an immoderate passion for fame; a passion which is the instinct of all great souls.