These were choice documents to me... They gave tongue to interesting thoughts of my own soul, which had frequently flashed through my mind, and died away for want of utterance.

Man's greatness consists in his ability to do and the proper application of his powers to things needed to be done.

If we would reach a degree of civilization higher and grander than any yet attained, we should welcome to our ample continent all the nations, kindreds, tongues and peoples, and as fast as they learn our language and comprehend the duties of citizenship, we should incorporate them into the American body politic. The outspread wings of the American eagle are broad enough to shelter all who are likely to come.

The District of Columbia is the one spot where there is no government for the people, of the people and by the people.

Slaves were expected to sing as well as to work. A silent slave was not liked, either by masters or overseers.

Once you read, you will be free forever.

When men sow the wind it is rational to expect that they will reap the whirlwind.