It is infinitely better to have a few good men than many indifferent ones.

A good moral character is the first essential. It is highly important not only to be learned but to be virtuous.

My policy has been, and will continue to be, while I have the honor to remain in the administration of the government, to be upon friendly terms with, but independent of, all the nations of the earth. To share in the broils of none. To fulfil our own engagements. To supply the wants, and be carriers for them all: Being thoroughly convinced that it is our policy and interest to do so.

The finite mind of man can never grasp the mysteries of the infinite. It is the highest wisdom, as it is our great happiness, to accept our limitations, to use what we have, and leave the rest to God.

Religious controversies are always productive of more acrimony and irreconcilable hatreds than those which spring from any other cause.

A primary object should be the education of our youth in the science of government. In a republic, what species of knowledge can be equally important? And what duty more pressing than communicating it to those who are to be the future guardians of the liberties of the country?

Government is at best a petulant servant and at worst a tyrannical master.