The best way to have peace is to always be prepared to fight a way.

If, in the opinion of the people, the distribution or modification of the constitutional powers be in any particular wrong, let it be corrected by an amendment in the way which the Constitution designates. But let there be no change by usurpation; for though this, in one instance, may be the instrument of good, it is the customary weapon by which free governments are destroyed.

To secure respect to a neutral flag requires a naval force organized and ready to vindicate it from insult or aggression.

The friendship I have conceived will not be impaired by absence; but it may be no unpleasing circumstance to brighten the chain by a renewal of the covenant.

Providence has at all times been my only dependence, for all other resources seemed to have failed us.

I am once more seated under my own vine and fig tree ... and hope to spend the remainder of my days in peaceful retirement, making political pursuits yield to the more rational amusement of cultivating the earth.

In a free and republican government, you cannot restrain the voice of the multitude.