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

Government is not reason; it is not eloquent; it is force. Like fire, it is a dangerous servant and a fearful master.

The power under the Constitution will always be in the people.

The United States of America should have a foundation free from the influence of clergy.

Precedents are dangerous things; let the reins of government then be braced and held with a steady hand, and every violation of the Constitution be reprehended: If defective let it be amended, but not suffered to be trampled upon whilst it has an existence.

We must never despair; our situation has been compromising before, and it has changed for the better; so I trust it will again. If difficulties arise, we must put forth new exertion and proportion our efforts to the exigencies of the times.

The Independence and Liberty you possess are the work of joint councils and joint efforts, of common dangers, sufferings and successes.