The Stamp Act imposed on the colonies by the Parliament of Great Britain is an ill-judged measure. Parliament has no right to put its hands into our pockets without our consent.

To rectify past blunders is impossible, but we might profit by the experience of them.

A lottery is the perfect tax...laid only upon the willing.

I conceive a knowledge of books is the basis upon which other knowledge is to be built.

Lenity will operate with greater force, in some instances, than rigor. It is, therefore, my first wish, to have my whole conduct distinguished by it.

The name of American, which belongs to you, in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of Patriotism . . .

Impressed with a conviction that the due administration of justice is the firmest pillar of good Government, I have considered the first arrangement of the Judicial department as essential to the happiness of our Country, and to the stability of its political system.