There is nothing which can better deserve your patronage, than the promotion of science and literature. Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.

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

Precedents are dangerous things; let the rein of government then be braced and held with a steady hand.

[T]he foundation of a great Empire is laid, and I please myself with a persuasion, that Providence will not leave its work imperfect.

Let us impart all the blessings we possess, or ask for ourselves, to the whole family of mankind.

Have the strength to be an honest person.

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.