Human rights can only be assured among a virtuous people. The general government . . . can never be in danger of degenerating into a monarchy, an oligarchy, an aristocracy, or any despotic or oppresive form so long as there is any virtue in the body of the people.

I will move gently down the stream of life until I sleep with my fathers.

[Let] the poor the needy and oppressed of the Earth, and those who want Land, resort to the fertile lands of our western country, the second land of Promise, and there dwell in peace, fulfilling the first and great commandment.

A slender acquaintance with the world must convince every man that actions, not words, are the true criterion of the attachment of friends.

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

A variety in punishment is of utility, as well as a proportion.

It is our policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world.