The prospect, that a good general government will in all human probability be soon established in America, affords me more substantial satisfaction; than I have ever before derived from any political event. Because there is a rational ground for believing that not only the happiness of my own countrymen, but that of mankind in general, will be promoted by it.

Associate with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation; for it is better to be alone than in bad company.

[L]eave nothing to the uncertainty of procuring a warlike apparatus at the moment of public danger.

... the benefit arising from moderate use of strong Liquor have been experienced in all Armies, and are not to be disputed.

No measure can be more desirable, whether viewed with an eye to its intrinsic importance, or to the general sentiment and wish of the Nation than to establish a systematic and effectual arrangement for the regular redemption and discharge of the public debt.

Harmony, liberal intercourse with all nations, are recommended by policy, humanity, and interest.

In the appointments to the great offices of the government, my aim has been to combine geographical situation, and sometimes other considerations, with abilities and fitness of known characters.