We can not guarantee success, we can strive to deserve it.

[T]he first transactions of a nation, like those of an individual upon his first entrance into life make the deepest impression, and are to form the leading traits in its character.

Passionate attachment to another nation produces a variety of evils... the illusion of common interests where no real common interests exist; adopting the enmities of the other; and participation in the quarrels and wars of the other without any justification. Still another evil is that such a passionate attachment gives to ambitious, corrupted, or deluded citizens the facility to betray or sacrifice the interests of their own country.

Do not let anyone claim tribute of American patriotism if they even attempt to remove religion from politics.

A people... who are possessed of the spirit of commerce, who see and who will pursue their advantages may achieve almost anything.

To every description of citizens, let praise be given. but let them persevere in their affectionate vigilance over that precious depository of American happiness, the Constitution of the United States. Let them cherish it, too, for the sake of those who, from every clime, are daily seeking a dwelling in our land.

Be courteous to all, but intimate with few, and let those few be well tried before you give them your confidence.