The necessity of reciprocal checks in the exercise of political power, by dividing and distributing it into different depositories, and constituting each the guardian of the public weal against invasions by the others, has been evinced by experiments ancient and modern, some of them in our country and under our own eyes.

[The adoption of the Constitution] will demonstrate as visibly the finger of Providence as any possible event in the course of human affairs can ever designate it.

Went to church and fasted all day.

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

The Constitution is the guide which I never will abandon.

I am persuaded, you will permit me to observe, that the path of true piety is so plain as to require but little political direction.

Can it be, that Providence has not connected the permanent felicity of a Nation with its virtue? The experiment, at least, is recommended by every sentiment which ennobles human Nature. Alas! is it rendered impossible by its vices?