Strive not with your superiors in argument, but always submit your judgment to others with modesty.

Every day the increasing weight of years admonishes me more and more, that the shade of retirement is as necessary to me as it will be welcome.

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

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.

Not only do I pray for it, on the score of human dignity, but I can clearly forsee that nothing but the rooting out of slavery can perpetuate the existence of our union, by consolidating it in a common bond of principle.

They will avoid ... those Overgrown Military establishements which ... are ... particularly hostile to Republican liberty.

I have no other view than to promote the public good, and am unambitious of honors not founded in the approbation of my Country.