The Constitution that we have is an excellent one, if we can keep it where it is.

[T]here is no truth more thoroughly established, than that there exists . . . an indissoluble union between virtue and happiness.

The U.S. is a Government which to bigotry gives no sanction, to persecution no assistance.

Your late purchase of an estate in the colony of Cayenne, with a view to emancipating the slaves on it, is a generous and noble proof of your humanity. Would to God a like spirit would diffuse itself generally into the minds of the people of this country; but I despair of seeing it.

I am not only retired from all public employments, but I am retiring within myself, and shall be able to view the solitary walk and tread the paths of private life with heartfelt satisfaction.

It is incumbent upon every person of every description to contribute to his country's welfare.

Lenity will operate with greater force, in some instances, than rigor. It is, therefore, my first wish, to have my whole conduct distinguished by it.