I rejoice in a belief that intellectual light will spring up in the dark corners of the earth; that freedom of enquiry will produce liberality of conduct; that mankind will reverse the absurd position that the many were, made for the few; and that they will not continue slaves in one part of the globe, when they can become freemen in another.

I do not mean to exclude altogether the idea of patriotism. I know it exists, and I know it has done much in the present contest. But I will venture to assert, that a great and lasting war can never be supported on this principle alone. It must be aided by a prospect of interest, or some reward.

Few men have virtue to withstand the highest bidder.

Where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation deserts the oaths . . . ?

Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.

[Avoid] likewise the accumulation of debt.

The United States of America should have a foundation free from the influence of clergy.