The work of internal government has become the task of controlling the thousands of fifth-rate men.

Whenever a man reaches the top of the political ladder, his enemies unite to pull him down. His friends become critical and exacting.

We combat obstacles in order to get repose, and when got, the repose is insupportable.

In the history of the United States, there is no continuity at all. You can cut through it anywhere and nothing on this side of the cut has anything to do with anything on the other side.

The historian must not try to know what is truth, if he values his honesty; for if he cares for his truths, he is certain to falsify his facts.

The American President resembles the commander of a ship at sea. He must have a helm to grasp, a course to steer, a port to seek.

Thank God, I never was cheerful. I come from the happy stock of the Mathers, who, as you remember, passed sweet mornings reflecting on the goodness of God and the damnation of infants.