The superstition of science scoffs at the superstition of faith.

The practical effect of a belief is the real test of its soundness.

I cannot think the disputes and jealousies of Heaven are tried and settled by the swords of earth.

Where nature is sovereign, there is no need of austerity and self-denial.

The first duty of an historian is to be on his guard against his own sympathies...

Crime is not punished as an offense against God, but as prejudicial to society.

True greatness is the most ready to recognize and most willing to obey those simple outward laws which have been sanctioned by the experience of mankind.