On the human imagination, events produce the effects of time. Thus, he who has travelled far and seen much, is apt to fancy that he has lived long; and the history that most abounds in important incidents, soonest assumes the aspect of antiquity.

Systems are to be appreciated by their general effects, and not by particular exceptions.

Battles, unlike bargains, are rarely discussed in society.

Individuality is the aim of political liberty.

No civilized society can long exist, with an active power in its bosom that is stronger than the law.

Principles . . . become modified in practice, by facts.

In America, it is indispensable that every well wisher of true liberty should understand that acts of tyranny can only proceed from the publick. The publick, then, is to be watched, in this country, as, in other countries kings and aristocrats are to be watched.