The tendency of democracies is, in all things, to mediocrity, since the tastes, knowledge, and principles of the majority form the tribunal of appeal.

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.

I've heard it said that there are men who read in books to convince themselves there is a God. I know not but man may so deform his works in the settlements, as to leave that which is so clear in the wilderness a matter of doubt among traders and priests.

If the newspapers are useful in overthrowing tyrants, it is only to establish a tyranny of their own.

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

The sublimity connected with vastness, is familiar to every eye.

Contact with the affairs of state is one of the most corrupting of the influences to which men are exposed.