A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.

War should only be declared by the authority of the people, whose toils and treasures are to support its burdens, instead of the government which is to reap its fruits.

I hope this will find you...enjoying the commencement of a new year with every prospect that can make it a happy one.

Wherever there is interest and power to do wrong, wrong will generally be done.

I go on the principle that a public debt is a public curse and in a republican government more than in any other.

A victorious and powerful ally is but another name for a master.

The advancement and diffusion of knowledge is the only guardian of true liberty.