It is a universal truth that the loss of liberty at home is to be charged to the provisions against danger, real or pretended, from abroad.

Truth [comes only] from those ... who cultivate their reason.

The problem to be solved is, not what form of government is perfect, but which of the forms is least imperfect.

[In a democracy] a common passion or interest will, in almost every case , be felt by a majority of the whole; a communication and concert results from the form of government itself; and there is nothing to check the inducements to sacrifice the weaker party or an obnoxious individual.

Union of religious sentiments begets a surprising confidence.

The temple through which alone lies the road to that of Liberty.

In civilized communities, property as well as personal rights is an essential object of the laws, which encourage industry by securing the enjoyment of its fruits; that industry from which property results, and that enjoyment which consists not merely in its immediate use, but in its posthumous destination to objects of choice, and of kindred affection. In a just and free government, therefore, the rights both of property and of persons ought to be effectually guarded.