The proposed Constitution is, in strictness, neither a national nor a federal constitution; but a composition of both.
James Madison[In government] the constant aim is to divide and arrange the several offices in such a manner as that each may be a check on the other-that the private interest of every individual may be a sentinel over the public rights.
James MadisonIn framing a system, which we wish to last for ages, we should not lose sight of the changes which ages will produce.
James MadisonWith respect to the words "general welfare," I have always regarded them as qualified by the detail of powers connected with them. To take them in a literal and unlimited sense would be a metamorphosis of the Constitution into a character which there is a host of proofs was not contemplated by its creators.
James Madison