Republics demanded virtue. Monarchies could rely on coercion and "dazzling splendor" to suppress self-interest or factions; republics relied on the goodness of the people to put aside private interest for public good. The imperatives of virtue attached all sorts of desiderata to the republican citizen: simplicity, frugality, sobriety, simple manners, Christian benevolence, duty to the polity. Republics called on other virtues--spiritedness, courage--to protect the polity from external threats. Tyrants kept standing armies; republics relied on free yeomen, defending their own land.

The Executive is charged officially in the Departments under it with the disbursement of the public money, and is responsible for the faithful application of it to the purposes for which it is raised. The Legislature is the watchful guardian over the public purse. It is its duty to see that the disbursement has been honestly made.

To impose taxes when the public exigencies require them is an obligation of the most sacred character, especially with a free people.

The best form of government is that which is most likely to prevent the greatest sum of evil.

Let us by wise and constitutional measures promote intelligence among the people as the best means of preserving our liberties.

A free, virtuous, and enlightened people must know full well the great principles and causes upon which their happiness depends.

Our relations with the other powers of Europe have experienced no essential change since the last session.