Where annual elections end, there slavery begins ... Humility, patience, and moderation, without which every man in power becomes a ravenous beast of prey.

There's no such thing as a free lunch, unless you have a coupon for a free lunch...or someone gives you a lunch...never mind.

A native of America who cannot read or write is . . . as rare as a comet or an earthquake.

The consequences arising from the continual accumulation of public debts in other countries ought to admonish us to prevent their growth in our own.

The study and practice of law ... does not dissolve the obligations of morality or of religion.

I have examined all religions, as well as my narrow sphere, my straightened means, and my busy life, would allow; and the result is that the Bible is the best Book in the world. It contains more philosophy than all the libraries I have seen.

There is danger from all men. The only maxim of a free government ought to be to trust no man living with power to endanger the public liberty.