When legislature is corrupted, the people are undone.

I desire no other inscription over my gravestone than: 'Here lies John Adams, who took upon himself the responsibility of peace with France in the year 1800'.

Thanks be to God, that he gave me Stubborness, when I know I am right.

Had I been chosen President again, I am certain I could not have lived another year.

During the whole time I sat with him in Congress, I never heard him utter three sentences together.

Have you ever found in history, one single example of a nation, thoroughly corrupted, that was afterwards restored to virtue? And without virtue there can be no political liberty.

The form of government which you admire, when its principles are pure is admirable indeed. It is productive of every Thing which is great and excellent among men. But its principles are as easily destroyed as human nature is corrupted. Such a government is only to be supported by pure religion or Austere morals.