Property is surely a right of mankind as real as liberty.

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'.

Children should be educated and instructed in the principles of freedom.

Individuals have conquered themselves. Nations and large bodies of men, never.

Vanity, I am sensible, is my cardinal vice and cardinal folly; and I am in continual danger, when in company, of being led an ignis fatuus chase by it.

I am well pleased with what I hear of you: The principal Satisfaction I can expect in Life, in future will be in your good Behavior and that of my other Children. My Hopes from all of you are very agreable. God grant, I may not be disappointed.

Have you considered that system of holy lies and pious frauds that has raged and triumphed for 1,500 years?