Most men with nothing would rather protect the possibility of becoming rich than face the reality of being poor.

Experience must be our only guide. Reason may mislead us.

The power of the people pervading the proposed system, together with the strong confederation of the states, will form an adequate security against every danger that has been apprehended.

If the General Government should be left dependent on the State Legislatures, it would be happy for us if we had never met in this room.

Let us take care of our rights and we therein take care of our prosperity. Slavery is ever preceded by sleep

Our cause is just. Our union is perfect.

The rights essential to happiness. . . . We claim them from a higher source - from the King of kings and Lord of all the earth.