John Paul Jones Quotes

I have not yet begun to fight!

Whoever can surprise well must conquer.

Nothing exciting ever happens to me.

I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast; for I intend to go in harm's way.

It seems to be a law of nature, inflexible and inexorable, that those who will not risk cannot win.

It is by no means enough that an officer should be capable. . . . He should be as well a gentleman of liberal education, refined manners, punctilious courtesy, and the nicest sense of personal honor. . . . No meritorious act of a subordinate should escape his attention, even if the reward be only one word of approval. Conversely, he should not be blind to a single fault in any subordinate.

...without a Respectable Navy, Alas America!

You understand why some animals eat their young.

It is true that I must run a great risk; no gallant action was ever accomplished without danger.

He who will not risk cannot win.

If fear is cultivated it will become stronger, if faith is cultivated it will achieve mastery.

Where men of fine feeling are concerned there is seldom misunderstanding.

I would lay down my life for America but I cannot trifle with my Honor.

An honorable Peace is and always was my first wish! I can take no delight in the effusion of human Blood; but, if this War should continue, I wish to have the most active part in it.

I may sink, but I'll be damned if I strike!