Practically and commercially speaking, a dollar is not necessarily a specific thing, made of silver, or gold, or any other single metal, or substance. It is only such a quantum of market value as exists in a given piece of silver or gold.

In reality there is no such thing as an inflation of prices, relatively to gold. There is such a thing as a depreciated paper currency.

Vices are those acts by which a man harms himself or his property. Crimes are those acts by which one man harms the person or property of another.

Vices are not crimes.

A man is no less a slave because he is allowed to choose a new master once in a term of years.

The constitution of the United States declares that "no State shall pass any law impairing the obligation of contracts."

The single despot stands out in the face of all men, and says: I am the State: My will is law: I am your master: I take the responsibility of my acts: The only arbiter I acknowledge is the sword: If any one denies my right, let him try conclusions with me.