Civilized people are taught by logic, barbarians, by necessity, communities by tradition; and the lesson inculcated even in wild beasts by nature itself. They learn that they have to defend their own bodies and persons lives from violence of any and every kind by all means within their power.

Ability without honor is useless.

It is difficult to persuade mankind that the love of virtue is the love of themselves.

Take from a man his reputation for probity, and the more shrewd and clever he is, the more hated and mistrusted he becomes.

It is better to receive than to do injury.

It is necessary for a Senator to be thoroughly acquainted with the constitution; and this is a knowledge of the most extensive nature; a matter of science, of diligence, of reflection, without which no Senator can possibly be fit for his office.

No tempest or conflagration, however great, is harder to quell than mob carried away by the novelty of power.