There is no virtue which does not rejoice a well-descended nature; there is a kind of I know not what congratulation in well-doing, that gives us an inward satisfaction, and a certain generous boldness that accompanies a good conscience.

I neither complain of the past, nor do I fear the future.

The public weal requires that men should betray, and lie, and massacre.

I am further of opinion that it would be better for us to have [no laws] at all than to have them in so prodigious numbers as we have.

The clatter of arms drowns out the voice of law.

Only he can judge of matters great and high whose soul is likewise.

It is an absolute perfection... to get the very most out of one's individuality.