It is only by prudence, wisdom, and dexterity that great ends are attained and obstacles overcome. Without these qualities nothing succeeds.

Posterity alone rightly judges kings. Posterity alone has the right to accord or withhold honors.

I believe love to be hurtful to society, and to the individual happiness of men. I believe, in short, that love does more harm than good.

To listen to the interests of all marks an ordinary government; to foresee them marks a great government.

America is a fortunate country. She grows by the follies of our European nations.

The greatest ornament of an illustrious life is modesty and humility, which go a great way in the character even of the most exalted princes.

The purpose of religion is to keep the poor from killing the rich.