The first thing I have at heart is American liberty; the second thing is American union.

Fear is the passion of slaves.

The question before the House is one of awful moment to this country. For my own part, I consider it as nothing less than a question of freedom or slavery

The battle is not to the strong alone. It is to the vigilant, the active, and the brave. A small, disciplined militia can not only hold out against a larger force, but drive it back, because what they're fighting for rightfully belongs to them.

We are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of Nature has placed in our power... the battle, sir, is not to the strong alone it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave.

Being a Christian... is a character which I prize far above all this world has or can boast.

For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst and provide for it.