I am of opinion that national greatness is more for the advantage of private citizens, than any individual well-being coupled with public humiliation. A man may be personally ever so well off, and yet if his country be ruined he must be ruined with it; whereas a flourishing commonwealth always affords chances of salvation to unfortunate individuals.

Our form of government does not enter into rivalry with the institutions of others. Our government does not copy our neighbors', but is an example to them. It is true that we are called a democracy, for the administration is in the hands of the many and not of the few. But while there exists equal justice to all and alike in their private disputes, the claim of excellence is also recognized; and when a citizen is in any way distinguished, he is preferred to the public service, not as a matter of privilege, but as the reward of merit

For a man's counsel cannot have equal weight or worth, when he alone has no children to risk in the general danger.

We do not imitate, but are a model to others.

Time as he grows old teaches many lessons. - Aeschylus Time is the wisest counselor of all.

She is best who is least spoken of among men, whether for good or evil.

I am more afraid of our own mistakes than of our enemies' designs.