You must study to be frank with the world: frankness is the child of honesty and courage. Say just what you mean to do on every occasion, and take it for granted that you mean to do right.

True patriotism sometimes requires of men to act exactly contrary, at one period, to that which it does at another, and the motive which impels them the desire to do right is precisely the same.

A Union that can only be maintained by swords and bayonets, and in which strife and civil war are to take the place of brotherly love and kindness, has no charm for me.

The education of a man is never completed until he dies.

I tremble for my country when I hear of confidence expressed in me. I know too well my weakness, that our only hope is in God.

Death, in its silent sure march is fast gathering those whom I have longest loved, so that when he shall knock at my door, I will more willingly follow.

I consider the proper education of our youths one of the most important objects now to be attained and one from which the greatest benefits may be expected.