I am not myself apt to be alarmed at innovations recommended by reason. That dread belongs to those whose interests or prejudices shrink from the advance of truth and science.

The Declaration of Independence . . . [is the] declaratory charter of our rights, and the rights of man.

Agriculture is at the same time the most tranquil, healthy, and independent occupation.

Errors of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it.

The application requisite to the duties of the office I hold [governor of Virginia] is so excessive, and the execution of them after all so imperfect, that I have determined to retire from it at the close of the present campaign.

Whiskey claims to itself alone the exclusive office of sot-making.

An honest man can feel no pleasure in the exercise of power over his fellow citizens . . . There has never been a moment of my life in which I should have relinquished for it the enjoyments of my family, my farm, my friends and books.