The interests of a nation, when well understood, will be found to coincide with their moral duties.

I have no fear that the result of our experiment will be that men may be trusted to govern themselves without a master.

Our minds and hearts are free to believe everything or nothing at all - and it is our duty to protect and perpetuate this sacred culture of freedom.

Above all things, and at all times, practice yourself in good humor.

[A] spirit of justice and friendly accomodation...is our duty and our interest to cultivate with all nations.

Of all the errors which can possibly be committed to the education of youth, that of sending them to Europe is the most fatal. I see [clearly] that no American should come to Europe under 30 years of age.

I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just: that his justice cannot sleep forever: that, considering numbers, nature, and natural means only, a revolution of the wheel of fortune, an exchange of situation, is among possible events: that it may become probable by supernatural interference! The Almighty has no attribute which can take side with us in such a contest.