An honest man can feel no pleasure in the exercise of power over his fellow citizens.

My principles, and those always received by the republicans, do not admit to removing any person from office merely for a difference of political opinion. Malversations in office, and the exerting of official influence to control the freedom of election are good causes for removal.

The world is indebted for all triumphs which have been gained by reason and humanity over error and oppression.

Nothing is more certainly written in the book of fate than that these people are to be free.

A properly functioning democracy depends on an informed electorate.

The true foundation of republican government is the equal right of every citizen in his person and property and in their management.

A strict observance of the written laws is doubtless one of the highest virtues of a good citizen, but it is not the highest. The laws of necessity, of self-preservation, of saving our country when in danger, are of higher obligation. To lose our country by a scrupulous adherence to written law would be to lose the law itself, with life, liberty, property and all those who are enjoying them with us; thus absurdly sacrificing the end to the means.