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

I have recently been examining all the known superstitions of the world and do not find in our particular superstition [Christianity] one redeeming feature.

In defense of our persons and properties under actual violation, we took up arms. When that violence shall be removed, when hostilities shall cease on the part of the aggressors, hostilities shall cease on our part also.

We see the wisdom of Solon's remark, that no more good must be attempted than the nation can bear.

The happiness of society depends so much on preventing party spirit from infecting the common intercourse of life, that nothing should be spared to harmonize and amalgamate the two parties in social circles.

It is an encouraging observation that no good measure was ever proposed which, if duly pursued, failed to prevail in the end.

Never throw off the best affections of nature in the moment when they become most precious to their object; nor fear to extend you hand to save another, lest you should sink yourself.