The benefit of even limited monopolies is too doubtful, to be opposed to that of their general suppression.

Independence can be trusted nowhere but with the people in mass. They are inherently independent of all but moral law.

Choice by the people themselves is not generally distinguished for its wisdom.

None but an armed nation can dispense with a standing army. To keep ours armed and disciplined is therefore at all times important.

I do not agree that an age of pleasure is no compensation for a moment of pain.

It should be our endeavor to cultivate the peace and friendship of every nation, even of that which has injured us most.

The most effective means of preventing tyranny is to illuminate, as far as practicable, the minds of the people at large, and more especially to give them knowledge of those facts.