Every State has a natural right in cases not within the compact (casus non faederis) to nullify of their own authority all assumptions of power by others within their limits. Without this right, they would be under the dominion, absolute and unlimited, of whosoever might exercise this right of judgment for them.

Shake off all the fears and servile prejudices under which weak minds are servilely crouched. Fix reason firmly in her seat, and call to her tribunal every fact, every opinion. Question with boldness even the existence of a god; because, if there be one, he must more approve the homage of reason, than that of blindfolded fear... Your own reason is the only oracle given you by heaven, and you are answerable not for the rightness but uprightness of the decision.

Ignorance is a poor tool in a battle of wits.

Good humor is one of the preservatives of our peace and tranquility.

Hemp is of first necessity to the wealth & protection of the country.

No generation has a right to contract debts greater than can be paid off during the course of its own existence.

Merchants have no country. The mere spot they stand on does not constitute so strong an attachment as that from which they draw their gains.