Liberty is to the collective body, what health is to every individual body. Without health no pleasure can be tasted by man; without liberty, no happiness can be enjoyed by society.

Our particular principles of religion are a subject of accountability to God alone.

I value peace, and I should unwillingly see any event take place which would render war a necessary resource.

The trifling economy of paper, as a cheaper medium, or its convenience for transmission, weighs nothing in opposition to the advantages of the precious metals it is liable to be abused, has been, is, and forever will be abused, in every country in which it is permitted.

Peace with all nations, and the right which that gives us with respect to all nations, are our object.

Those characters wherein fear predominates over hope may apprehend too much from...instances of irregularity. They may conclude too hastily that nature has formed man insusceptible of any other government than that of force, a conclusion not founded in truth nor experience.

I have no ambition to govern men; it is a painful and thankless office.