A government held together by the bands of reason only, requires much compromise of opinion.

Those are governed best who are governed least.

It is a [disputed] question, whether the circulation of paper, rather than of specie [gold and silver coin], is a good or an evil I believe it to be one of those cases where mercantile clamor will bear down reason, until it is corrected by ruin.

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

A little rebellion is a good thing.

The fore horse of this frightful team is public debt. Taxation follow that, and in its turn wretchedness and oppression.

Never suppose that in any possible situation or under any circumstances that it is best for you to do a dishonorable thing however slightly so it may appear to you... Encourage all your virtuous dispositions, and exercise them whenever an opportunity arises, being assured that they will gain strength by exercise ... and that exercise will make them habitual.