I am sure that in estimating every man's value either in private or public life, a pure integrity is the quality we take first into calculation, and that learning and talents are only the second.

I am tired of a life of contention, and of being the personal object for the hatred of every man, who hates the present state of things.

The only foundation for useful education in a republic is to be laid in religion.

I have nothing but contempt for anyone who can spell a word in only one way.

The people of every country are the only safe guardians of their own rights, and are the only instruments which can be used for their destruction. And certainly they would never consent to be so used were they not deceived. To avoid this they should be instructed to a certain degree.

I can scarcely contemplate a more incalculable evil than the breaking of the Union into two or more parts.

Civil officials have no business meddling in private religious affairs.