I am entirely persuaded that the agitations of the public mind advance its powers, and that at every vibration between the points of liberty and despotism, something will be gained for the former. As men become better informed, their rulers must respect them the more.

This I hope will be the age of experiments in government, and that their basis will be founded in principles of honesty, not of mere force.

The best hemp and the best tobacco grow on the same kind of soil. The former article is of the first necessity to the wealth and protection of the country. The latter, never useful.

Do not write me studied letters but ramble as you please.

I have always said that a studious perusal of the sacred volume will make better citizens, better fathers, and better husbands.

The only security of all is in a free press. The force of public opinion cannot be resisted when permitted freely to be expressed. The agitation it produces must be submitted to. It is necessary, to keep he waters pure.

Paper money is liable to be abused, has been, is, and forever will be abused, in every country in which it is permitted.