I am sorry they began their deliberations by so abominable a precedent as that of tying up the tongues of their members. Nothing can justify this example but the innocence of their intentions and ignorance of the value of public discussions. I have no doubt that all their other measures will be good and wise. It is really an assembly of demigods.

The juries are our judges of all fact, and of law when they choose it.

I have overlived the generation with which mutual labors & perils begat mutual confidence and influence.

Music...This is the favorite passion of my soul.

Do not bite at the bait of pleasure, till you know there is no hook beneath it.

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

When I hear another express an opinion which is not mine, I say to myself, he has a right to his opinion, as I to mine. Why should I question it? His error does me no injury, and shall I become a Don Quixote, to bring all men by force of argument to one opinion? ...Be a listener only, keep within yourself, and endeavor to establish with yourself the habit of silence, especially in politics.