The issue for patents for new discovers has given a spring to invention beyond my conception.

The issuing power [of money] should be taken from the banks and restored to the people, to whom it properly belongs.

among the values of classical learning I estimate the Luxury of reading the Greek & Roman authors in all the beauties of their originals ... I think myself more indebted to my father for this, than for all the other luxuries his cares and affections have placed within my reach.

I deplore with you the putrid state into which our newspapers have passed, and the malignity, the vulgarity, and mendacious spirit of those who write for them. ... This has in a great degree been produced by the violence and malignity of party spirit.

Question with boldness even the existence of a god.

Every constitution..., and every law, naturally expires at the end of 19 years [a generation]. If it be enforced longer, it is anact of force, and not of right.

I prefer the tumult of liberty to the quiet of servitude