The question whether the judges are invested with exclusive authority to decide on the constitutionality of a law has been heretofore a subject of consideration with me in the exercise of official duties. Certainly there is not a word in the Constitution which has given that power to them more than to the Executive or Legislative branches.

Some other natural rights... [have] not yet entered into any declaration of rights.

Traveling makes men wiser, but less happy.

The Christian religion is the best religion that has ever been given to man

Leave all the afternoon for exercise and recreation, which are as necessary as reading. I will rather say more necessary because health is worth more than learning.

I do verily believe that a single, consolidated government would become the most corrupt government on the earth.

No one has a right to obstruct another exercising his faculties innocently for the relief of sensibilities made a part of his nature.