I do not pretend that language is science. It isan instrument for the attainment of science.

No man has a natural right to commit aggression on the equal rights of another; and this is all from which the laws ought to restrain him.

Resisting tyranny is obeying God

No provision in our Constitution ought to be dearer to man than that which protects the rights of conscience against the enterprises of the civil authority.

It is our duty still to endeavor to avoid war; but if it shall actually take place, no matter by whom brought on, we must defend ourselves. If our house be on fire, without inquiring whether it was fired from within or without, we must try to extinguish it.

Circumstances sometimes require, that rights the most unquestionable should be advanced with delicacy.

Give up money, give up fame, give up science, give the earth itself and all it contains, rather than do an immoral act.