The true theory of our Constitution is surely the wisest and best, that the states are independent as to everything within themselves and united as to everything respecting foreign nations. Let the general government be reduced to foreign concerns only.

A Bill of Rights is what the people are entitled to against every government, and what no just government should refuse, or rest on inference.

Man is not made for the State but the State for man and it derives its just powers only from the consent of the governed.

A share in the sovereignty of the state, which is exercised by the citizens at large, in voting at elections is one of the most important rights of the subject, and in a republic ought to stand foremost in the estimation of the law.

Blest is that nation whose silent course of happiness furnishes nothing for history to say.

The most uninformed mind with a healthy body is happier than the wisest valetudinarian.

The selfish spirit of commerce, which knows no country, and feels no passion or principle but that of gain.