No other depositories of power [but the people themselves] have ever yet been found, which did not end in converting to their own profit the earnings of those committed to their charge.

It is neither wealth nor splendor; but tranquility and occupation which give you happiness.

For here we are not afraid to follow truth wherever it may lead.

The human character, we believe, requires in general constant and immediate control to prevent its being biased from right by the seductions of self-love.

If there be any among us who wish to dissolve the Union or to change its republican form, let them stand undisturbed, as monuments of the safety with which error of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it.

The chief purpose of government is to protect life. Abandon that and you have abandoned all.

Establish the eternal truth that acquiescence under insult is not the way to escape war.