In America, no other distinction between man and man had ever been known but that of persons in office exercising powers by authority of the laws, and private individuals. Among these last, the poorest laborer stood on equal ground with the wealthiest millionaire, and generally on a more favored one whenever their rights seem to jar.

The precepts of philosophy and of the Hebrew code, laid hold of actions only. (Jesus) pushed his scrutinies into the heart of man, erected his tribunal in the regions of his thoughts, and purified the waters at the fountain head.

The ocean ... like the air, is the common birth-right of mankind.

Dispositions of the mind, like limbs of the body, acquire strength by exercise.

I join you therefore in branding as cowardly the idea that the human mind is incapable of further advances.

We ought not to schismatize on either men or measures. Principles alone can justify that.

In defense of our persons and properties under actual violation, we took up arms. When that violence shall be removed, when hostilities shall cease on the part of the aggressors, hostilities shall cease on our part also.