We act not for ourselves but for the whole human race. The event of our experiment is to show whether man can be trusted with self - government.

But every difference of opinion is not a difference of principle.

Never throw off the best affections of nature in the moment when they become most precious to their object; nor fear to extend you hand to save another, lest you should sink yourself.

Difficulties indeed sometimes arise; but common sense and honest intentions will generally steer through them.

The right of self-government does not comprehend the government of others.

The fantastical idea of virtue and the public good being a sufficient security to the state against the commission of crimes, which you say you have heard insisted on by some, I assure you was never mine.

Believing that the happiness of mankind is best promoted by the useful pursuits of peace, that on these alone a stable prosperity can be founded, that the evils of war are great in their endurance, and have a long reckoning for ages to come, I have used my best endeavors to keep our country uncommitted in the troubles which afflict Europe, and which assail us on every side.