The reward of esteem, respect and gratitude [is] due to those who devote their time and efforts to render the youths of every successive age fit governors for the next.

The true foundation of republican government is the equal right of every citizen in his person and property and in their management.

Well, Page, I do wish the Devil had old Cooke, for I am sure I never was so tired of an old dull scoundrel in my life ... But the old-fellows say we must read to gain knowledge; and gain knowledge to make us happy and be admired. Mere jargon! Is there any such thing as happiness in this world? No.

Our ancestors ... possessed a right, which nature has given to all men, of departing from the country in which chance, not choice has placed them.

Questions of natural right are triable by their conformity with the moral sense and reason of man.

Question boldly even the existence of God.

One of my favorite ideas is, never to keep an unnecessary soldier.