I see,... and with the deepest affliction, the rapid strides with which the federal branch of our government is advancing towards the usurpation of all the rights reserved to the States, and the consolidation in itself of all powers, foreign and domestic; and that, too, by constructions which, if legitimate, leave no limits to their power... It is but too evident that the three ruling branches of [the Federal government] are in combination to strip their colleagues, the State authorities, of the powers reserved by them, and to exercise themselves all functions foreign and domestic.

I long to be in the midst of the children, and have more pleasure in their little follies than in the wisdom of the wise.

We are completely saddled and bridled, and... the bank is so firmly mounted on us that we must go where it will guide.

The sovereign invigorator of the body is exercise, and of all the exercises walking is the best.

Take more pleasure in giving what is best to another than in having it for yourself, and then all the world will love you.

I deny the power of the general government to making paper money, or anything else a legal tender.

I shall see with sincere satisfaction the progress of those sentiments which tend to restore to man all his natural rights, convinced he has no natural right in opposition to his social duties.