The functionaries of every government have propensities to command at will the liberty and property of their constituents. There is no safe deposit for these but with the people themselves, nor can they be safe with them without information. Where the press is free, and every man able to read, all is safe.

A candle loses nothing when it lights another candle.

I am never tempted to pray but when a warm feeling for my friends comes athwart my heart.

In every country and in every age, the priest has been hostile to liberty. He is always in alliance with the despot, abetting his abuses in return for protection to his own.

Government can do something for the people only in proportion as it can do something to the people.

I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that his justice cannot sleep forever.

Civil government being the sole object of forming societies, its administration must be conducted by common consent.