One precedent in favor of power is stronger than a hundred against it.

Choice by the people themselves is not generally distinguished for its wisdom.

Christianity neither is, nor ever was a part of the common law.

You have not been mistaken in supposing my views and feeling to be in favor of the abolition of war. Of my dispos[i]tion to maintain peace until its condition shall be made less tolerable than that of war itself, the world has had proofs, and more, perhaps, than it has approved. I hope it is practicable, by improving the mind and morals of society, to lessen the dispos[i]tion to war; but of its abolition I despair.

Power is not alluring to pure minds.

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

Responsibility is a tremendous engine in a free government.