We are not to expect to be translated from despotism to liberty in a featherbed.

The most valuable of all talents is that of never using two words when one will do.

We established however some, although not all its [self-government] important principles . The constitutions of most of our States assert, that all power is inherent in the people; that they may exercise it by themselves, in all cases to which they think themselves competent, (as in electing their functionaries executive and legislative, and deciding by a jury of themselves, in all judiciary cases in which any fact is involved,) or they may act by representatives, freely and equally chosen; that it is their right and duty to be at all times armed.

And even should the cloud of barbarism and despotism again obscure the science and libraries of Europe, this country remains to preserve and restore light and liberty to them.

I hope our wisdom will grow with our power, and teach us, that the less we use our power the greater it will be.

I have now the gloomy prospect of retiring from office loaded with serious debts, which will materially affect the tranquility of my retirement.

I am not among those who fear the people. They, and not the rich, are our dependence for continued freedom.