[n regard to Jesus believing himself inspired] This belief carried no more personal imputation than the belief of Socrates that he was under the care and admonition of a guardian demon. And how many of our wisest men still believe in the reality of these inspirations while perfectly sane on all other subjects

An honest heart being the first blessing, a knowing head is the second.

I have learned to be less confident in the conclusions of human reason, and give more credit to the honesty of contrary opinions.

Still less let it be proposed that our properties within our own territories shall be taxed or regulated by any power on earth but our own.

It can never be too often repeated, that the time for fixing every essential right on a legal basis is while our rulers are honest, and ourselves united.

Never trouble another for what you can do yourself

Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because, if there be one, he must more approve the homage of reason, than that of blindfolded fear.... Do not be frightened from this inquiry from any fear of its consequences. If it ends in the belief that there is no God, you will find incitements to virtue in the comfort and pleasantness you feel in its exercise.