I am not blaming those who are resolved to rule, only those who show an even greater readiness to submit.

Some legislators only wish to vengeance against a particular enemy. Others only look out for themselves. They devote very little time on the consideration of any public issue. They think that no harm will come from their neglect. They act as if it is always the business of somebody else to look after this or that. When this selfish notion is entertained by all, the commonwealth slowly begins to decay.

Few things are brought to a successful issue by impetuous desire, but most by calm and prudent forethought.

When tremendous dangers are involved, no one can be blamed for looking to his own interest.

It is a common mistake in going to war to begin at the wrong end, to act first, and wait for disasters to discuss the matter.

War is an evil thing; but to submit to the dictation of other states is worse.... Freedom, if we hold fast to it, will ultimately restore our losses, but submission will mean permanent loss of all that we value.... To you who call yourselves men of peace, I say: You are not safe unless you have men of action on your side.

We must remember that one man is much the same as another, and that he is best who is trained in the severest school.