They whose minds are least sensitive to calamity, and whose hands are most quick to meet it, are the greatest men and the greatest communities.

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.

The secret of freedom, courage.

For so remarkably perverse is the nature of man that he despises whoever courts him, and admires whoever will not bend before him.

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

Abstinence from all injustice to other first-rate powers is a greater tower of strength than anything that can be gained by the sacrifice of permanent tranquillity for an apparent temporary advantage.

Three of the gravest failings, want of sense, of courage, or of vigilance.