Government is only a necessary evil, like other go-carts and crutches. Our need of it shows exactly how far we are still children. All governing overmuch kills the self-help and energy of the governed.

Two kinds of men generally best succeed in political life; men of no principle, but of great talent; and men of no talent, but of one principle - that of obedience to their superiors.

Law is nothing unless close behind it stands a warm, living public opinion.

One on God's side is a majority.

Hearts are stronger than swords.

The condition upon which God hath given liberty to man is eternal vigilance.

Governments exist to protect the rights of minorities. The loved and the rich need no protection: they have many friends and few enemies.