“Experience teaches us that it is much easier to prevent an enemy from posting themselves than it is to dislodge them after they have got possession.”

I hope I shall possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles, the character of an honest man.

If freedom of speech is taken away, then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter.

Every day the increasing weight of years admonishes me more and more, that the shade of retirement is as necessary to me as it will be welcome.

The reflection upon my situation and that of this army produces many an uneasy hour when all around me are wrapped in sleep. Few people know the predicament we are in.

Of all the animosities which have existed among mankind, those which are caused by a difference of sentiments in religion appear to be the most inveterate and distressing, and ought most to be deprecated.

To be prepared for war is one of the most effective means of preserving peace.

The chief duty of the National Government in connection with the currency of the country is to coin money and declare its value.

A primary object should be the education of our youth in the science of government.

Labor to keep alive in your breast that little spark of celestial fire called conscience.

Few men have virtue to withstand the highest bidder.

Promote, then, as an object of primary importance, institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge.

The great rule of conduct for us, in regard to foreign nations, is, in extending our commercial relations, to have with them as little political connection as possible.

Decision making, like coffee, needs a cooling process.

Strive not with your superiors in argument, but always submit your judgement to others with modesty.

I had rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world.

A small knowledge of human nature will convince us, that, with far the greatest part of mankind, interest is the governing principle; and that almost every man is more or less, under its influence.