“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.”

Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism.

To encourage literature and the arts is a duty which every good citizen owes to his country.

Worry is the interest paid by those who borrow trouble.

My mother was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. All I am I owe to my mother.

Religion is a byproduct of fear.

To the distinguished character of patriot, it should be our highest glory to add the more distinguished character of Christian.

Gentlemen, you will permit me to put on my spectacles, for, I have grown not only gray, but almost blind in the service of my country.

Those who have committed no faults want no pardon. We are only defending what we deem our indisputable rights.

The experience of every age and nation has proved it and we must in a great measure.

A man ought not to value himself of his achievements or rare qualities of wit, much less of his riches, virtue or kindred.

True friendship is a plant of slow growth, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is entitled to appellation.

Few men are capable of making a continual sacrifice of all views of private interest, or advantage, to the common good.

We began a contest for liberty ill provided with the means for the war, relying on our patriotism to supply the deficiency.

It is now no more that toleration is spoken of, as if it was by the indulgence of one class of people.

Real men despise battle, but will never run from it.

System to all things is the soul of business. To execute properly and act maturely is the way to conduct it to your advantage.