Thomas Paine

One member says this is Constitution, and another says that is Constitution--To-day it is one thing; and to-morrow something else--while the maintaining of the debate proves there is none.

As the present generation of the people in England did not make the Government, they are not accountable for any of its defects; but, that sooner or later, it must come into their hands to undergo a constitutional reformation, is as…

If any credit is given, it is to the disposition of the people to pay the tax, and not to the government, which lays it on.

When this disposition expires, what is supposed to be the credit of Government expires with it.

Among others, it shows that a government may be in a state of insolvency and a nation rich.

A government may be said to be insolvent every time it applies to the nation to discharge its arrears.

A constitution is not a thing in name only, but in fact.

I do not believe that monarchy and aristocracy will continue seven years longer in any of the enlightened countries in Europe.

What is the history of all monarchical governments but a disgustful picture of human wretchedness, and the accidental respite of a few years' repose?

Reason and Ignorance, the opposites of each other, influence the great bulk of mankind.

He sees the rationale of the whole system, its origin and its operation; and as it is best supported when best understood, the human faculties act with boldness, and acquire, under this form of government, a gigantic manliness.

Are not conquest and defeat each of the same price, and taxes the never-failing consequence?--Though this reasoning may be good to a nation, it is not so to a government.