Edmund Burke: “I know it is common for men to say, that such and such things are perfectly right, very desirable,--but that…”

Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.

But when the leaders choose to make themselves bidders at an auction of popularity, their talents, in the construction of the state, will be of no service.

I would not exclude alteration neither; but even when I changed, it should be to preserve.

They come from one who has been no tool of power, no flatterer of greatness, and who in his last acts does not wish to belie the tenor of his life.