"The best government is that which governs least."

"The operations of the executive power are generally for the public good, and when they are not, they are generally checked by the Legislature."

"I had rather be in my bed than up in the Senate."

"I am not a Federalist, because I never submitted the whole system of my opinions to the creed of any party of men whatever, in religion, in philosophy, in politics, or in anything else, where I was ca…"

"I am persuaded myself that the good sense of the people will always be found to be the best army. They may be led astray for a moment, but will soon correct themselves."