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.

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

Be courteous to all, but intimate with few; and let those be well-tried before you give them your confidence.

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

We must consult our means rather than our wishes.

Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all.

To persevere in one’s duty, and be silent is the best answer to calumny

There is nothing so likely to produce peace as to be well prepared to meet the enemy.

I hold the maxim no less applicable to public than to private affairs, that honesty is always the best policy.

Let your heart feel for the afflictions and distress of everyone.

It is substantially true, that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. The rule, indeed, extends with more or less force to every species of free government.

No punishment, in my opinion, is to great, for the man who can build his greatness upon his country’s ruin.

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.

Be not glad at the misfortune of another, though he may be your enemy.

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

[Death] … the abyss from where no traveler is permitted to return.

It is absolutely necessary… for me to have persons that can think for me, as well as execute orders.

99% percent of failures are the ones who make excuses.

A bad war is fought with a good mind.