The main objects of all science, the freedom and happiness of man. . . . [are] the sole objects of all legitimate government.(A plaque with this quotation, with the first phrase omitted, is in the stairwell of the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty.)

Of all the cankers of human happiness, none corrodes it with so silent, yet so baneful, a tooth, as indolence.

I have given up newspapers in exchange for Tacitus and Thucydides, for Newton and Euclid; and I find myself much the happier.

The happiest moments of my life have been the few which I have passed at home in the bosom of my family.

A mind always employed is always happy. This is the true secret, the grand recipe, for felicity.

Industry, commerce and security are the surest roads to the happiness and prosperity of people.

The purpose of government is to enable the people of a nation to live in safety and happiness. Government exists for the interests of the governed, not for the governors.

Public employment contributes neither to advantage nor happiness. It is but honorable exile from one's family and affairs.

Of all the cankers of human happiness none corrodes with so silent, yet so baneful an influence, as indolence.