War, in its fairest form, implies a perpetual violation of humanity and justice.

The single combats of the heroes of history or fable amuse our fancy and engage our affections: the skillful evolutions of war may inform the mind, and improve a necessary, though pernicious, science. But in the uniform and odious pictures of a general assault, all is blood, and horror, and confusion . . .

History is indeed little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind.

[Every] hour of delay abates the fame and force of the invader, and multiplies the resources of defensive war.

[Peace] cannot be honorable or secure, if the sovereign betrays a pusillanimous aversion to war.

The terror of the Roman arms added weight and dignity to the moderation of the emperors. They preserved the peace by a constant preparation for war.

A society in which marriage is encouraged and industry prevails soon repairs the accidental losses of pestilence and war.