The Fourth of July is not an occasion to compass sea and land to make proselytes. The good sense and the good nature which yet remain among us will, we trust, prevail on this day, and be sufficient to chain, at least for a season, that untamed monster, Party Spirit — and would to God that it might be chained forever, that, as we have but one interest, we might have but one heart and one mind.

It is at the season when nature hath assumed her loveliest apparel that the American people assemble in their several temples to celebrate the birthday of their nation. Arrayed in all the beauties of the year, the Fourth of July once more visits us. Green fields and a ripening harvest proclaim it, a bright sun cheers it, and the hearts of freemen bid it welcome.

Independence now; and INDEPENDENCE forever.

The farmers are the founders of civilization and prosperity.

The most important thought I ever had was that of my individual responsibility to God.

Heaven's gates are not so highly arched as princes' palaces; they that enter there must go upon their knees.

A mass of men equals a mass of opinions.

Slavery is a continual and permanent violation of human rights.

Although no sculptured marble should rise to their memory, nor engraved stone bear record of their deeds, yet will their remembrance be as lasting as the land they honored.

Whatever makes men good Christians, makes them good citizens