I can only say that there is not a man living who wishes more sincerely than I do to see a plan adopted for the abolition of slavery

Another of my wishes is to depend as little as possible on the labor of slaves

I can only say that there is not a man living who wishes more sincerely than I do, to see a plan adopted for the abolition of it - but there is only one proper and effectual mode by which it can be accomplished, and that is by Legislative authority: and this, as far as my suffrage will go, shall never be wanting.

Among individuals, the most certain way to make a Man your Enemy, is to tell him you esteem him such; so with public bodies

No man is a warmer advocate for proper restraints and wholesome checks in every department of government than I am; but I have never yet been able to discover the propriety of placing it absolutely out of the power of men to render essential services

Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains or slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take but as for me; give me liberty or give me death!