My great wish is to go on in a strict but silent performance of my duty; to avoid attracting notice, and to keep my name out of the newspapers

Only aim to do your duty, and mankind will give you credit where you fail.

The constitutions of most of our States assert that all power is inherent in the people; that... it is their right and duty to be at all times armed.

No duty the Executive had to perform was so trying as to put the right man in the right place.

It is our duty still to endeavor to avoid war; but if it shall actually take place, no matter by whom brought on, we must defend ourselves. If our house be on fire, without inquiring whether it was fired from within or without, we must try to extinguish it.

It is easier to do one's duty to others than to one's self. If you do your duty to others, you are considered reliable. If you do your duty to yourself, you are considered selfish.