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.

None but an armed nation can dispense with a standing army. To keep ours armed and disciplined is therefore at all times important.

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

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

I am not an advocate for frequent changes in laws and constitutions, but laws and institutions must go hand in hand with the progress of the human mind. As that becomes more developed, more enlightened, as new discoveries are made, new truths discovered and manners and opinions change, with the change of circumstances, institutions must advance also to keep pace with the times. We might as well require a man to wear still the coat which fitted him when a boy as civilized society to remain ever under the regimen of their barbarous ancestors.

For a people who are free, and who mean to remain so, a well-organized and armed militia is their best security.