National honor is the national property of the highest value.

It was by one Union that we achieved our independence and liberties, and by it alone can they be maintained.

The principles and passions of men are always the same and lead to the same result, varying only according to the circumstances in which they are placed.

From several of the Indian tribes inhabiting the country bordering on Lake Erie purchases have been made of lands on conditions very favorable to the United States, and, as it is presumed, not less so to the tribes themselves.

To impose taxes when the public exigencies require them is an obligation of the most sacred character, especially with a free people.

I have great satisfaction in stating that our relations with France, Russia, and other powers continue on the most friendly basis.

I regret that I should leave this world without again beholding him.

The payments which have been made into the Treasury show the very productive state of the public revenue.

The right of self defense never ceases. It is among the most sacred, and alike necessary to nations and to individuals, and whether the attack be made by Spain herself or by those who abuse her power, its obligation is not the less strong.

The best form of government is that which is most likely to prevent the greatest sum of evil.

Our relations with the other powers of Europe have experienced no essential change since the last session.

In the wars of the European powers in matters relating to themselves we have never taken any part, not does it comport with our policy so to do. It is only when our rights are invaded or seriously menaced that we resent injuries or make preparation for our defence.

The crime of ingratitude has not yet stained, and I trust never will stain, our national character. You are considered by them as not only having rendered important service in our own revolution, but as being, on a more extended scale, the friend of human rights, and able advocate of public liberty. To the welfare of Thomas Paine, the Americas are not, nor can they be, indifferent.

In a representative republic, the education of our children must be of the utmost importance!

During the darkest days of the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress and George Washington -- I call him the first George W. -- (laughter and applause) -- urged citizens to pray and to give thanks and to ask for God's protection.

Before any man can be considered as a member of civil society, he must be considered as a subject of the Governor of the Universe. And to the same Divine Author of every good and perfect gift we are indebted for all those privileges and advantages, religious as well as civil, which are so richly enjoyed in this favored land.

I enter on the trust to which I have been called by the suffrages of my fellow-citizens with my fervent prayers to the Almighty that He will be graciously pleased to continue to us that protection which He has already so conspicuously displayed in our favor.

Let us by wise and constitutional measures promote intelligence among the people as the best means of preserving our liberties.

Never did a government commence under auspices so favorable, nor ever was success so complete.

A king without power is an absurdity.