We now begin to experience the danger of admitting so great an error

the sovereign power is divided between the states and general government

The Government of the absolute majority instead of the Government of the people is but the Government of the strongest interests; and when not efficiently checked, it is the most tyrannical and oppressive that can be devised.

The neighboring tribes are becoming daily less warlike, and more helpless and dependent on us … [T]hey have, in a great measure, ceased to be an object of terror, and have become that of commiseration.

Protection and patriotism are reciprocal.

it will be impossible to deny to the states the right of deciding on the infraction of their rights, and the proper remedy to be applied for the correction

The very essence of a free government consists in considering offices as public trusts, bestowed for the good of the country, and not for the benefit of an individual or a party.