John Tyler/Quotes


 * Popularity, I have always thought, may aptly be compared to a coquette—the more you woo her, the more apt is she to elude your embrace.
 * Message to the House (18 December 1816).


 * Let it, then, be henceforth proclaimed to the world, that man's conscience was created free; that he is no longer accountable to his fellow man for his religious opinions, being responsible therefore only to his God.
 * Funeral oration for Thomas Jefferson (11 July 1826).


 * Patronage is the sword and cannon by which war may be made on the liberty of the human race.
 * Speech in Congress (24 February 1834) against the policies of Andrew Jackson.


 * I can never consent to being dictated to as to what I shall or shall not do. I, as President, shall be responsible for my administration. I hope to have your hearty co-operation in carrying out its measures. So long as you see fit to do this, I shall be glad to have you with me. When you think otherwise, your resignations will be accepted.
 * Cabinet meeting (1841), as retold by John Alexander Tyler.


 * So far as it depends on the course of this government, our relations of good will and friendship will be sedulously cultivated with all nations.
 * First annual message to Congress (1 June 1841).


 * Wealth can only be accumulated by the earnings of industry and the savings of frugality.
 * First annual message to Congress (1 June 1841).


 * In 1840 I was called from my farm to undertake the administration of public affairs and I foresaw that I was called to a bed of thorns. I now leave that bed which has afforded me little rest, and eagerly seek repose in the quiet enjoyments of rural life.
 * Farewell remarks (1845).


 * If the tide of defamation and abuse shall turn, and my administration come to be praised, future Vice-Presidents who may succeed to the Presidency may feel some slight encouragement to pursue an independent course.
 * Letter to Robert Tyler (12 March 1848).