James Monroe Quotes National honor is the national property

• I have great satisfaction in stating that our relations with France, Russia, and other powers continue on the most friendly basis.
• If we look to the history of other nations, ancient or modern, we find no example of a growth so rapid, so gigantic, of a people so prosperous and happy.
• 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.
• It is only when the people become ignorant and corrupt, when they degenerate into a populace, that they are incapable of exercising their sovereignty.
• National honor is the national property of the highest value.

                                                                                                                                      James Monroe