In the United States, our first executive magistrate is not obnubilated behind the mysterious obscurity of counsellors. Power is communicated to him with liberality, though with ascertained limitations. To him the provident or improvident use of it is to be ascribed. For the first, he will have and deserve undivided applause. For the last, he will be subjected to censure; if necessary, to punishment.

James Wilson, founding father

By exclusive property, the productions of the earth and the means of subsistence are secured and preserved, as well as multiplied. What belongs to no one is wasted by every one. What belongs to one man in particular is the object of his economy and care.

James Wilson, "The works of the Honourable James Wilson, L.L.D." Volume 3, On the History of Property, 1804

[I]t should always be remembered that this law, natural or revealed, made for men or for nations, flows from the same divine source: it is the law of God. What we do, indeed, must be founded on what he has done; and the deficiencies of our laws must be supplied by the perfections of His. Human law must rest its authority, finally, upon the authority of that law which is Divine. Far from being rivals or enemies, faith and law are twin sisters, friends, and mutual assistants.

James Wilson, Lectures on Law, Of the General Principles of Law and Obligation, 1790-91

Without liberty, law loses its nature and its name, and becomes oppression. Without law, liberty also loses its nature and its name, and becomes licentiousness.

James Wilson, "The works of the Honourable James Wilson, L.L.D." Volume 1, Of the Study of the Law in the United States, Circa 1790