- George Washington: [to Adams after he has been sworn in] I am fairly out, and you are fairly in. See which of us will be the happiest.
- John Adams: [During an argument about monarchism] Where are you going?
- Abigail Adams: [Leaving the room] We'll finish this conversation when you've regained your senses.
- John Adams: I, uh... I was not aware that I have lost them.
- Abigail Adams: Well, you have.
- John Adams: [Excusing himself from the cabinet room] Mr. President.
- George Washington: Mr. President and nothing more.
- John Adams: [to John Quincy as he leaves for Europe] You have more prudence at 27 than your father at 58. All my hopes are in you, both for our family and our country. Do not disappoint me.
- Thomas Jefferson: The Tree of Liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. It is a natural manure.