john paul jones

“ I have not as yet thought of it, but am determined to make you strike. ”

“ The common class of mankind are actuated by no nobler principle than that of self-interest; this, and this only, determines all adventurers in privateers, the owners as well as those they employ. ”

“ My fortune is liberal enough, having no wife nor family, and having lived long enough to know that riches cannot ensure happiness. ”

“ The situation of America is new in the annals of mankind; her affairs cry haste, and speed must answer them. ”

“ There is now, perhaps, as much difference between a battle between two ships and an engagement between two fleets, as there is between a duel and a ranged battle between two armies. ”

“ I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast; for I intend to go in harm's way. ”

“ It was my intention to lay the Bon homme Richard athwart the Enemies Bow but as that Opperation required great dexterity in the Management of both Sails and Helm And some of our Braces being Shot away it did not exactly succeed to my wish. ”

“ For you must know, Yankees do not haul down their colors till they are fairly beaten. ”

“ A navy is essentially and necessarily aristocratic. ”

“ My desire for fame is infinite. ”