When a man has cast his longing eye on offices, a rottenness begins in his conduct.

More from Thomas Jefferson

• Although an old man, I am but a young gardener.
• Error of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it.
• How much pain have cost us the evils which have never happened.
• Never buy what you do not want, because it is cheap; it will be dear to you.
• Never put off till to-morrow what you can do to-day.
• Never spend your money before you have it.