William Lenoir, "It is natural for men to aspire to power--it is the nature of mankind to be tyrannical; therefore it is necessary for us to secure our rights and liberties as far as we can."

   "It is natural for men to aspire to power--it is the nature of mankind to be tyrannical; therefore it is necessary for us to secure our rights and liberties as far as we can. But it is asked why we should suspect men who are to be chosen by ourselves, while it is their interest to act justly, and while men have self-interest at heart. I think the reasons which I have given are sufficient to answer that question. We ought to consider the depravity of human nature, the predominant thirst of power which is in the breast of every one, the temptations our rulers may have, and the unlimited confidence placed in them by this system"--Mr. William Lenoir, July, 30, 1788. (Mr. Lenoir voted against the U.S. Constitution because it did not contain a bill of rights.) [Debates In The Convention Of The State Of North Carolina, On The Adoption Of The Federal Constitution. Eliot's Debates, Vol. IV. Pgs. 203-4]