If fear is cultivated it will become stronger, if faith is cultivated it will achieve mastery..

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

I have not yet begun to fight!.

It is by no means enough that an officer should be capable. . . . He should be as well a gentleman of liberal education, refined manners, punctilious….

Nothing exciting ever happens to me..

You understand why some animals eat their young..

...without a Respectable Navy, Alas America!.

I may sink, but I'll be damned if I strike!.

Whoever can surprise well must conquer..

It seems to be a law of nature, inflexible and inexorable, that those who will not risk cannot win..

An honorable Peace is and always was my first wish! I can take no delight in the effusion of human Blood; but, if this War should continue, I wish to….

Where men of fine feeling are concerned there is seldom misunderstanding..

I would lay down my life for America but I cannot trifle with my Honor..

It is true that I must run a great risk; no gallant action was ever accomplished without danger..

He who will not risk cannot win..