Joel Barlow

There are many advantages in their being accustomed to the use of arms, and no possible disadvantage.

How could you fear a dearth? Have not mankind tho' slain by millions, millions left behind?

It is because the people are citizens that they are with safety armed.

A habitual disuse of physical forces totally destroys the moral; and men lose at once the power of protecting themselves, and of discerning the cause of their oppression.