- John Adams: I must study politics and war... so that my sons can study mathematics and philosophy, navigation, commerce and agriculture so that their children can study painting, poetry and music.
- Benjamin Franklin: [Angrily to Adams] What are you thinking of? A good diplomat, Mr. Adams, observes much, acts little, and speaks softly!
- Young John Quincy Adams: [John Quincy is preparing to travel to Russia as Francis Dana's secretary] Will it be very cold there, Father?
- John Adams: Good heavens, no. Not for a Massachusetts man.
- John Adams: [Referring to Quincy] I shall rely on your judgment as to a proper school for him.
- Benjamin Franklin: Why, all of Paris is school, Master Adams, the young man need only avail himself of the lessons.
- Benjamin Franklin: We are all actors here, Mr. Adams, and so far my performance has been well received.