Thomas Paine (1737-1809) was the American Revolutionary author who wrote a famous, sixteen pamphlet series entitled, "The American Crisis," which he signed, "Common Sense."

"I would give worlds, if I had them, if 'The Age of Reason' had never been published.  O Lord, help!  Stay with me!  It is hell to be left alone. - "Faith and Freedom," by Hart, pg. 309

"The cause of America is in a great measure the cause of all mankind.  Where, say some, is the king of America?  I'll tell you, friend, He reigns above." - "The American Crisis - Common Sense," Thomas Paine, 1776

"Yet that we may not appear to be defective even in earthly honors, let a day be solemnly set apart for proclaiming the charter; let it be placed on the divine law, the Word of God; let a crown be placed thereon." - "The American Crisis - Common Sense," Thomas Paine, 1776

"Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.  What we obtain too cheaply, we esteem too lightly; 'tis dearness only that gives everything its value.  Heaven knows how to put a price upon its goods; and it would be strange indeed if so celestial an article as freedom should not be highly rated." - "The American Crisis - Common Sense," Thomas Paine, 1776

"I die in perfect composure and resignation to the will of my Creator, God." - World Book Encyclopedia, Vol. 13, pg. 6035.