George Washington on values and morals:

"Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars... The mere politician, equally with the pious man, ought to respect and cherish them... Let it simply be asked, 'Where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert?'... And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds... reasons and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principles........

George Washington -----Fairwell Address