1790s, Farewell Address (1796)
Context: Tis our true policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world; so far, I mean, as we are now at liberty to do it; for let me not be understood as capable of patronizing infidelity to existing engagements. I hold the maxim no less applicable to public than to private affairs, that honesty is always the best policy. I repeat it, therefore, let those engagements be observed in their genuine sense. But, in my opinion, it is unnecessary and would be unwise to extend them.
“Might the simple maxim, that honesty is the best policy be laid to heart! Might a sense of the true aims of life elevate the tone of politics and trade, till public and private honor become identical!”
Summer On The Lakes, in 1843 (1844) http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/11526.
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Margaret Fuller 116
American feminist, poet, author, and activist 1810–1850Related quotes
"Memoirs of Robert E. Lee" by A. L. Long (1886)
1870s
Ford is known to have used the words "truth is the glue that holds government together" several times prior to this.
1970s, First Presidential address (1974)
Context: I believe that truth is the glue that holds government together, not only our Government but civilization itself. That bond, though strained, is unbroken at home and abroad. In all my public and private acts as your President, I expect to follow my instincts of openness and candor with full confidence that honesty is always the best policy in the end.
“Honesty is the best policy — when there is money in it.”
Speech to Eastman College (1901)
Maps and Legends http://exchanges.state.gov/forum/vols/vol42/no2/p35.htm, Architectural Digest (April 2001)