The Law by Fredric Bastiat (1801-1850)

“Each of us has a natural right to defend his person, his liberty, and his property. If every person has the right to defend–even by force–his person, his liberty, and his property, then it follows that a group of men have the right to organize and support a common force to protect these rights constantly. Thus, since an individual cannot lawfully use force against the person, liberty, or property of another individual, then the common force–for the same reason–cannot lawfully be used to destroy the person, liberty, or property of individuals or groups.” 

Download The_Law (pdf).  This is essential reading for all liberty minded individuals.  Written in 1850, its sound logic is just as relevant today.