Yes, the Founders knew that the PEOPLE, not those in government, must be virtuous and they also knew that those in power would do what those in power always do - try to increase it - which is why they focused on the LIMITS of government and the VIRTUE OF THE PEOPLE NOT IN government.
Something you, and Mary Matalin, miss.
I don't think I missed anything. I chose the quotes I did because I think the founders understood that virtue must reside in all the people, including those who are elected to and serve in government. I know and appreciate Lord Acton's warning, but I don't think it is the topic under consideration here.