In this view of things we gain by what we give, and draw an annual interest greater than the capital.--I ever feel myself hurt when I hear the union, that great palladium of our liberty and safety, the least irreverently spoken of.
From "The American Crisis," Paine expresses deep concern and offense at any disrespect shown towards the Union, which he considers the essential safeguard of American liberty and safety.
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Nations, like individuals, who have long been enemies, without knowing each other, or knowing why, become the better friends when they discover the errors and impositions under which they had acted.
There ought, therefore, to be in every nation a method of occasionally ascertaining the state of public opinion with respect to government.
The oppressed soldier will become a freeman; and the tortured sailor, no longer dragged through the streets like a felon, will pursue his mercantile voyage in safety.
As to what are called national religions, we may, with as much propriety, talk of national Gods.