The public servant who, without instructions, should in a gush of irresponsible sentimentality abandon great possessions to which his country is justly entitled, whether by conquest or as indemnity for unjust war, would be not only an unprofitable but a faithless servant.
Reid emphasizes the responsibility of public servants to uphold national interests rather than act on personal sentiment.
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As a foreign critic said in comment on one of the addresses: "The author is one man who knows what he thinks about the new policy required by the new situation in which his country is placed, and has the courage and candor to say it.
Is that the feast to be set before the laboring men of this country?
The people have generally more education and refinement than in other parts of the State; their public improvements are better, and their country is every way more attractive.
I never saw hands more cheerful or contented than some managed on this last plan were.