To such extent has this ostrich pretension been carried, that we were solemnly admonished at the bar, and the paradox has found voice in the Senate, that we must judge the acts of Andrew Johnson “as if committed by George Washington.” Here is the paradox in length and breadth.
Sumner critiques the absurdity of judging Andrew Johnson's actions as if they were those of George Washington.
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It applies an arrogant and unrelenting ostracism to all who express themselves against Slavery.
I am in favor of a tariff for revenue, such a one as will yield a sufficient amount to the treasury to defray the expenses of the government, economically administered.
But so long as War exists as an Institution this terrible inconsistency must appear.
Nay, more,--if it would be criminal in these several clusters of States to reëstablish the Institution of War as Arbiter of Justice, then is it criminal in the Commonwealth of Nations to continue it.
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