Even admitting that the capture was null by the Law of Nations, yet the nature of the reparation to be demanded rests absolutely in the discretion of Brazil, and in this age no power can be justified in any exercise of discretion adverse to human freedom.
Sumner argues that any reparation demanded must align with the principles of human freedom, regardless of legal technicalities.
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Endeavor, for a moment, by comparison with other interests, to grapple with this sum.
In this contest, we may borrow from the ancient Greek, who, when his hands were cut off, fought with his stumps, and even with his teeth.
Again I repeat, so long as the War System prevails under the sanction of International Law, these painful incongruities will be apparent.
I agree with the Convention in the importance of the new organization; nor do I think there are many candid persons, recognizing morals as the soul of all true politics, who will hesitate in this conclusion.
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