The continual exercise of an unjust claim, even when moderated, ends in corrupting the character of the man, and perverting his judgment.… The possession of a slave being the result of injustice, the relations of the master with the slave cannot be otherwise than a succession of wrongs.
Sumner discusses the corrupting influence of unjust power on both the oppressor and the oppressed.
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They belong to a system so essentially irrational, that all the admitted virtues of many of its agents cannot save it from judgment.
They are but leaders of the two contending factions into which the Slave Power is divided.
Rather would I arouse you to renewed and incessant exertion.
I am opposed to a tariff for protection merely, and not for revenue."--Letter to John K.
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