The Equality of States on the lips of Slave-Masters was natural, for it was a plausible defence against the approaches of Freedom; but this unauthorized phrase, which has deceived so many, must be rejected now, so far at least as it is employed against the Equal Rights of All.
Sumner critiques the use of the phrase 'Equality of States' by slaveholders as a deceptive defense against freedom.
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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.
The first is a heavenly sentiment, from God: the other is a device of this world.
Rather would I arouse you to renewed and incessant exertion.
The most distant are not without a present influence on our daily lives.
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