Studying the banner further, I found written above this fair device the names, “DOUGLAS AND JOHNSON.” And then I was saddened to see how here in Massachusetts a great principle of human rights is degraded to be a cover for the denial of all rights.
Sumner critiques the use of a democratic principle as a facade for denying rights, reflecting on political disillusionment.
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Again I repeat, so long as the War System prevails under the sanction of International Law, these painful incongruities will be apparent.
But so long as War exists as an Institution this terrible inconsistency must appear.
Far above any flickering light or battle-lantern of party is the everlasting sun of Truth, in whose beams are the duties of men.
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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