The state of Slavery,” said Lord Mansfield, pronouncing judgment in the great case of Somerset, “is of such a nature that it is incapable of being introduced on any reasons, moral or political, but only by positive law.
Sumner references Lord Mansfield's judgment, which states that slavery can only be established through positive law, not moral arguments.
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More from Charles Sumner
Consent of the governed necessary in forming new governments of, XII. 298.
The only Constitutional party and party of freedom, VII. 38.
Disunion no remedy for grievances of, VII. 33.
Sovereignty of, belongs to the people, XVI. 28.
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