On the record
The generous sentiments which filled the early patriots, and impressed upon the government they founded, as upon the coin they circulated, the image and superscription of LIBERTY, have lost their power.
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner reflects on the diminishing influence of the ideals of liberty that shaped the founding of the United States.
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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.
They who strive after it, Ixion-like, embrace a cloud.
Above all, welcome to the united regenerated Democracy of the North, which spurns the mockery of a Republic, with professions of Freedom on the lips, while the chains of Slavery clank in the Capitol!
Endeavor, for a moment, by comparison with other interests, to grapple with this sum.
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