On the record
In war there are some who content themselves with triumphs of prudence instead of triumphs of courage, and spend much time in trying how not to be beaten, instead of how to beat.
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
This quote reflects Sumner's belief in the importance of courage over mere caution in warfare.
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More from Charles Sumner
They who strive after it, Ixion-like, embrace a cloud.
The first is a heavenly sentiment, from God: the other is a device of this world.
Nay, more,--if it would be criminal in these several clusters of States to reëstablish the Institution of War as Arbiter of Justice, then is it criminal in the Commonwealth of Nations to continue it.
As the Brotherhood of Man is practically recognized, it becomes impossible to restrict the feeling within any exclusive circle of country, and to set up an unchristian distinction of honor between civil war and international war.
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