Here is a new agent of civilization, to be felt in all the concerns of life, at home and abroad.
Editor's note · Context
Sumner describes the metric system as a transformative tool for civilization that will impact various aspects of life.
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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.
Controlled by such a code, employing such representatives, sustained by such agencies, animated by such Furies, and producing such fruits of tears and bitterness, it must be open to question.
I am opposed to a tariff for protection merely, and not for revenue."--Letter to John K.
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.





