But the thought of recognition, under existing circumstances, while the contest is still pending, even without any breaking of the blockade or attempted coercion, is a Satanic absurdity, hardly less impious than the other.
Sumner criticizes the idea of recognizing a government during an ongoing conflict as morally absurd.
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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.
It applies an arrogant and unrelenting ostracism to all who express themselves against Slavery.
Let us at all hazards prevent the extension of Slavery and the increase of the Slave Power.
Tendencies of nations, as revealed in history, teach that our aims are in harmony with prevailing laws, which God, in his benevolence, has ordained for mankind.
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