Always strictly just, according to prevailing principles, and at his death ordering the emancipation of his slaves, he was more a general and statesman than philanthropist; nor did he seem inspired, beyond the duties of patriotism, to active sympathy with Human Rights.
Sumner critiques a historical figure's lack of commitment to human rights despite their accomplishments.
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They who strive after it, Ixion-like, embrace a cloud.
Rather would I arouse you to renewed and incessant exertion.
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.
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