Charles Sumner: “I do this with unspeakable reluctance, but in the discharge of a…”

On the record

I do this with unspeakable reluctance, but in the discharge of a public duty where the claims of patriotism are above even those of self-defence.

Said by

Massachusetts

Source

In this statement, Sumner conveys his sense of duty to speak out, prioritizing patriotism over personal comfort.

More from Charles Sumner

Women’s National League, petition of, for universal emancipation, X. 300.

His loyalty to the Declaration of Independence, XIX. 317.

Disunion no remedy for grievances of, VII. 33.

Slave Power, necessity of political action against the, II. 207.

Other voices in this conversation

Charles Sumner: “I do this with unspeakable reluctance, but in the discharge of a public duty where the claims of patriotism are above…”