As out of its small egg crawls forth the slimy, scaly, reptile crocodile, so out of this simple definition crawls forth the whole slimy, scaly, reptile monstrosity by which a man is changed into a chattel, a person is converted into a thing, a soul is transmuted into merchandise.
He uses a vivid metaphor to illustrate how the definition of slavery transforms a human being into a mere object.
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More from Charles Sumner
Disunion no remedy for grievances of, VII. 33.
Sovereignty of, belongs to the people, XVI. 28.
Women’s National League, petition of, for universal emancipation, X. 300.
Contrary to Christianity, but upheld by the Church, I. 54, 58.
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