Not because it declares separation from a distant kingly power; but because it announces the lofty truth that all are equal in rights, and, as a natural consequence, that just government stands only on the consent of the governed,--all of which is held to be self-evident.
Sumner explains that the Declaration's true value lies in its assertion of equality and consent of the governed.
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The first is a heavenly sentiment, from God: the other is a device of this world.
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.
Still further: every ship-of-war that floats costs more than a well-endowed college.
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.
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