While, therefore, I religiously believe in the right of self-defence in its broadest sense, the law of my country and the matured convictions of my whole life alike forbid me to meet you for the purpose indicated in your letter.
Sumner affirms his belief in self-defense while firmly rejecting the idea of engaging in a duel, citing legal and personal convictions.
Share
More from Charles Sumner
Again I repeat, so long as the War System prevails under the sanction of International Law, these painful incongruities will be apparent.
Controlled by such a code, employing such representatives, sustained by such agencies, animated by such Furies, and producing such fruits of tears and bitterness, it must be open to question.
Without yielding to any of these extreme views with regard to the mischiefs or the benefits of party, all should agree that the only true and legitimate object of such an association is to uphold, advance, and develop certain principles…
It is a cause which, though long kept in check throughout our country, as also in Europe, now confronts the people and their rulers, demanding to be heard.
Other voices in this conversation
