On the record
We have read of an effort to extract sunbeams out of cucumbers; but the present effort to extract a cruel prerogative out of the simple words of the Constitution is scarcely less absurd.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner critiques the attempt to derive unjust powers from the Constitution as being nonsensical.
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It is larger than the entire profit of all the commerce and manufactures of the 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.
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…
Nor should we be too impatient to witness the fulfilment of our aspirations.
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