Some there are, I doubt not, of happy natures, uncorrupted by the possession of tyrannical power, who render the condition of their slaves endurable, and in private virtues emulate the graces of Civilization; but the good in these cases comes from the masters, notwithstanding Slavery.
Editor's note · Context
Sumner acknowledges that while some slaveholders may treat their slaves humanely, it does not change the fundamental injustice of slavery.
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