On the record
It is like the slumbering statute which Cicero describes as a sword in the scabbard, tanquam gladius in vagina.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner uses Cicero's metaphor to illustrate that dormant laws still hold significant power, like a sword in its scabbard.
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At Baltimore the delegation of the most important State in the Union, known to be in favor of the Wilmot Proviso, was refused admission to the Convention.
They who strive after it, Ixion-like, embrace a cloud.
Above all, welcome to the united regenerated Democracy of the North, which spurns the mockery of a Republic, with professions of Freedom on the lips, while the chains of Slavery clank in the Capitol!
Far above any flickering light or battle-lantern of party is the everlasting sun of Truth, in whose beams are the duties of men.
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