Even since the Rebellion began in the name of Slavery, the existence of this odious enactment unrepealed on our statute-book has been quoted abroad to show that the supporters of the Union are as little deserving of sympathy as Rebel Slavemongers.
Sumner points out that the existence of the Fugitive Slave Act undermines the Union's moral standing, equating its supporters with those who support slavery.
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The first is a heavenly sentiment, from God: the other is a device of this world.
The subterfuges of the politician cannot escape it.
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.
According to recent calculations, its annual cost is not less than a thousand millions of dollars.
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