But if the trespasser is an old offender, who from the beginning has broken fences, ruined trees, and trampled down the garden, and now defiantly comes upon the field of grass, insisting upon absolute ownership, then it is vain to set up the apology that very little damage is done.
Sumner argues that a history of offenses complicates the justification for minor transgressions, emphasizing accountability.
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More from Charles Sumner
Slave Power, necessity of political action against the, II. 207.
Women’s National League, petition of, for universal emancipation, X. 300.
Contrary to Christianity, but upheld by the Church, I. 54, 58.
Consent of the governed necessary in forming new governments of, XII. 298.
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