A five minutes’ rule is not the previous question, with its death-dealing garrote, but it is a limitation of debate, and the Senate has from the beginning set itself against any such restriction, insisting always upon the largest latitude and amplest opportunity.
Sumner distinguishes between a five-minute rule and more severe limitations on debate, advocating for the Senate's tradition of open discussion.
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It is clear that the only question of present practical interest arises from the usurpations of the Slave Power and the efforts to extend Slavery.
I am opposed to a tariff for protection merely, and not for revenue."--Letter to John K.
Tendencies of nations, as revealed in history, teach that our aims are in harmony with prevailing laws, which God, in his benevolence, has ordained for mankind.
But so long as War exists as an Institution this terrible inconsistency must appear.
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