Suppose we should take away all laws, and devolve upon the different States the duties that properly belong to them, I would ask that Senator, whether, under the prevalence of public opinion there, Massachusetts would execute that provision as one of the constitutional members of this Union?
Sumner questions the ability of states to uphold constitutional duties without federal laws, highlighting the importance of public opinion in Massachusetts.
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Their existence is a disgrace to civilization; for it implies the common consent of nations to the Arbitrament of War, as regulated by these laws.
Nor should we be too impatient to witness the fulfilment of our aspirations.
It is a cause which, though long kept in check throughout our country, as also in Europe, now confronts the people and their rulers, demanding to be heard.
The devices of party can no longer stave it off.
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