On the record
The first duty of a Government is protection.
Source
gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner articulates the fundamental role of government in ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
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More precious far at that moment the consolation that he had labored for his fellow-men, and the joyous confidence that all his cares had helped the Progress of his race!
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.
Still further: every ship-of-war that floats costs more than a well-endowed college.
Nay, more,--if it would be criminal in these several clusters of States to reëstablish the Institution of War as Arbiter of Justice, then is it criminal in the Commonwealth of Nations to continue it.
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