On the record
If, where words are susceptible of two significations, one beneficent and the other odious, the former only can be taken, then must the Senator restrict this clause to that signification which is not odious.
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Sumner emphasizes that ambiguous words in the Constitution should be interpreted in a way that promotes liberty rather than oppression.
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They are but leaders of the two contending factions into which the Slave Power is divided.
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