On the record
Even the most illustrious characters, whose names still shine from that distant night, were little more than splendid barbarians.
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
He describes the prominent figures of antiquity as having significant flaws despite their achievements.
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More from Charles Sumner
Far above any flickering light or battle-lantern of party is the everlasting sun of Truth, in whose beams are the duties of men.
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.
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!
Still further: every ship-of-war that floats costs more than a well-endowed college.
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