A division of the State into districts would be a change, in conformity with abstract principles, which would interfere with existing opinions, habitudes, and prejudices of the towns, all of which must be respected.
Editor's note · Context
Sumner emphasizes the importance of respecting local customs and opinions when considering changes to state divisions.
Share
More from Charles Sumner
I am in favor of a tariff for revenue, such a one as will yield a sufficient amount to the treasury to defray the expenses of the government, economically administered.
They belong to a system so essentially irrational, that all the admitted virtues of many of its agents cannot save it from judgment.
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.
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.





