Nor does it follow from any possible construction of the Constitution that it is wise and just for the American people to seize, through war, and to govern by force, the hostile tribes and peoples of the earth whether near to or remote.
Boutwell argues against the notion that the Constitution justifies the forcible governance of foreign peoples.
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On no man in public life in this generation were there more frequent charges and insinuations of wrong-doing, and in this generation there has been no man in public life who was freer from all occasion for such insinuations and charges.
Not infrequently a statement would be the occasion of scandal and of suffering by innocent parties.
He was the possessor of an elastic spirit; he was always hopeful of the future and in adversity he saw or fancied that he saw, days of prosperity for himself, for his party, for the commonwealth and for the country.
I would respect the rights of all nations, demanding equal respect for our own.
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