On this suggestion he remarked: "A conciliatory course, so far as may be compatible with self-respect, is proper and necessary towards all; but, in the protracted agony of character and reputation which it is the will of a superior power I should pass through, it is my duty to link myself to the fortunes of no man.
Quincy shares Adams' thoughts on maintaining self-respect while navigating political relationships.
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Union!' be this the watchword of your camp; and if Ate, hot from hell, will come and cry 'Havoc!' fight--fight and conquer, under the banner of universal freedom.
The argument for the annexation, or reännexation, of Texas is as gross an imposture as ever was palmed upon the credulity of an honest people.
They have transmitted that freedom to you; and upon you now devolves the duty of transmitting it unimpaired to your posterity.
Adams replied: "I have no hesitation to say I hold that act unconstitutional and void.
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