On the record
Neither could the rights of the free people without slaves, whether white, black, or colored, be disregarded by the presentation of a petition from slaves.
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Quincy states that the rights of free people cannot be disregarded by the presentation of a petition from slaves, advocating for universal rights.
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More from Josiah Quincy
There is no absolute monarch on earth who is not compelled, by the constitution of his country, to receive the petitions of his people, whosoever they may be.
But circumstances will do more than any negotiation.
If its operation should turn out more advantageous to them, it will be more honorable for us; and I never can object to entering formally into an obligation to do that which, upon every virtuous principle, ought to be done without it.
With a tolerable share of common sense, I hope, in America, to be independent and free.
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