If in such an organization a spirit of moderation and justice should be shown, if consideration should be exhibited for the negro, even so far as to assure to him the inherent rights of human nature, a deep impression would be made on the conscience and the public opinion of the North.
Blaine believes that a fair approach by Southern Legislatures towards African Americans could positively influence Northern public opinion.
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But in the treatment of the colored man, now proposed, there was absolute heartlessness and rank injustice.
The deep-seated prejudice against color is assiduously cultivated by the public journals and leads to acts of cruelty, oppression, and murder, which the local authorities are at no pains to prevent or punish.
Such an opportunity would have been a menace to the public credit, and would have proved a constant source of corruption.
I am in no boastful mood: I shall not do more than I can, but I shall do all I can to save the Government, which is my sworn duty as well as my personal inclination.
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