There must be a test by which to separate the opposing elements so as to build only from the sound, and that test is a sufficiently liberal one which accepts as sound whoever will make a sworn recantation of his former unsoundness.
Blaine emphasizes the need for a test to determine loyalty when rebuilding a government.
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More from James Blaine
It was the insane folly of the South, in drawing the sword against the life of the Nation, that led irresistibly to the abolition of slavery.
Crises often arise in the conduct of National affairs when cherished opinions must be sacrificed and new departures taken.
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.
As slavery had been the chief inciting cause of disunion, slavery should die.
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