Whitelaw Reid: “But dat I wouldn’t go down to New Orleans for a slave agin, for I was free.”

In this way they will surely overcome unjust hostility, and convince even the most prejudiced that the denial to them of any right which citizens may properly exercise is equally unwise and wrong.

Our national experience has demonstrated that public order reposes most securely on the broad base of universal suffrage.

Never was there a problem more serious or difficult than that which is now before the Nation, as to this race, whose destiny has been confided to the wisdom and honor of our Government.

It is my firm conviction, that suffrage is not only the best security for freedom, but the most potent agent of amelioration and civilization.