The expression of it shows with how little wisdom the world is governed, and shows, moreover, how little wisdom there is in the fanatical hosts of which Judge Chase is the most conspicuous member; and yet this man was feted and caressed in his travels through the South, by Southern men and Southern women.
Reid reflects on the lack of wisdom in governance and the reception of Judge Chase in the South.
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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.
They should persist in this claim respectfully, but firmly, taking care to bring no discredit upon it by their own action.
Let me repeat, that I think it best for all men—white men, black men, and brown men, if you make that distinction, that all men of proper age and unconvicted of crime, should have the right of suffrage.