An act of Congress, while it remains unrepealed, more especially if it be constitutionally valid in the judgment of those public functionaries whose duty it is to pronounce on that point, is undoubtedly binding on the conscience of each good citizen of the Republic.
Pierce emphasizes the binding nature of constitutional acts on citizens' consciences.
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Let us, then, with redoubled vigilance, be on our guard against yielding to the temptation of the exercise of doubtful powers, even under the pressure of the motives of conceded temporary advantage and apparent temporary expediency.
And then both reason and right combine not merely to justify but to require its repeal.
If it were adopted as an international rule, the commerce of a nation having comparatively a small naval force would be very much at the mercy of its enemy in case of war with a power of decided naval superiority.
Amicable relations between them and reciprocal good will are essential for the promotion of whatever is desirable in their moral, social, and political condition.
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