John Sherman: “I wish to appeal to the reason and common sense of the people who hear me, for that is said to be the highest wisdom.”

Proud of Ohio, of its history and people, willing at all times to sound its praise in the sisterhood of states, yet, according to my convictions, the United States is entitled to my allegiance, and all parts of it should receive equal care…

During forty years of public life, though many able men have aspired to the office I hold, the people of Ohio, through their general assembly, have preferred me to represent them.

If my life is prolonged I will do all I can to add to the strength and prosperity of the United States, but nothing to extend its limits or to add new dangers by acquisition of foreign territory.

What I have written is no doubt clouded with partisanship, but I would not be honest if I did not express my attachment to my party.