John Sherman: “This is a free land, and the agricultural masses are the freest, the noblest, and the best of all our race.”

Canada and Mexico as independent republics will be more valuable to the United States than if carved into additional states.

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.

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…

The Union already embraces discordant elements enough without adding others.