The people at large are in a frame to be reasoned
with and persuaded; for if we can do anything within the bounds of
reason to retain the South in the Union, it will be done. We will say of
concession as the antithesis of secession, as was said of two other
things: 'Millions for defence, but not a cent for tribute.' I think that
both sections need forgiveness of God, and of each other."
"Well," said Mr. North, "after all we shall get along and get through,
even if there should be a separation."
"Mr. Worth," said I, "when you were studying Cicero, could you
understand--for I could not--how he and other patriots could feel so
strongly about the fortunes of their country as to declare--which they
frequently do--that they would rather die than survive their country's
honor? It has come to me vividly of late. I see it and feel it. The
sunshine will seem to have gone out of our life when we become two
unfriendly nations.
"It is easy," said I, "for it gratifies some of the lower passions, to
ridicule a whole section of the country for their act of secession or a
disposition towards it; to boast that the South cannot do without us; to
prophesy that they will get sick of it, and wish to return; to express
wonder that they should feel so much hurt; to remind them that, if they
will do as we have always counselled them, there would be no trouble;
and there is a temptation to say, as friends in a quarrel will hastily
say, Let them go.
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