She has no such fear; her slaves would be
to her now, as they were in the Revolution, an element of military
strength. I trust that no speculations will be made upon either the
condition or the supposed weakness of the South. They will bring sad
disappointments to those who indulge them. Rely upon her devotion to the
Union, rely upon the feeling of fraternity she inherited and has never
failed to manifest; rely upon the nationality and freedom from sedition
which have in all ages characterized an agricultural people; give her
justice, sheer justice, and the reliance will never fail you.
Then, Mr. President, I ask that some substantial proposition may be made
by the majority in regard to this question. It is for those who have the
power to pass it to propose one. It is for those who are threatening us
with the loss of that which we are entitled to enjoy, to state, if there
be any compromise, what that compromise is. We are unable to pass any
measure, if we propose it; therefore I have none to suggest. We are
unable to bend you to any terms which we may offer; we are under the ban
of your purpose: therefore from you, if from anywhere, the proposition
must come. I trust that we shall meet it, and bear the responsibility as
becomes us; that we shall not seek to escape from it; that we shall not
seek to transfer to other places, or other times, or other persons, that
responsibility which devolves upon us; and I hope the earnestness which
the occasion justifies will not be mistaken for the ebullition of
passion, nor the language of warning be construed as a threat.
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