Recollections of Forty Years in the House, Senate and Cabinet: An Autobiography.Sherman, John
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Recollections of Forty Years in the House, Senate and Cabinet: An Autobiography.
Sherman, John
Sherman, John, 1823-1900; Statesmen -- United States -- Biography; United States -- Politics and government -- 19th century
"Now, Mr. chairman, I have gone over the whole field. I have given
my views, speaking for no other man, frankly and fearlessly, and
I will stand by them now and in the future. I have given you my
opinion upon all these points. I tell you that this whole controversy
was fought and won by us two years ago, and all you have to do now
is to admit Kansas. That is the only act of power now needed.
There let it stand. Let us live together like a band of brothers.
If we cannot agree with you about slavery, why, you do not agree
with us. I know there has been a great deal of intemperance of
language on this subject; but I ask, if it has been used upon our
side, has it not been used upon yours? If there has been harsh
and violent words used, I have not uttered them that I know of.
If I have, I beg every man's pardon; because I think that violent
language, calculated to stir up excitement and agitation, ought
not be used in a deliberative assembly. I ask you if you have not
sins to repent of, if we have? Let us be at peace. Let us go on
with the administration of the government kindly, harmoniously,
hopefully, trusting in that providence of Almighty God which has
thus far guided and guarded us, until this nation has become a
marvel to the world. Can we not go on in the same way in which we
have gone on in the past? Why not let the Republican administration
be inaugurated in peace and quiet? Try it in the name of God!
Are you cowards, that you would flee from an apprehension? I know
you are not. Stand by the old ship of state! Give the Republican
administration a fair chance. If it does not do right, you will
find thousands--ay, millions--in the northern states who will stand
by you. I believe it will do right. Give it a trial. That is
all we ask, and what we demand at all hazards."
The delegation from Ohio, during this Congress, was regarded as a
very strong one. I do not disparage any by a brief reference to
a few.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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