The Continental Monthly, Vol. III, No. V, May, 1863: Devoted to Literature and National PolicyVarious
History
The Continental Monthly, Vol. III, No. V, May, 1863: Devoted to Literature and National Policy
Various
Literature, Modern -- 19th century -- Periodicals; United States -- Politics and government -- 19th century -- Periodicals
It were useless to deny that most of the points here indicated would be
recognized and placed on his map by a Moral and Social topographer who
should make the tour of the entire State from Cairo to Dunleith, both
inclusive; but it is none the less certain that if he noted only these
he would ill deserve his title. Cicero had a huge, unsightly wart on
his eloquent nose; the fair mother of Queen Elizabeth, a 'supplemental
nail' on one of her beautiful hands; Italy has her Pontine Marshes, New
York city her 'Sixth Ward'; but he must be a green-eyed monster indeed
who would represent these as characteristics. Illinois deserves an
explorer with clear, kind eyes, and a historiographer as genial as
Motley. All in good time. She will 'grow' these, probably. While we are
waiting for them, let us prepare a few jottings for their use.
A great State is a great thing, certainly, but mere extent or mere
material wealth, without intellectual and social refinement and a high
moral tone, can never excite very deep interest. Not that we can expect
to find every desirable thing actually existent in a country as soon as
it is partially settled and in possession of the first necessities of
human society. But we may expect aspirations after the best things, and
a determination to acquire and uphold them. These United States of
ours--God bless them forever!--have a constitutional provision against
the undue preponderance of physical advantages over those of a higher
kind. Rhode Island (loyal to the core), and Delaware (just loyal enough
to keep her sweet), each sends her two Senators to Congress; and huge
Illinois--whom certain ill-advised Philistines are trying to make a
blind Samson of--can send no more. If we say the State that sends the
best men is the greatest State (for the time, especially the present
time), 'all the people shall answer Amen!' for one loyal heart, just
now, is more precious than millions of fat acres. Whether Illinois could
prudently submit to this appraisal, just at the present moment, remains
to be proved; but that her heart is loyal as well as brave, there can be
no question.
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