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formed advisedly, upon due consideration of all arguments 

 that can be brought to bear for or against that policy ; other- 

 wise political action would be but a blind impulse of the pas- 

 sions or feelings leading to unswerving opposition, or uncon- 

 ditional support of men and measures. It is the duty of every 

 patriotic lover of his country to assist in moulding public senti- 

 ment in a right direction, — to counsel obedience to law, know- 

 ing that only by means of a sound and stable government, 

 supported and controlled by constitutional law, can he enjoy 

 the fruits of his labor, or find protection in his property or 

 person. 



We should require the enactment of just and wholesome 

 laws, and while seeking their protection or enforcement, should 

 ourselves give a ready obedience to the same. We should res- 

 pect the dignity of office, and render all loyal aid and assis- 

 tance to those who administer the affairs of the nation. And 

 at this time, when civil war is shaking the pillars of our Gov- 

 ernment to their very foundations, and while the ship of state 

 is battling in storm and tempest with billows lashed into fury 

 by sectional animosity and hate, he who refuses the aid of his 

 lips, of his arm, and of his heart to them who hold the helm 

 while directing the ship aright, and he who withholds his warning 

 voice when breakers are seen ahead — are alike foes and traitors 

 to their country. 



In this great ordeal through which our country is passing, 

 every man has a duty to perform. Justice to his family, to his 

 neighbors, to his country, and to his posterity, alike demand 

 performance, however great the sacrifice may be. Rebels in 

 arms must be taught to respect the sovereignty of law, and the 

 power of constitutional government, and when obedience shall 

 be enforced, or yielded, then it will be our duty to shew that 

 clemency is the attribute of greatness, — that no bond of union 

 is half so strong as that which is riveted with love and frater- 

 nal feelings. 



When that time comes, then shall we have an honorable and 

 permanent peace, in which plenty shall rejoice the husband- 



