"We must continue to judge of slavery by what it is, and not by what you tell us it will, or may be."
"The only ground on which a neutral State can claim respect at the hands of belligerents is, that, so far as she is concerned, their rights are protected."
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Source: Gerrit Smith (1856). “Speeches of Gerrit Smith in Congress”, p.18
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"When a good man lends himself to the advocacy of slavery, he must, at least for a time, feel himself to be any where but at home, amongst his new thoughts, doctrines, and modes of reasoning."
"Truth and mercy require the exertion - never the suppression, of man's noble rights and powers."
"But as well may you, when urging a man up-hill with a heavy load upon his back, and with your lash also upon his back, tell him, that be has nothing to do either with the load or the lash."
"But I love honesty, and, therefore; do I make great account of facts."
"I do not object to the construction of rail roads and canals."