"We must continue to judge of slavery by what it is, and not by what you tell us it will, or may be."
"There is one class of men, whom it especially behoves to be tenacious of the right of free discussion. I mean the poor."
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Source: Gerrit Smith (1856). “Speeches of Gerrit Smith in Congress [1853-1854].”, 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."