"New occasions teach new duties; Time makes ancient good uncouth;
They must upward still and onward who would keep abreast of Truth:
Lo, before us gleam her camp-fires! we ourselves must Pilgrims be,
Launch our Mayflower, and steer boldly through the desperate winter sea."
[IRELAND AND IRISHMEN.]
Letter to a Committee of Irish-born Citizens, August 2, 1853.
Boston, August 2, 1853.
Gentlemen,—It is not in my power to be with you on the evening of the celebration at Faneuil Hall, but, I pray you, do not consider me insensible to the honor of your invitation.
Permit me to say that no country excites a generous sympathy more than Ireland; nor is any society more genial and winning than that of Irishmen.
Believe me, Gentlemen, faithfully yours,
Charles Sumner.