On board Steamship Fulton, March 7, 1857.
MY DEAR SIR,—I trust that you and our friends will not be disheartened in efforts for Kansas. Much must still be done, or the night of Slavery will settle down on that beautiful Territory.
Surely the Legislature of Massachusetts will feel the inspiration of a great cause, and pledge itself by a generous appropriation to its support. I hear of constitutional impediments, but I believe that all such will be found to have bottom in the lukewarm hearts of objectors rather than in the Constitution.
There are some who think that anything for Slavery is constitutional, but nothing for Freedom. With me the opposite rule prevails, and I venture to say that any other rule must bring discredit upon a country calling itself a Commonwealth.
I trust, also, that the people of Kansas will stand firm, and that, if need be, they will know how to die for Freedom. Do any sigh for a Thermopylæ? They have it in Kansas, for there is to be fought the great battle between Freedom and Slavery,—by the ballot-box, I trust; but I do not forget that all who destroy the ballot-box madly invoke the cartridge-box.
With a farewell to my country, as I seek a foreign land, hoping for health long deferred, I give my last thoughts to suffering Kansas, with devout prayers that the ruffian Usurpation which now treads her down may be peaceably overthrown, and that she may be lifted into the enjoyment of freedom and repose.
Ever faithfully yours,
Charles Sumner.
P. S. I entrust this to the pilot, and hope it may reach you.