I hope that our Legislature will not pause in offering its guaranty to the bonds of the National Government. It ought to be done at once.
Did I ever tell you how much I enjoyed and admired your old musket speech? It was well conceived and admirably done. I am glad that Theodore Parker’s name is enrolled in the Capitol.
I find your commissioners noble, true, good characters, able to support Massachusetts.
God bless you!
Ever yours,
Charles Sumner.
Washington, February 10, 1861.
Dear Andrew,—It is much to be regretted that our State has hesitated so long in giving its indorsement to the United States bonds. Let us give Government the means of procuring money at once, and put her credit on its legs.
There is tranquillity now. The Peace Conference has not reached any point. It is evident that Virginia and the other Border States will have to decide the question, Which to choose, Union or Slavery? If they remain, it must be in subjection to the Constitution and the antislavery policy of the Fathers.