OCR Text |
Show which people are im·ited to see how the ocean might be baiied dry with a clam-shell! These mobs will cease when such spectacles cease. All good citizens will discountenance them under all circumstances and at all times. But if the tide of popular feeling bursts its barriers and sweeps over the laws, the blame attaches to those whose moon-sick fancies raise these unmanageable floods, Reformet·s often despise all considerations which interpose between them and their objects. They are carried away by an enthusiasm, which cjjsregards the elet{'~'ents; and though sometimes on greilt occasions their zeal q; •Y he the cause of success, it more generally makes shil"'j-eck of their enterprise. It would be better to let discj ;lion he their tutor. Prudence, if it he a homely virtue, is always a safe one. Nullum numen nbest Si sit Prudentia tecum. I have no doubt Dr. Channing thinks his book will do the State some services. In exposing its errors I think the same. The freedom with which I have done this is not inconsistent with a high respect for his talents and his character. It is demanded by a higher regard to the tranquillity of the country, the preservation of the Union and the cause of TRUTH. |