"Whether we shall now destroy that Government or make another effort to preserve it and reform its abuses, is the question before us. Is that question not entitled to all the wisdom, the moderation and the prudence we can command? Were you ever at sea in a storm? Then you know the sailor often finds it necessary, to enable him to keep his ship above the waves, to throw overboard his freight, even his treasure. But with his chart and his compass he never parts. However dark the heavens or furious the winds, with these he can still point the polar star, and find the port of his safety. Would not that sailor be mad who should throw these overboard?
We are at sea, my friends. The skies are fearfully darkened. The billows roar threateningly. Dangers are on every side. Let us throw overboard our passions, our prejudices and our party feelings, however long or highly valued. But let us hold on--hold on to reason and moderation. These and these alone point always to the star of truth, by whose guidance we may let safely come to shore." (B. H. Hill, Georgia statesman)
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