In the first place, the loyal people of the United States plainly see
that the true interests of both sections demand the restoration of their
old connection under one free and benign Government. Having originated
and developed a mighty republican government, until it became
continental in its dimensions, and having through it achieved results
unexampled in history, with the promise of future prosperity
immeasurably grand and imposing, the lovers of the Union would hold
themselves utterly unworthy of their lineage and of their inherited
freedom, if they could consent, in the presence of whatever dangers and
difficulties, to see the glorious destiny of their country defeated.
They would justly consider themselves traitors, not only to their
country, but also to the highest interests of humanity itself; and they
would feel the ineffable shame of imprinting the brand of their
degradation upon their own brows. Partakers of the noblest forms and the
most precious blessings of liberty, under a splendid, powerful, and
growing nationality, they are too conscious of the dignity and glory of
the American character ever to be willing to fall from that high estate
without a struggle which shall fully demonstrate their lofty patriotism
and their intelligent appreciation of the priceless political and social
structure they seek to preserve for the benefit of the whole country and
of the world.
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