Page:Speeches, correspondence and political papers of Carl Schurz, Volume 2.djvu/272

252 United States issued from their first revolution as a Republic only by accident, an accident depending upon the sublimely unselfish spirit of Washington, who, instead of grasping the crown, modestly retired to the plow of Cincinnatus? But, on the other hand, you vindicate the Constitution against the President, a President of your own choice and the world will understand that in this Republic at least no man can grow so great as to overtop the majesty of the laws; that here at least republican institutions are safe, for they are in the keeping of men who “know their rights, and, knowing, dare maintain.” 



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Let me give you, confidentially, my views on the situation as it now stands, and, in return, let me ask for an expression of your opinions, in the same confidence, of course.

I know quite well that the economic question is going to play a great part in our politics, and I shall endeavor to perform my share of the labor,—but it is questionable—and here I express Mr. Trumbull's opinion as well as my own—whether it would be prudent for us, situated as we are, to put ourselves too prominently forward in connection with the “Free-Trade League.” The cause of “Revenue-Reform” is making excellent progress in Congress and I expect we shall be able to achieve a considerable success at the next session. But it is desirable for us to appear on the field of action as men who are not controlled by, and not even connected with, outside combinations. In such an attitude we shall be stronger. Moreover, we are now engaged in a piece of business which is very delicate as well as very important.

The Republican party is, as you well know, at present