Page:The heart of Europe; an address delivered by Charles Pergler in Washington, December 11, 1916, at a conference of oppressed or dependent nationalities (IA heartofeuropeadd00pergrich).pdf/43

 justice and benevolence. Who can doubt that, in the course of times and things, the fruits of such a plan would richly repay any temporary advantages which might be lost by a steady adherence to it? Can it be that Providence has not connected the permanent felicity of a nation with its virtue? The experiment, at least, is recommended by every sentiment which ennobles human nature.” Let us realize that so-called impractical statesmanship is sometimes practical in the highest degree, and that often what is considered practical statesmanship in the long run proves itself highly impractical. Mazzini once declared: “The first people with faith and energy to cry to other peoples: ‘I am fighting for you all. Follow me,’ this people will give its name to an age.” Shall this be the American age?