“Mr. Sumner concluded yesterday a great speech on the
true basis of a Republic. We believe it will exalt his
reputation as a statesman, a scholar, and a devotee of
Liberty. It is elaborate; but his theme demanded thorough
treatment, and we think very few who read the speech will
find it too long. He will not convince the majority that
the Federal Constitution, as it stands, empowers Congress
to extend and guaranty the right of suffrage in the States
lately in revolt to the black race, and especially to the
freedmen; but he has very clearly demonstrated that it
_ought_ to be so extended,--that the rights of the humble,
the hated, the scorned ought especially to be protected by
their right to vote. Hear what he says on this point.”