“It will be observed, as a remarkable characteristic of
this great speech, that it is but slightly controversial
in its character, but is devoted mainly to the elucidation
of the general principles of republican government, which
are discussed with an elevation of sentiment, a depth
of learning, and a power of logic that entitle it to a
place far above the transient expressions of the views
and passions of the hour. It will stand for ages, a noble
and enduring monument of the highest range and scope of
American statesmanship, and will be read with profit and
admiration long after the questions of the day have been
settled and forgotten, or remembered only by students
of history. Its immediate effect, however, on public
sentiment cannot fail to be vast and beneficial.