Mr. Cutler: I am filled with deep emotion at finding myself standing in
this place, where were collected together the wisdom, the patriotism,
the devotion to principle, from which sprang the institutions under
which we live. You have kindly suggested to me that in my hands is the
task of restoring peace to our distracted country. I can say in
return, sir, that all the political sentiments I entertain have been
drawn, so far as I have been able to draw them, from the sentiments
which originated in and were given to the world from this hall. I have
never had a feeling politically, that did not spring from the
sentiments embodied in the Declaration of Independence. I have often
pondered over the dangers which were incurred by the men who assembled
here and framed and adopted that Declaration. I have pondered over the
toils that were endured by the officers and soldiers of the army who
achieved that independence. I have often inquired of myself what great
principle or idea it was that kept this Confederacy so long together.
It was not the mere matter of the separation of the colonies from the
motherland, but that sentiment in the Declaration of Independence which
gave liberty not alone to the people of this country, but hope to all
the world, for all future time. It was that which gave promise that in
due time the weights would be lifted from the shoulders of all men, and
that all should have an equal chance. This is the sentiment embodied
in the Declaration of Independence. Now, my friends, can this country
be saved on that basis? If it can, I will consider myself one of the
happiest men in the world if I can help to save it. If it cannot be
saved upon that principle, it will be truly awful. But if this country
cannot be saved without giving up that principle, I was about to say I
would rather be assassinated on this spot than surrender it. Now, in
my view of the present aspect of affairs, there is no need of bloodshed
and war. There is no necessity for it. I am not in favor of such a
course; and I may say in advance that there will be no bloodshed unless
it is forced upon the government. The government will not use force,
unless force is used against it.
My friends, this is wholly an unprepared speech. I did not expect to
be called on to say a word when I came here. I supposed I was merely
to do something toward raising a flag. I may, therefore, have said
something indiscreet. [Cries of "No, no."] But I have said nothing
but what I am willing to live by, and, if it be the pleasure of
Almighty God, to die by.