The latter part of the letter alluded to reports that the
Legislature was disposed to repeal or modify the well-known
laws for the protection of Personal Liberty, passed originally
as a defence against the Fugitive Slave Bill. Compromisers
urged this surrender, particularly after the special call
in the Crittenden propositions. At the request of anxious
citizens at home, Mr. Sumner wrote to members of the
Legislature against any such sacrifice, insisting, that, with
the manifest determination of the South, it could do no good,
while plainly the laws should be maintained for the sake of
Liberty. His views were briefly expressed in a private letter
to Hon. William Claflin, Chairman of the Republican State
Committee, and President of the Massachusetts Senate.
[_Private._] WASHINGTON, January 1, 1860.
MY DEAR CLAFLIN,--Massachusetts has now an important post.
Her most difficult duty is to be true to herself and her
own noble history. In the name of Liberty, I supplicate you
not to let her take any backward step,--_not an inch, not a
hair’s breadth_.
It is now too late for any fancied advantage from such
conduct. The crisis is too far advanced. It only remains
that she do nothing by which Liberty suffers, or her
principles are recanted.
Remember well, that not a word from our Legislature can
have the least influence in averting the impending result.
What the case requires is firmness which nothing can shake.
Let the timid cry, but let Massachusetts stand stiff. God
bless her!
We are on the eve of great events, and this month will try
men’s souls. But our duty is clear as noonday, and bright
as the sun.
Ever yours,