“This suggestive speech of the eloquent Senator is not
in a strain which is just now popular. He does not sigh
for the things which have passed away, but calmly fronts
the demands of the future; and what he sees and declares
of swift-coming events is in keeping with the sternest
struggles for Liberty, and in full accordance with the
irrepressible instinct which animates our armed free
laborers, however the trimming politicians may denounce
their declaration. Let us not speak ill of this forecast
and courage. None knew better than he, that, for the time
being, he was rendering a thankless service. Indeed, we
venture to say that no other man holding high office in the
government, or desiring to hold, will dare to second or in
any way publicly approve of the vital suggestions of this
address.”
The _Dedham Gazette_ was positive for the speech, and also as to
its favorable reception.
“The most significant feature of the Convention was
the speech of Mr. Sumner, which was received with the
strongest expressions of approval by the great mass of
delegates present. The fixed and earnest attention with
which every word was received, and the hearty and repeated
applause which greeted every allusion to the doctrine of
Emancipation, proved conclusively that upon this question
the people are far in advance of the Government.”
The _Charlestown Advertiser_ testified to the reception of the
speech at the Convention.
“This speech by the Hon. Charles Sumner has been assailed
during the last fortnight by a herd of political
scribblers, none of whom, however, have the wit to refute
its positions. The Republican Convention sanctioned it, on
its delivery, with the most hearty applause.”
The Haverhill _Publisher_ expressed itself with caution.
“As was said, in remarking upon the Worcester Convention,
Mr. Sumner furnished the sensation matter for the occasion,
so it now appears; for all over the country the press
is lively with comment upon it, and in every circle it
is the theme of discussion. It may be well to remember
that the speech of Mr. Sumner will test the spirit of his
constituents, and time will show whether they will sustain
this great statesman, not as a partisan, but as a moral
and philosophical force, in the evidently Heaven-appointed
mission of keeping the public eye fixed upon a great
principle, regardless of politicians or parties.”