[Applause.] Do I err in supposing
this an illustration of the supremacy which belongs to the triumphs of
the moral nature? At first impeded or postponed, they at last prevail.
Theirs is a brightness which, breaking through all clouds, will shine
forth with ever-increasing splendor.
I have often thought that if I were a preacher, if I had the honor to
occupy the pulpit so grandly filled by my friend near me [gracefully
inclining toward Mr. Beecher], one of my sermons should be from the
text, "A little leaven shall leaven the whole lump." Nor do I know a
better illustration of these words than the influence exerted by our
Pilgrims. That small band, with the lesson of self-sacrifice, of just
and equal laws, of the government of a majority, of unshrinking loyalty
to principle, is now leavening this whole continent, and in the fulness
of time will leaven the world. [Great applause.] By their example,
republican institutions have been commended, and in proportion as we
imitate them will these institutions be assured. [Applause.]
Liberty, which we so much covet, is not a solitary plant. Always by its
side is Justice. [Applause.] But Justice is nothing but right applied to
human affairs. Do not forget, I entreat you, that with the highest
morality is the highest liberty. A great poet, in one of his inspired
sonnets, speaking of this priceless possession, has said, "But who loves
that must first be wise and good.
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