Volume 3 — CLEMENCY TO POLITICAL OFFENDERS.
Reading edition
Letter to an Irish Festival at Washington, January 22, 1852.
At the festival the following toast was given: "Hon. Charles Sumner: In the Cradle of Liberty the cause of the exile will ever find a friend."
The following letter was then read.
Washington, January 22, 1852.
Gentlemen,—It is not in my power to unite in your festal meeting this evening. But be assured I shall rejoice in every word of affection and honor for Ireland, and of sympathy with all her children, especially those patriots who have striven and suffered for the common good.
In answer to your express request, I beg leave to inclose a sentiment, which I trust may find a response at once from our own Government and from that of Great Britain.
I have the honor to be, Gentlemen,
Your faithful servant,
Charles Sumner.
John T. Towers, Esq., Chairman, &c.
Clemency: A grace which it can never be otherwise than honorable to ask and honorable to grant.
"'Tis mightiest in the mightiest; it becomes The thronèd monarch better than his crown."