The Arguments of Secessionists

stains from making use of it only for foreign wars—not, however, upon any constitutional grounds ; that every great people must resort to drafting in large and prolonged wars, unless the Prussian system be adopted, according to which every man, without exception, is obliged to serve, and does serve, even in times of peace, for a limited period ; that no nation is worthy of the name that can not stand a draft in times of emergency; nor can it maintain its position among the great and leading nations of the earth if it can not, on occasion, furnish its government with an army proportionate to its own greatness ; and that, lastly, a foreigner by birth, who comes to this country to enjoy its material advantages and the freedom she bountifully grants to all, natives or adopted, makes an inadequate return for these benefits when, in times of need, he disclaims the duty of fighting for these benefits, and throws away the right and privilege to fight for her. With my best wishes for the success of your meeting. Your very obedient, Francis Lieber. New York, Sept. 29, 1863. Loyal Leagues, Clubs, or individuals, may obtain any of our Publications at the cost price, by application to the Executive Committee, or by calling at the Rooms of the Society, No. 863 Broadway, where all information may be obtained relating to the Society.

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