Union.

2. Another motive for a compromise is the expectation that while it is
all that can be done now, it will be a step towards the ultimate. This
was strongly urged in that first compromise. It was said that the
Declaration of Independence, the enthusiasm for liberty, and the
world-wide boast of equal rights, must work a universal consent to the
abrogation of slavery. Jefferson voiced the general sentiment when he
said: "I think a change is already perceptible since the origin of the
present revolution. The way I hope is preparing, under the auspices of
heaven, for a total emancipation." But slavery grew stronger, instead of
weaker, under the compromise, and from time to time required more
compromises, and more surrenders. The Missouri Compromise, the
Annexation of Texas, and the Fugitive Slave Law, each extorted under
threats of the "dissolution of the Union," are examples. But no
compromise ever wrenched an inch of territory from the clutch of slavery
and gave it to freedom. Freedom _held_ the whole Northwest, by the
_un_-compromising requirement: "There shall be neither slavery nor
involuntary servitude" there!

3. Another strong plea for compromise is the hopelessness of gaining
anything better. This was the consideration urged so vehemently against
the early Abolitionists. It was said: "Slavery is wrong--that we all
admit--but it is a fixed fact, invulnerable, backed up by wealth,
talent, pride and political influence, and all opposition is vain. You
Abolitionists are mere sentimentalists, visionaries, doctrinaires." This
had great influence with the indifferent, the timid, and especially with
those who vaunt themselves as "practical men," who boast that they care
nothing for abstractions, but take business views of things. This plea
and these men were largely influential in carrying forward some of the