Report of the Proceedings and Debates of the Convention for the Revision of the Constitution of the State of New York, 1867 - 68; AB Vol. 3 M. D. Tit. - Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention of the State of New Volume 1 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1868 edition. Excerpt: ...than upon the republican party. Let it be so. Mr. MERRITT--I would say, it has been alleged by the democrats that they sent more men to the war than the republicans, and they think they are a little better off in that respect; but I am in favor of disfranchising them, no matter what their politics. Mr. BROOKS--Whether they ire republicans or democrats, I am against disfranchising them. I regard them as citizens of the United States, who, it may be, have committed the crime of desertion or rebellion, but all these may have repented in dust and ashes for the commission of their wrong. I speak, sir, in behalf of a class of persons in whom I have no more interest than any other gentleman, perhaps less than many others. I bespeak for them through our action here a little of that human kindness which it seems to me, in times like these, so long after the rebellion has ended, is eminently becoming, and which should animate the minds and hearts of all generous people. Forgiveness is a great example taught us by the Almighty himself. It is a sentiment implanted by God in the heart of every true man. The Son of God has said if you forgive notmen their trespasses neither will.your Heavenly Father forgive you your trespasses, and let me say here in regard to this matter of mercy i the language of the poet that--"The quality or mercy Is not triiiii'd; It droppeth as the gentle rain from Heaven Upon the place beneath: it is twice bless'd--It hie-set li him Hint gives, and him that takes. 'Tie mightiest in the mightiest; it becomes The throned monarch better than his crown: His scepter shows the force of temporal power. The attribute to awe and majesty. Wherein doth sit the dread and tear of king; 'Bat mercy is above this sceptered sway: It...