Atwater, Caleb. Remarks Made on a Tour to Prairie Du Chien; Thence to Washington City, in 1829 . Columbus, OH: Isaac N. Whiting, 1831. [format: book], [genre: history; narrative; travelogue]. Permission: Illinois State University
Persistent link to this document: http://lincoln.lib.niu.edu/file.php?file=atwater.html

fain hope, as enduring as the world itself. Who can compensate for the breaking up of this Union, the last hope of liberty? The example of this Nation, governed by laws, emanating from the people who obey them, casts a steady and enduring light on the path of nations. It has done wonders already in the old world — it will continue to do wonders towards breaking down despotic governments all over the world, until MAN is every where free and happy.

To establish mere firmly the bonds of our Union, not by physical power, but by the moral cements of mutual interest and mutual affection, is a work the most exalted, most patriotic and morally sublime, of any which can employ the thoughts, the time, the labor and the genius of man.

The continuance of this Union, forever, not only transmits to our posterity forever the richest inheritance that any people ever did or ever can possess, but our example holds out the only prospect of freedom and happiness for all mankind.

While this Nation remains one and undivided, free, prosperous and happy, no despotic government can long exist in Europe. Every throne in that quarter of the world, not founded on the will of the people, is now shaking and ready to tumble down in the dust.