(The paper was a staunchly pro-CSA sheet in the town that became the capital of Arkansas after the fall of Little Rock.)
We fight for independence. But this independence is itself valuable only as a means to a higher ends. The institutions which we cherish, and which by means of independence we hope to secure and perpetuate for the advancement of civilization, and the elevation and consequent happiness and dignity of ourselves and posterity, are the true objects of the struggle. They are the only worthy ones. Independence, with social degredation, and hopeless national poverty, is not worth the cost. It is a curse. For ourselves we wish none of it. Independence with anarchy and continual fluctuation of governments is hardly more desirable. . . . The great conservative institution of slavery, so excellent in itself, and so necessary to civil liberty and the dignity of the white race, is one of the grand objects of our struggle. It should never be lost sight of, nor under any pressure should we ever take any step incompatible with the relation of master and slave. No entering wedge to emancipation should ever be allowed. It should not be held forth to the slave as a boon for his services. Our theory is, that he is better off as a slave; and even if he were not, we could not safely have an emancipated class of them amongst us. Much less can we put arms in his hands. That would ruin him forever. Slavery afterwards would became impossible. |
| (Thanks to
Steve Miller of the University of Maryland for providing me
with this.)
|