It is probable, in fact, that the Convention of 1831 exercised a very great influence upon the minds of the malcontents, and prepared them for the open revolt against the commercial laws of the Union which took place in 1832.
It cannot be denied that the unrestrained liberty of association for political purposes is the privilege which a people is longest in learning how to exercise.

If it does not throw the nation into anarchy, it perpetually augments the chances of that calamity.

On one point, however, this perilous liberty offers a security against dangers of another kind; in countries where associations are free, secret societies are unknown.

In America there are numerous factions, but no conspiracies.
Different ways in which the right of association is understood in Europe and in the United States--Different use which is made of it.
The most natural privilege of man, next to the right of acting for himself, is that of combining his exertions with those of his fellow-creatures, and of acting in common with them.

I am therefore led to conclude that the right of association is almost as inalienable as the right of personal liberty.