But the Spaniards of South America were no less isolated by nature; yet their position has not relieved them from the charge of standing armies.

They make war upon each other when they have no foreign enemies to oppose; and the Anglo-American democracy is the only one which has hitherto been able to maintain itself in peace.

*m [Footnote m: [A remark which, since the great Civil War of 1861-65, ceases to be applicable.]] The territory of the Union presents a boundless field to human activity, and inexhaustible materials for industry and labor.

The passion of wealth takes the place of ambition, and the warmth of faction is mitigated by a sense of prosperity.

But in what portion of the globe shall we meet with more fertile plains, with mightier rivers, or with more unexplored and inexhaustible riches than in South America?
Nevertheless, South America has been unable to maintain democratic institutions.