The moral sentiment of every community would rise in opposition to injury inflicted upon the just the kind, and the merciful." The moral duty of nations in this respect is the same as that of individuals.

Active benevolence and forbearance should be employed, so far as may be proper; but there are points at which forbearance ceases to be a virtue.

If we entirely forbear to punish the thief, the robber, and the murderer, think you that crime will be diminished?
Reason and experience prove the contrary.

Active benevolence and kindness should always attend just punishment, but they were never designed to prohibit it.

The laws of God's universe are founded on justice as well as love.
"The moral sentiment of every community rises in opposition to injury inflicted upon the just, the kind, and the merciful;" but this fact does not entirely prevent wicked men from robbing and murdering innocent persons, and therefore wise and just laws require that criminals shall be punished, in order that those who are dead to all moral restraints may be deterred from crime through fear of punishment.
"2d.