But this I believe to be impossible.

Any corps that was about to set an example of the kind, would weigh well the consequences; and no officer of common discernment and sensibility would hazard them.

If they should stand alone in it, independent of other consequences, what would be their feelings on reflecting that they had held themselves out to the world in a point of light inferior to the rest of the army.

Or if their example should be followed, and become general, how could they console themselves for having been the foremost in bringing ruin and disgrace upon their country.

They would remember that the army would share a double portion of the general infamy and distress, and that the character of an American officer would become as infamous as it is now glorious.
"I confess the appearances in the present instance are disagreeable, but I am convinced they seem to mean more than they really do.