But he was persistent.

It was borne into his mind that he was announcing a great truth, and that he would be wronging his own conscience, and to the extent of his influence injuring his country, by withholding it, or in any degree qualifying its declaration.

If there was a disposition to avoid the true significance of the contest with the South, he would not be a party to it.

He believed he could discern the scope and read the destiny of the impending sectional controversy.

He was sure he could see far beyond the present, and hear the voice of the future.