The important distinction so well understood in America between a constitution established by the people, and unalterable by the government; and a law established by the government, and alterable by the government, seems to have been little understood and less observed in any other country. Wherever the supreme power of legislation has resided, has been supposed to reside also, a full power to change the form of government.

The express authority of the people alone could give validity to the Constitution.

If Tyranny and Oppression come to this land, it will be in the guise of fighting a foreign enemy.

But cool and candid people will at once reflect, that the purest of human blessings must have a portion of alloy in them, that the choice must always be made, if not of the lesser evil, at least of the GREATER, not the PERFECT good; and that in every political institution, a power to advance the public happiness, involves a discretion which may be misapplied and abused.

For what purpose could the enumeration of particular powers be inserted, if these and all others were meant to be included in the preceding general power?

In the extent and proper structure of the Union, therefore, we behold a republican remedy for the disease incident to republican government.

To the press alone, chequered as it is with abuses, the world is indebted for all the triumphs which have been gained by reason and humanity over error and oppression.