African slavery, as it exists in the United States, is a moral, a social, and a political blessing.

We protest solemnly in the face of mankind, that we desire peace at any sacrifice, save that of honor.

The principle for which we contend is bound to reassert itself, though it may be at another time and in another form.

The past is dead; let it bury its dead, its hopes and its aspirations; before you lies the future-a future full of golden promise.

The troops of other states have their reputation to gain, the sons of the Alamo have theirs to maintain.

The authors of all our misfortune.

African slavery, as it exists in the United States, is a moral, a social, and a political blessing.