March 20, 1857
Sumner, on his way Europe, via the steamer Fulton, writes “to Boston”. It urges that people not be disheartened by events in Kansas. “I trust, also, that the people of Kansas will stand firm, and, if need be, that they will know how to die for freedom….for there is to be fought the great battle between freedom and slavery — by the ballot-box, I trust, but I do not forget that all who destroy the ballot-box madly invoke the cartridge- box….as I now seek a foreign land, hoping for health long deferred, I give my last thoughts to suffering Kansas, and also my devout prayers….that she may be lifted into the enjoyment of freedom and peace.”
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