This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1848 Excerpt: ...the fabric of despotism, the work of ages, with a blow. Courageous, heroic, sympathizing with the martyr of liberty in all ages, it burns to seize the avenging sword, and almost envies those who have redeemed oppressed nations by their blood. Such is the picture of the noblest and most generous natures in youth, and we should grievously misconstrue them, were we to see in their defying tones the signs of ferocity. A manhood of the sweetest, serenest virtue often follows a youth of irrepressible enthusiasm. The most interesting characters, indeed, are those in which the uncalculating, disinterested ardor of early life is tempered with the wisdom of years." Few men have lived more profoundly moved by patriotism--if that much abused word may be redeemed to signify a devotedness to the essential principles and real prosperity of a people--than Dr. Channing. With his whole soul he longed to realize, that ideal of a " Christian Commonwealth," which heralded our forefathers to this virgin land. No storms, no frosts, could dim the beacon-fire of this great hope. Yet how expansive was this patriotism may be seen from the following extracts. 1831. "A nation, blessed as we are with free institutions, should feel that it holds these not for itself only, but for mankind, and that all oppressive establishments must fall before their influence, if it will but give proof of their tendency and power to exalt a people in spirit, in virtue, and in condition. In truth, this close connection of different communities should lead us as individuals, as well as in our associated character, to interest ourselves in the cause of humanity through the whole earth. The present is an age of great movements, of great perils, and still of glorious prospects, and one in ...