Harper's Weekly Editorials on Carl Schurz/Mr. Schurz's Speech 2
MR. SCHURZ'S SPEECH.
The speech of Mr. Schurz before the Commonwealth
Club was another illustration of the calm and candid habit
of his mind. In a company of Republicans, Democrats,
and independents he stated the nature and tendencies of
the chief pending public questions so fairly and ably that
those who did not wholly assent could not but feel that
the situation had been presented in a temper and with a
clearness and force which would necessarily command
entire respect.
No party man on either side who has not taken leave of his reason can deny the truth of Mr. Schurz's remark that party spirit prevents the consideration of public questions solely with reference to the public good, and that as patriotic men we ought to cultivate the habit of viewing them upon their merits. Neither can any honorable party man regard with indifference the increase of corruption and the lowering of the party standard. It is by parties that great results are achieved. But so long as the genuine American spirit survives there will be enough political independence to restrain the excesses of party. It is for this spirit that Mr. Schurz speaks, and that it has so strong and persuasive a voice is a matter of public congratulation.
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This work may be in the public domain in countries and areas with longer native copyright terms that apply the rule of the shorter term to foreign works.
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