I will not attempt in this note to comment upon the unprecedented and distressful state of affairs, but only wish to touch your hand once more and thank you for what you have written and said and are yet to write and say to the American people in relation to the dangers that beset them and the real peril to free institutions that clouds our immediate future.
I came here a week ago to try the medicinal virtues of the baths, etc., but I fancy our gray-bearded Father Time is smiling at the efforts (so futile) to escape the results of his long companionship.
In a week I shall be back at my home in Delaware, and it would be a real joy to me to see you on my porch overlooking the blue Delaware and smoking the pipe of peace. It is an easy ride from New York, after business hours, to arrive at Wilmington, where I will meet you, and where a hearty welcome awaits you.
Dear Schurz, I remember so well thirty years ago, when you stepped out “solitary and alone” and struck the shield of organized and corrupt power in the Senate of the United States, and my heart has been with you from that day to this.
ABOUT PATRIOTISM[1]
The dictionaries define “patriotism” as “love of one's country,” and “patriot” as “one who loves and faithfully serves his country.” These definitions are generally accepted as correct, and they should be well kept in mind, especially at a time of warlike excitement when the word “patriotism” is on every lip, and an appeal to “patriotism,” from whomsoever it may come and by whatever motive it may be prompted, is sure to draw popular applause. It should be constantly remembered that to
- ↑ From Harper's Weekly of April 16, 1898. Grateful acknowledgments are made to Harper & Brothers for generous permission to reprint this article.
