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Josiah Quincy. 1772-1864

If this bill [for the admission of Orleans Territory as a State] passes, it is my deliberate opinion that it is virtually a dissolution of the Union; that it will free the States from their moral obligation; and, as it will be the right of all, so it will be the duty of some, definitely to prepare for a separation,—amicably if they can, violently if they must.[505:2]

Abridged Cong. Debates, Jan. 14, 1811. Vol. iv. p. 327.