"He did not remember that it is the essence of democratic government that a temporary majority shall not abuse its power, nor shall cardinal changes be forced in national policy except after full and free discussion, and by emphatic assent of the people. These were all at bottom moral considerations, and his apprehension of them was cloudy and limited."

Allen Nevins, Ordeal of the Union, "Part II -- A House Dividing 1852-1857" (Collier Books reprint, 1992) p. 108-109.