L[ydia] M[aria] Child ALS to [Ellis Gray Loring], July 3, 1856

I do feel provoked with them; in the
first place, for being so injudicious
as to go through Missouri; in the next
place, for relinquishing their arms
without a struggle. I like to see
men do either one thing or the other;
either take the high and holy
stand of non-resistance, and go
unarmed, or else use arms bravely,
when they carry them. But to carry
guns to "make a show mit"! (as
Mr. Gräeter used to say) Bah! It
makes this sacred struggle for freedom
seem ridiculous.

I tell you what, my friend, I am
afraid I shall die of heart-swelling;
fettered here, and longing so to act!
"Rouse all, for God and truth, and man!
Redeem our country from this shame!
Perform the lofty deed of right,
And give us back an honored name!"
Ah, how sad and indignant I am, by turns,
I did not know I loved my country so well.

{written perpendicularly in the left margin}

I think you will pronounce Mr. Sear's Sermon uncommonly good,

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