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[page 2, column 5, continued:]
THE ELEMENTS OF EMPIRE IN AMERICA — A Discourse by William H. Seward.
We must not begin our notice of this publication by a profession of impartiality, for we confess a predisposition to think well of anything by the same hand. Yet, we cannot but believe that few will differ with us, when we call the discourse in question a masterly performance — clear, discriminating and original. It is designed to show that without war, without violence of any kind, by the operation of almost inevitable causes, Providence is leading us to a more powerful, as moral is superior to physical — philosophy to force.
The idea is brought out by an induction of particulars. Our territory, and its position, with respect to its neighbors; our popular institutions, and their peculiar form; our unity amidst plurality; our immigration; our agriculture, commerce and manufactures, are shown to be inevitable elements in a greatness that will know no superior, and probably no equal. The a priori argument, from our actual position, and the very nature of the case, is fully confirmed by an examination of the past. The causes are deep, inherent and permanent; the disturbing forces superinduced, accidental and temporary. The latter, if not removed by direct action, will remove themselves.
The Lecture is altogether a fine mental and statesman-like effort, and does justice to the prompt and willing fame of Governor Seward.
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Notes:
This review was tentatively attributed to Poe by W. D. Hull as “perhaps Poe's” The review is not mentioned by Heartman & Canny or T. O. Mabbott.
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[S:0 - NYEM, 1844] - Edgar Allan Poe Society of Baltimore - Works - Criticism - Notice of Steward's The Elements of Empire in America (E. A. Poe ?, 1844)