Thursday, July 7, 2022

Sumner’s Blood Shirt Sent To Boston — published May 28, 1856

This maltreated garment, we learn, has been conveyed by carful hands to Boston. In advance of the august ceremonies which doubtless will mark its advent, his patriotic constituency, will have had their minds and hearts, if they have either, well stored for “mutiny and rage,” by the fervid eloquence of their Beecher Saint.

This meek and holy priest is, we suppose, to officiate upon the occasion of the shirt demonstrations which will be made. As it is a new theme, and may draw to heavily upon his imagination, we suggest to him to read Mark Anthony’s speech over the body of the beloved Caesar.—As Thus: “If you have tears, prepare to shed them now. You all do know this “garment.” I remember the first time Sumner put it on—‘twas on a summer’s morning, in his room. That day he hoped to overcome the triumvirate. oh! Now you weep! And I perceive you feel the dint of pity; these are gracious drops! Kind souls, what weep you, when you but behold our Sumner’s vesture stained? Look you to yonder Southern city, where is himself, marred by the hands of traitor!

“1st Cit. O, piteous spectacle!

“2d Cit. O, Noble Sumer!

“3d Cit. O, woeful day!

“4th Cit. O, traitor villain!

“1st Cit. O, most bloody sight!

“2nd Cit. We will be revenged! revenge! About—seek—burn—fire—kill—slay—let not a traitor live!”

Stop right here holy Beecher, the stones of Boston begin to rise and mutiny!

It is a most excellent oration and has well done its work—grateful, too, to the sufferer, it will be, for the mindful consideration of his classic taste.—Was. Sentinel.

SOURCE: Richmond Daily Whig, Richmond Virginia, Wednesday Morning, May 28, 1856, p. 2

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