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III

and welfare of the whole would be most effectually promoted. The result of the experiment has been attended with the most complete success and proves that it is the dictate of prudence and patriotism to adhere strictly to the provisions of the national compact, and to preserve inviolate the harmony of the Union as the firmest quarantee of our independence and prosperity. It becomes therefore, the duty as well as the interest of the individual States on all occasions to respect the legitimate authority of the General Government, and to yield a ready compliance with its laws, and acquiescence in its constitutional measures. In the language of Washington, "these are duties required by the fundamental maximum of true liberty." But while the legitimate authority of the General Government, as exercised by its legislative, executive, and judicial departments, is thus fully and cheerfully acknowledged, the individual States from regard to their own preservation, are bound to protect their limited sovereignty from violation, and have a constitutional right to require of that government a performance of all those obligations intended for the protection and benefit of each separate State of the Union.