Matt, I don't think I've ever seen this sentiment expressed quite so beautifully or succinctly. I think people who don't quite get your point should read it over and over and over until they do.

And, after all is said and done, to the tune of 10,000 pompous words like Everett Horton vs. Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg dedication, it bears repeating at every paragraph ending.

I think other strong American Unionist patriots like Chase, if I read him correctly, would surely agree with you on that account.