The Writings of Carl Schurz/To Goldwin Smith, November 9th, 1898
TO GOLDWIN SMITH
Thanks for your kind letter of the 6th. Most assuredly do I oppose the policy of Imperialism. I regard that question as by far the most important before the American people. All other questions are, in my opinion, subordinated to it. There is some hope that the calamity may still be averted.
The argument you suggest is certainly a very weighty one. But it ought to come from your side of the line, not from ours. Can you not find an opportunity for launching it in a manner to attract general attention in the United States? All you write about such matters is read with the greatest respect by our people. You can speak to them on the subject of Continental Union with that authority which high character and universally recognized sincerity commands. I hope you will.