Text: Edgar Allan Poe (?), “[Notice of Steward's The Elements of Empire in America]” (A), from The Evening Mirror (New York), October 30, 1844, vol. 1, no. 21, p. 2, col. 5, middle

[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.