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“One by one, the four other delegates who had voted against secession changed their votes. When called upon to answer, I stood up and looked around the room at the hopeful, expectant gazes of my friends and colleagues. I hesitated because I understood the significance of my decision. I hoped that one day they would be able to forgive me. I said, ‘My principles are all Southern.’ At that, the crowd erupted with applause, for they assumed that I, too, would change my vote. However, they soon realized their mistake as I continued: ‘I have cast my vote after mature reflection, and have duly considered the consequences, and I cannot conscientiously change it. I therefore vote no!’ ”
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