I make no pretension to patriotism. So long as my voice can be heard on this or the other side of the Atlantic, I will hold up America to the lightning scorn of moral indignation. In doing this, I shall feel myself discharging the duty of a true patriot; for he is a lover of his country who rebukes and does not excuse its sins. It is righteousness that exalteth a nation while sin is a reproach to any people.

Speech, "Love of God, Love of Man, Love of Country", Syracuse, New York (September 24, 1847) - Love of God, Love of Man, Love of Country (1847)