"Gentlemen on this floor [Congress], and in the Senate, had repeatedly, during this discussion, asserted that slavery was a moral, political, and personal blessing; that the slave was free from care, contented, happy, fat, and sleek. Comparisons have been instituted between slaves and laboring freemen, much to the advantage of the condition of slavery. Instances are cited where the slave, after having tried freedom, had voluntarily returned to resume his yoke. Well, if this be so, let us give all a chance to enjoy this blessing. Let the slaves, who choose, go free; and the free, who choose, become slaves. If these gentlemen believe there is a word of truth in what they preach, the slaveholder need be under no apprehension that he will ever lack bondsmen. Their slaves would remain, and many freemen would seek admission into this happy condition. Let them be active in propagating their principles. We will not complain if they establish societies in the South for that purpose -- abolition societies to abolish freedom. Nor will we rob the mails to search for incendiary publications in favor of slavery, even if they contain seductive pictures, and cuts of those implements of happiness -- handcuffs, iron yokes and cat-o'-nine-tails." Selected Papers of Thaddeus Stevens, Vol. 1, by Beverly Wilson Palmer and Holly Byers Ochoa, page 117
In a vote on the Speaker of the House, Steven voted for Gilmer of North Carolina, one of the largest slave owners in Congress. Taken to task for this vote, Stevens said, the reason for his vote was contained in a newspaper article in his hand. He sent the paper to the clerk's desk to be read. The clerk looked at it and announced that it was printed in German and he did not read German. "Well," said Stevens. "Then I postpone my remarks until the clerk can read it." Great Leveler, by Thomas Frederick Woodley, page 194