Meaning: The quote "Entertaining these opinions of the course to be pursued, I beg of gentlemen to look at the question, as I have done, in a calm review of facts and of principles" is from Caleb Cushing, an American diplomat, lawyer, and politician who served as a U.S. Congressman, Attorney General, and U.S. Minister to China. Cushing's words reflect a plea for reasoned and thoughtful consideration of a particular issue or course of action.

In this quote, Cushing appears to be urging his audience to approach a certain matter with open-mindedness and a willingness to examine it thoroughly. By using the phrase "entertaining these opinions," he suggests that he is open to considering different viewpoints and perspectives. Furthermore, his request for "gentlemen to look at the question" indicates a desire for a collective and rational examination of the issue at hand.

The phrase "in a calm review of facts and of principles" underscores the importance of approaching the question with a sense of composure and a focus on evidence-based analysis. Cushing seems to advocate for a thoughtful and deliberate approach that takes into account both factual information and underlying principles relevant to the matter being discussed.

Cushing's emphasis on a "calm review" suggests a need to avoid emotional or impulsive reactions when considering the issue. Instead, he advocates for a measured and rational assessment that is based on an objective evaluation of facts and principles. By using the term "calm," he may be cautioning against the influence of passion or bias in the decision-making process, emphasizing the importance of level-headedness and reason.

Overall, Cushing's quote can be interpreted as a call for thoughtful and reasoned deliberation. It reflects a commitment to examining issues in a thorough and principled manner, free from the sway of emotion or preconceived notions. By urging his audience to adopt this approach, Cushing emphasizes the importance of objectivity and careful consideration in addressing complex matters.

Cushing's background as a diplomat and lawyer suggests that this quote may be reflective of his experiences in navigating contentious and intricate diplomatic negotiations or legal proceedings. His plea for a calm and principled review of facts aligns with the approach often taken in these professional settings, where informed and rational decision-making is crucial.

In today's context, Cushing's words remain relevant in advocating for a thoughtful and evidence-based approach to addressing complex issues. With the prevalence of polarized opinions and heated debates in various domains, the call for a calm review of facts and principles serves as a reminder of the value of reasoned discourse and informed decision-making.

In conclusion, Caleb Cushing's quote encapsulates a plea for a thoughtful and measured approach to addressing significant questions or challenges. By emphasizing the importance of a calm review of facts and principles, he advocates for a deliberative and principled examination of issues, free from the influence of emotion or bias. This call for reasoned consideration remains pertinent in contemporary discourse, serving as a reminder of the importance of approaching complex matters with a commitment to objectivity and evidence-based analysis.