of the present question principally depend, it claims particular attention.
Two extremes are here to be avoided. The union, whatever it may be, must not be so far exaggerated, as to absorb personal identity, or change the moral responsibility of the individuals. The former involves a contradiction, and the latter is equally absurd. But on the other part, it must not be reduced to a mere metaphorical term, expressive of nothing more than a community of affections, cares, and interests, or at most, a federal compact.
Mankind are united by many different bonds. They all partake of the same nature, and thus far they are all one. In societies connections are formed of every description, and an union, as far as it respects the objects of such associations, is thereby produced. By covenants also, persons unite in various ways, and for different purposes. But there is no union effected by any or all of these, that can produce such an essential change, or fix a source of new relations similar to that which marriage creates.
