"I prefer, in a word, the republican system, because it comes up more nearly to God's system"

Gerrit Smith's quote suggests that he believes the republican system of federal government is the most closely lined up with God's system. He suggests that the republican system is the most just and equitable kind of government, as it is the most comparable to the system God has established. Smith likely thinks that the republican system is the most effective way to make sure that all people are treated fairly and equally, which their rights are appreciated. He may also be suggesting that the republican system is the most ethical form of federal government, as it is the most closely aligned with God's system. Smith's quote implies that he believes the republican system is the best method to ensure justice and fairness for all residents, and that it is the most moral kind of federal government.