We find ourselves under the government of a system of political institutions, conducing more essentially to the ends of civil and religious liberty, than any of which the history of former times tells us.

Such a man the times have demanded, and such, in the providence of God was given us. But he is gone. Let us strive to deserve, as far as mortals may, the continued care of Divine Providence, trusting that, in future national emergencies, He will not fail to provide us the instruments of safety and security.

The damnest scoundrel that ever lived, but in the infinite mercy of Providence... also the damnest fool.

The leading rule for a man of every calling is diligence; never put off until tomorrow what you can do today.

Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth.

I shall not do more than I can, and I shall do all I can to save the government, which is my sworn duty as well as my personal inclination. I shall do nothing in malice. What I deal with is too vast for malicious dealing.

If we cannot give freedom to every creature, let us do nothing that will impose slavery upon any other creature.