Let the people know the truth and the country is safe.

A new book is like a friend that I have yet to meet

Nothing is stronger than gentleness.

I have seen your despatch expressing your unwillingness to break your hold where you are. Neither am I willing. Hold on with a bull-dog gripe, and chew & choke, as much as possible.

I find quite as much material for a lecture in those points wherein I have failed, as in those wherein I have been moderately successful.

It has been my experience that folks who have no vices have very few virtues.

I am approached with the most opposite opinions and advice, and that by religious men, who are equally certain that they represent the Divine will. ... I hope it will not be irreverent for me to say that if it is probable that God would reveal his will to others, on a point so connected with my duty, it might be supposed he would reveal it directly to me... These are not, however, the days of miracles ... I must study the plain physical facts of the case, ascertain what is possible, and learn what appears to be wise and right.