I have always found that mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice.

[If not re-elected in 1864] then it will be my duty to so co-operate with the President elect, as to save the Union between the election and the inauguration; as he will have secured his election on such ground that he can not possibly save it afterwards.

We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.

Committee: A group which succeeds in getting something done only when it consists of three members, one of whom happens to be sick and another absent.

If the American people could learn what I know of the fierce hatred of the priests of Rome against our institutions, our schools, our most sacred rights, and our so dearly bought liberties, they would drive them out as traitors.

All things desirable to men are contained in the Bible.

And by virtue of the power, and for the purpose aforesaid, I do order and declare that all persons held as slaves within said designated States, and parts of States, are, and henceforward shall be free; and that the Executive government of the United States, including the military and naval authorities thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of said persons.