My paramount object in this struggle is to save the Union, and is not either to save or to destroy slavery. If I could save the Union without freeing any slave I would do it, and if I could save it by freeing all the slaves I would do it; and if I could save it by freeing some and leaving others alone I would also do that. What I do about slavery, and the colored race, I do because I believe it helps to save the Union; and what I forbear, I forbear because I do not believe it would help to save the Union.
Abraham LincolnThere is another old poet whose name I do not now remember who said, 'Truth is the daughter of Time.'
Abraham LincolnGod bless the Methodist Church - bless all the churches - and blessed be God, Who, in this our great trial, giveth us the churches.
Abraham LincolnThat some should be rich, shows that others may become rich, and, hence, is just encouragement to industry and enterprise.
Abraham Lincoln