As the chief speaker at the dedication of the national cemetery at the Gettysburg Battlefield, statesman Edward Everett wrote to Lincoln: I should be glad if I could flatter myself that I came as near to the central idea of the occasion in two hours as you did in two minutes.

How many times have I laughed at you telling me plainly that I was too lazy to be anything but a lawyer.

When you have got an elephant by the hind legs and he is trying to run away, it's best to let him run.

Our common country is in great peril, demanding the loftiest views, and boldest action to bring it speedy relief.

You think slavery is right and ought to be extended; while we think it is wrong and ought to be restricted. That I suppose is the rub. It certainly is the only substantial difference between us.

confused and Stunned, like a duck hit on the head.

Let us at all times remember that all American citizens are brothers of a common country, and should dwell together in bonds of fraternal feeling.