I do but quote from one of those speeches when I declare that "I have no purpose, directly or indirectly, to interfere with the institution of slavery in the States where it exists. I believe I have no lawful right to do so, and I have no inclination to do so."

What constitutes the bulwark of our own liberty and independence?

With this honor devolves upon you also a corresponding responsibility. As the country herein trusts you, so under God it will sustain you.

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.

I wish all men to be free. I wish the material prosperity of the already free which I feel sure the extinction of slavery would bring.

Without slavery the rebellion could never have existed; without slavery it could not continue.

The political horizon looks dark and lowering; but the people, under Providence, will set all right.