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

At the beginning of the war, and for some time, the use of colored troops was not contemplated; and how the change of purpose was wrought, I will not now take time to explain. Upon a clear conviction of duty I resolved to turn that element of strength to account; and I am responsible for it to the American people, to the christian world, to history, and on my final account to God.

The eyes of that species of extinct giant, whose bones fill the mounds of America, have gazed on Niagara as our eyes do now.

I claim not to have controlled events, but confess plainly that events have controlled me.

Discipline is choosing between what you want now, and what you want most.

If I had my way, this war would never have been commenced. If I had been allowed my way this war would have been ended before this.

Thus let bygones be bygones. Let past differences, as nothing be.