The legitimate object of government is to do for a community of people whatever they need to have done, but can not do at all, or can not so well do, for themselves – in their separate, and individual capacities.

The loss of enemies does not compensate for the loss of friends.

By all means, don't say, "if I can," say "I will."

Tis better people think you a fool, then open your mouth and erase all doubt.

As I would not be a slave, so I would not be a master. This expresses my idea of democracy.

I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live up to the light I have. I must stand with anybody that stands right - stand with him while he is right and part with him when he goes wrong.

In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow-countrymen, and not in mine, is the momentous issue of civil war.