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.

Do not destroy that immortal emblem of humanity, the Declaration of Independence.

We believe that the spreading out and perpetuity of the institution of slavery impairs the general welfare. We believe - nay, we know, that that is the only thing that has ever threatened the perpetuity of the Union itself.

I know that the Lord is always on the side of the right. But it is my constant anxiety and prayer that I and this nation should be on the Lord's side.

Nations do not die from invasion; they die from internal rottenness.

A noble spirit embiggens the smallest man.

I know the hole he went in at, but I can't tell you what hole he will come out of.