As our case is new, so we must think anew, and act anew.

One section of our country believes slavery is right, and ought to be extended, while the other believes it is wrong, and ought not to be extended.

It behooves us then to humble ourselves before the offended Power to confess our national sins and to pray for clemency and forgiveness.

I think the authors of that notable instrument [the Declaration of Independence] intended to include all men.

Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them?

The strength of a nation lies in the homes of its people.

A nation may be said to consist of its territory, its people, and its laws. The territory is the only part which is of certain durability.