It is easiest to "be all things to all men," but it is not honest. Self-respect must be sacrificed every hour in the day.

Wise statesmen ... established these great self-evident truths, that when in the distant future some man, some faction, some interest, should set up the doctrine that none but rich men, or none but white men, were entitled to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, their posterity should look up again at the Declaration of Independence and take courage to renew the battle which their fathers began.

Liquor may have its defenders, but it has no defense.

No matter how much cats fight, there always seem to be plenty of kittens.

I repeat the declaration made a year ago, that 'while I remain in my present position I shall not attempt to retract or modify the emancipation proclamation, nor shall I return to slavery any person who is free by the terms of that proclamation, or by any of the Acts of Congress.' If the people should, by whatever mode or means, make it an Executive duty to re-enslave such persons, another, and not I, must be their instrument to perform it.

Let us do nothing through passion and ill temper.

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