The angels are ministering spirits; they are not governing spirits.

I want you to understand that I respect the rights of the poorest and weakest of colored people, oppressed by the slave system, just as much as I do those of the most wealthy and powerful. That is the idea that has moved me, and that alone.

Caution, Sir! I am eternally tired of hearing that word caution. It is nothing but the word of cowardice!

I never wanted to fight against the Union, but could not turn my back on Virginia.

I don't think the people of the slave states will ever consider the subject of slavery in its true light till some other argument is resorted to other than moral persuasion.

I am quite certain that the crimes of this guilty land will never be purged away but with blood. I had, as I now think vainly, flattered myself that without very much bloodshed it might be done.

I cannot remember a night so dark as to have hindered the coming day.