There is nothing left for me to do but to go and see General Grant and I would rather die a thousand deaths.

I pray that on this day [Christmas] when only peace and good-will are preached to mankind, better thoughts may fill the hearts of our enemies and turn them to peace.

I would rather die a thousand deaths than surrender.

For I consider the character of no man affected by a want of success, provided he has made an honest effort to succeed.

So far from engaging in a war to perpetuate slavery, I am rejoiced that slavery is abolished.

All that the South has ever desired was that the Union, as established by our forefathers, should be preserved, and that the government as originally organized should be administered in purity and truth.

The enemy is here, and if we do not whip him, he will whip us.