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

The framers of our Constitution never exhausted so much labor, wisdom, and forbearance in its formation, and surrounded it with so many guards and securities, if it was intended to be broken by every member of the Confederacy at will.

I am now considered such a monster, that I hesitate to darken with my shadow, the doors of those I love, lest I should bring upon them misfortune.

They do not know what they say. If it came to a conflict of arms, the war will last at least four years. Northern politicians will not appreciate the determination and pluck of the South, and Southern politicians do not appreciate the numbers, resources, and patient perseverance of the North. Both sides forget that we are all Americans. I foresee that our country will pass through a terrible ordeal, a necessary expiation, perhaps, for our national sins.

What a cruel thing war is... to fill our hearts with hatred instead of love for our neighbors.

I consider the proper education of our youths one of the most important objects now to be attained and one from which the greatest benefits may be expected.

It is glorious to see such courage in one so young.