In 1856...I preferred the success of a candidate whose election would prevent or postpone secession, to seeing the country plunged into a war the end of which no man could foretell. With a Democrat elected by the unanimous vote of the Slave States, there could be no pretext for secession for four years.... I therefore voted for James Buchanan as President.

In 1850, I believe, the church property in the United States, which paid no tax, amounted to $87 million. In 1900, without a check, it is safe to say, this property will reach a sum exceeding $3 billion. I would suggest the taxation of all property equally.

I propose to fight it out on this line if it takes all summer.

The cause of the great War of the Rebellion against the United Status will have to be attributed to slavery.

I have made it a rule of my life to trust a man long after other people gave him up, but I don't see how I can ever trust any human being again.

Really, Mr. Lincoln, I have had enough of this show business.

It is men who wait to be selected, and not those who seek, from whom we may expect the most efficient service.