To those who would submit to the rightful law and authority, all gentleness and forbearance; but to the petulant and persistent secessionists, why, death is mercy, and the quicker he or she is disposed of the better. Satan and the rebellious saints of Heaven were allowed a continuous existence in hell merely to swell their just punishment. To such as would rebel against a Government so mild and just as ours was in peace, a punishment equal would not be unjust.

The carping and bickering of political factions in the nation's capital reminds me of two pelicans quarreling over a dead fish.

If forced to choose between the penitentiary and the White House for four years, I would say the penitentiary, thank you.

But, my dear sirs, when peace does come, you may call on me for any thing. Then will I share with you the last cracker, and watch with you to shield your homes and families against danger from every quarter.

I see every chance of a long, confused and disorganizing civil war, and I feel no desire to take a hand therein.

We must act with vindictive earnestness against the Sioux, even to their extermination, men, women and children... during an assault, the soldiers cannot pause to distinguish between male and female, or even discriminate as to age.

If nominated by either party, I should peremptorily decline, and even if unanimously elected, I should decline to serve.