I shall do all that may be in my power to promote a peaceful settlement of all our difficulties. The man does not live who is more devoted to peace than I am.

My opinion is that no state can, in any way lawfully, get out of the Union, without the consent of the others; and that it is the duty of the President, and other government functionaries to run the machine as it is.

In times like the present, men should utter nothing for which they would not willingly be responsible through time and in eternity.

If there is a worse place than hell, I am in it.

General McClellan and myself are to be photographed ... if we can be still long enough. I feel General McClellan should have no problem.

The North responds to the proclamation sufficiently in breath; but breath alone kills no rebels.