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.

The art of leadership... consists in consolidating the attention of the people against a single adversary and taking care that nothing will split up that attention.

You think slavery is right and ought to be extended; while we think it is wrong and ought to be restricted. That I suppose is the rub. It certainly is the only substantial difference between us.

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.

What is our present condition? We have just carried an election on principles fairly stated to the people. Now we are told in advance, the government shall be broken up, unless we surrender to those we have beaten, before we take the offices.