The people of the South have too much of good sense, and good temper, to attempt the ruin of the government ... At least, so I hope and believe.

According to our ancient faith, the just powers of government are derived from the consent of the governed.

The government, whether state or central, is elected. That means we have a responsibility to elect the right kind of leaders.

A house divided against itself cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure permanently half slave and half free.

We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies... the mystic chords of memory... will swell the chorus of the Union... touched by the better angels of our nature.

While the people retain their virtue and vigilance, no administration... can very seriously injure the government