I think that if anything can be proved by natural theology, it is that slavery is morally wrong.

If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong. I can not remember when I did not so think ... to this day, I have done no official act in mere deference to my abstract judgment and feeling on slavery.

Slavery is founded in the selfishness of man's nature - opposition to it is [in] his love of justice.

Whenever I hear anyone arguing for slavery I feel a strong impulse to see it tried on him personally.

If the negro is a man, why then my ancient faith teaches me that ``all men are created equal;'' and that there can be no moral right in connection with one man's making a slave of another.

I never mean, unless some particular circumstances should compel it, to possess another slave by purchase, it being among my first wishes to see some plan adopted, by which slavery in this country may be abolished by law.