I desire the good-will of all, whether hitherto my friends or not.
As soon as slavery fired upon the flag it was felt, we all felt, even those who did not object to slaves, that slavery must be destroyed. We felt that it was a stain to the Union that men should be bought and sold like cattle.
Declare church and state forever separate and distinct; but each free within their proper spheres.
There is nothing more I should do to it now, and therefore I am not likely to be more ready to go than at this moment.
Jesse has a new dog. You may have noticed that his former pets have been peculiarly unfortunate. When this dog dies every employee in the White House will be at once discharged.
When news of the surrender first reached our lines our men commenced firing a salute of a hundred guns in honor of the victory. I at once sent word, however, to have it stopped. The Confederates were now our prisoners, and we did not want to exult over their downfall.
The one thing I never want to see again is a military parade. When I resigned from the army and went to a farm I was happy. When the rebellion came, I returned to the service because it was a duty. I had no thought of rank; all I did was try and make.
I appreciate the fact, and am proud of it, that the attentions I am receiving are intended more for our country than for me personally.
It does look like a very good exercise. But what is the little white ball for?
It is men who wait to be selected, and not those who seek, from whom we may expect the most efficient service.
There are but few important events in the affairs of men brought about by their own choice.
It was my fortune, or misfortune, to be called to the office of Chief Executive without any previous political training.
Everyone has his superstitions. One of mine has always been when I started to go anywhere, accomplished.
No other terms than unconditional and immediate surrender. I propose to move immediately upon your works.
Really, Mr. Lincoln, I have had enough of this show business.
It will be all right if it turns out all right.
Lee’s army will be your objective point. Wherever Lee goes, there you will go also.
I will not move my army without onions.
I have made it a rule of my life to trust a man long after other people gave him up, but I don’t see how I can ever trust any human being again.
In politics I am growing indifferent – I would like it, if I could now return to my planting and books at home.