"I think the greater punishment can not be constitutionally inflicted in a different form for the same offense."
"For the reasons stated, I return the bill to the House, in which it originated."
"I perceive no objection to Congress deciding in advance that they shall be free."
"For the patriotic act in making this magnificent and valuable present to the country, I recommend that some suitable acknowledgment be made."
"By fair construction persons within these sections are not to be punished without regular trials in duly constituted courts."
"I am ready to say now, I think it is proper for our military commanders to employ as laborers as many persons of African descent as can be used to advantage."
"To the tenth section I make no objection."
"Please inform the Senate that I shall be obliged if they will postpone the adjournment at least one day beyond the time which I understand to be now fixed for it."
"Herewith is a draft of a bill to compensate any State which may abolish slavery within its limits, the passage of which substantially as presented I respectfully and earnestly recommend."
"Break that lever before their faces, and they can shake you no more forever."
"I do not speak of emancipation at once, but of a decision at once to emancipate gradually."
"I intend no reproach or complaint when I assure you that, in my opinion, if you all had voted for the resolution in the gradual-emancipation message of last March, the war would now be substantially e..."
"Let the States which are in rebellion see definitely and certainly that in no event will the States you represent ever join their proposed confederacy, and they cannot much longer maintain the contest..."
"How much better for you and for your people to take the step which at once shortens the war and secures substantial compensation for that which is sure to be wholly lost in any other event!"
"To you, more than to any others, the privilege is given to assure that happiness and swell that grandeur, and to link your own names therewith forever."
"Our common country is in great peril, demanding the loftiest views and boldest action to bring a speedy relief."
"I recommend that the thanks of Congress be given to the following officers of the United States Navy"
"Ordered, That Major-General Henry W. Halleck be assigned to command the whole land forces of the United States as General in Chief, and that he repair to this capital as soon as he can with safety to ..."
