11/18/1863
https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu...
"By fair construction persons within these sections are not to be punished without regular trials in duly constituted courts."
"There is much in the bill to which I perceive no objection."
"I think the greater punishment can not be constitutionally inflicted in a different form for the same offense."
"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."