Abraham Lincoln: “Any failure to observe this order will be taken as a forfeiture of the parole or exchange.”

As a general rule I abstain from reading the reports of attacks upon myself, wishing not to be provoked by that to which I cannot properly offer an answer.

I believe that it is not only possible, but in fact easier, to do this without deciding or even considering whether these States have ever been out of the Union, than with it.

I do the very best I know how--the very best I can; and I mean to keep doing so until the end.

I am considering, and shall not fail to act when satisfied that action will be proper.