When you have got an elephant by the hind legs and he is trying to run away, it's best to let him run.
On the recordMay 5, 1861
Source
nps.govEditor's note · Context
A humorous take on the wisdom of knowing when to let go.
Share
More from Abraham Lincoln
Mar 26, 1865
Second. That the flag, when raised, be saluted by one hundred guns from Fort Sumter and by a national salute from every fort and rebel battery that fired upon Fort Sumter.
Apr 11, 1865
If I were to try to read, much less answer, all the attacks made on me, this shop might as well be closed for any other business.
Mar 13, 1865
Provost-marshals and marshals of the United States will arrest and commit to military custody all such offenders as shall disregard this order, whether they have passports or not, and they will be detained in such custody until the end of…
Mar 16, 1865
Whenever I hear anyone arguing for slavery, I feel a strong impulse to see it tried on him personally.





