Abraham Lincoln: “As a rule, I think it better that Congress should originate as well as perfect its measures without external bias.”

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

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

If the end brings me out wrong, ten angels swearing I was right would make no difference.