Whenever the issue can be distinctly made, and all extraneous matter thrown out, so that men can fairly see the real difference between the parties, this controversy will soon be settled, and it will be done peaceably, too.
In his final debate with Stephen Douglas, Lincoln expresses optimism that a clear understanding of fundamental issues will lead to a peaceful resolution.
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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.
Grant that he desires the elective franchise, will he not attain it sooner by saving the already advanced steps towards it, than by running backward over them?
If the end brings me out all right, what is said against me won't amount to anything.
He said, with a great deal of emphasis, and with an expression of countenance I shall never forget: "When a man is sincerely penitent for his misdeeds, and gives satisfactory evidence of the same, he can safely be pardoned, and there is no…
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