Abraham Lincoln: “Can we, can they, by any other means so certainly or so speedily assure these vital objects?”

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.

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.

If the end brings me out all right, what is said against me won't amount to anything.