But where is the philosophy or statesmanship which assumes that you can quiet that disturbing element in our society, which has disturbed us for more than half a century, which has been the only serious danger that has threatened our institutions?
In his final debate with Stephen Douglas, Lincoln questioned the wisdom of any political approach that sought to suppress discussion of the nation's most enduring and dangerous problem.
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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.
The question is, will it be wiser to take it as it is and help to improve it, or to reject and disperse it?
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