By the frame of the government under which we live, this same people have wisely given their public servants but little power for mischief; and have, with equal wisdom, provided for the return of that little to their own hands at very short intervals.
In his first inaugural address, Lincoln praised the constitutional design for limiting the power of public servants and ensuring regular accountability to the people.
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More from Abraham Lincoln
Unlike a case of war between independent nations, there is no organized organ for us to treat with,--no one man has authority to give up the rebellion for any other man.
If the end brings me out wrong, ten angels swearing I was right would make no difference.
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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