"It has demonstrated that a people's government can sustain a national election, in the midst of a great civil war."
"It has long been a grave question whether any government, not too strong for the liberties of its people, can be strong enough to maintain its own existence, in great emergencies."
"While I am deeply sensible to the high compliment of a re-election; and duly grateful, as I trust, to Almighty God for having directed my countrymen to a right conclusion, as I think, for their own go..."
"We can not have free government without elections; and if the rebellion could force us to forego, or postpone a national election, it might fairly claim to have already conquered and ruined us."
"And now, let me close by asking three hearty cheers for our brave soldiers and seamen and their gallant and skilful commanders."
"If the loyal people, united, were put to the utmost of their strength by the rebellion, must they not fail when divided, and partially paralized, by a political war among themselves?"
"But the rebellion continues; and now that the election is over, may not all, having a common interest, re-unite in a common effort, to save our common country?"
"But the election was a necessity."
"But the election, along with its incidental, and undesirable strife, has done good too."
"May I ask those who have not differed with me, to join with me, in this same spirit towards those who have?"
"Human-nature will not change."