On the record
Lincoln was conservative, and always desired to keep somewhat in the rear rather than too far in advance of the public judgment.
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gutenberg.orgEditor's note · Context
Blaine reflects on Abraham Lincoln's cautious approach to public opinion regarding slavery.
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Crises often arise in the conduct of National affairs when cherished opinions must be sacrificed and new departures taken.
Durant speaks of no duty, apparently thinks of none resting upon Southern Union men.
If you are not ready to be the Moses of an oppressed people, do not become their Pharaoh.
In my judgment our sole authority for the acts which we have done during the last four years was the authority communicated to Congress by the Constitution to suppress insurrection.
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