In their training, in their habits of mind, in their pride and independence, in their lack of discipline and submission, they were perhaps specially fitted for opposition, and not so well adapted as men of less power, to the responsibility and detail of administration.
Blaine analyzes the characteristics of Whig leaders, suggesting they were better suited for opposition than governance.
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An avenging God cannot sleep while such things find countenance.
The wonder excited by the raising of the vast army which saved the Union from destruction was even surpassed by the wonder excited by its prompt and peaceful dissolution.
Their success as civil magistrates, as legislators, as executives was not less marked and meritorious than their illustrious service in war.
I refer myself not to the men of my time, but to the judgment of history.
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