Could the Government have had the advantage of a small area for its military operations, its power to overcome the rebellion would have been greatly enhanced, and an army not exceeding half of that which was raised could have vindicated the authority of the flag and maintained the integrity of the Union.
Blaine reflects on how a smaller geographical area could have improved military efficiency during the Civil War.
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The Northern people shrank from the responsibility of transferring the government of States to the control of men who had already shown themselves capable of desperate deeds.
With whatever strength or prestige the President left Washington, he certainly returned to the Capital personally discredited and politically ruined.
In all the revolted states, upon the testimony of your ablest generals, there is no safety to the property or lives of loyal men.
I am in no boastful mood: I shall not do more than I can, but I shall do all I can to save the Government, which is my sworn duty as well as my personal inclination.
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