Woodrow Wilson actually said...

I am sure that I am speaking the mind of all thoughtful Americans when I say that it is our duty as the representatives of the nation to do ...

To assume control of the vast railway systems of the country is, I realize, a very great responsibility.

It is hereby ordered, under authority found in the act of June twenty-first, nineteen hundred and six.

It is hereby directed that the possession, control, operation and utilization of such transportation systems hereby by me undertaken shall b...