On the record
As George Washington, I would do this man any kindness in my power--as President of the United States, I can do nothing.
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gutenberg.orgWilliam Seward: “As George Washington, I would do this man any kindness in my power--as President of the United States, I can do nothing.”
Editor's note · Context
Seward reflects on the limitations of presidential power compared to personal relationships.
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More from William Seward
In unfolding to my countrymen the principles by which I shall be governed, in the fulfilment of those duties, my first resort will be to that constitution which I shall swear, to the best of my ability, to preserve, protect, and defend.
Sink or swim, live or die, survive or perish with my country is my unalterable determination.
It should be your care therefore, and mine, to elevate the minds of our children, and exalt their courage, to accelerate and animate their industry and activity, to excite in them an habitual contempt of meanness, abhorrence of injustice…
The policy of the United States, with reference to foreign nations, has always been founded upon the moral principle of natural law--Peace with all mankind.
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