It is either hostilities between the government and the seceding states; or, if separation is yielded peaceably, it is a war of factions--a rivalry of insignificant communities, hating each other, and contemned by the civilized world.
Sherman describes the potential outcomes of secession, highlighting the dangers of factionalism.
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The Union already embraces discordant elements enough without adding others.
The events of the future are beyond the vision of mankind, but I hope our people will be content with internal growth, and avoid the complications of foreign acquisitions.
Though my grateful thanks are due to them and have been often expressed, yet I have felt, as they do, that my duty was to the whole country.
Our country, our whole country, and nothing but our country" has been the watchword and creed of my public life.
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