John Sherman: “A fatal infatuation seems to have seized the southern mind, during which any act of madness may be committed. . . .”

The life of a civilian is in what he says or writes, that of a soldier in what he does.

Proud of Ohio, of its history and people, willing at all times to sound its praise in the sisterhood of states, yet, according to my convictions, the United States is entitled to my allegiance, and all parts of it should receive equal care…

If my life is prolonged I will do all I can to add to the strength and prosperity of the United States, but nothing to extend its limits or to add new dangers by acquisition of foreign territory.

Canada and Mexico as independent republics will be more valuable to the United States than if carved into additional states.