12/19/1858
https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu...
"However strong may be my desire to enter into such an agreement, I am convinced that I do not possess the power."
"It is my duty at all times to defend and protect the public property within the seceding States so far as this may be practicable."
"I am one of those who will never despair of the Republic."
"I confess I hail this movement on the part of Virginia with great satisfaction."