War is cruelty, and none can make it gentle.

You cannot qualify war in harsher terms than I will. War is cruelty, and you cannot refine it; and those who brought war into our country deserve all the curses and maledictions a people can pour out. I know I had no hand in making this war, and I know I will make more sacrifices to-day than any of you to secure peace.

And now look at the great war still devastating Europe: think of the colossal brutality, cruelty, and mendacity which is now allowed to spread itself over the civilized world. Do you really believe that a handful of unprincipled place—hunters and corrupters of men would have succeeded in letting loose all this latent evil, if the millions of their followers were not also guilty?

If the people raise a howl against my barbarity and cruelty, I will answer that war is war, and not popularity seeking.

If the people raise a great howl against my barbarity and cruelty, I will answer that war is war, and not popularity seeking

Stand your ground. Don't fire unless fired upon, but if they mean to have a war, let it begin here.