What can be indissoluble if a perpetual Union, made more perfect, is not?

What you have said, Mr. President, fully satisfies me that you have given to every proposition which has been made, a kind and candid consideration. And you have now expressed the conclusion to which you have arrived, clearly and distinctly.

The Constitution in all its provisions looks to an indestructible union disposed of indestructible States.

A resignation is a grave act; never performed by a right minded man without forethought or with reserve.

I never refused my help to any person black or white; and I liked the office nonetheless because there were neither fees nor salary connected with it.

And upon this act, sincerely believed to be an act of justice, warranted by the Constitution, upon military necessity, I invoke the considerate judgment of all mankind, and the gracious favor of Almighty God.