“I do not feel justified to enter upon the broad field you present in regard to the political differences between radicals and conservatives. From time to time I have done and said what appeared to me proper to do and say. The public knows it all. It obliges nobody to follow me, and I trust it obliges me to follow nobody. The radicals and conservatives, each agree with me in some things, and disagree in others. I could wish both to agree with me in all things; for then they would agree with each other, and would be too strong for any foe from any quarter. They, however, choose to do otherwise, and I do not question their right. I too shall do what seems to be my duty.”
Remarks, Washington, D.C., October 5, 1863
- Please refer to The Look to Lincoln Disclaimer.
- Link to All Lincoln Guideposts (without readers’ comments).
- Link to Index of Lincoln Guideposts (listing by topic).
Read and make comments below…