Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln. Volume 4 [Mar. 5, 1860-Oct. 24, 1861].
About this Item
Title
Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln. Volume 4 [Mar. 5, 1860-Oct. 24, 1861].
Author
Lincoln, Abraham, 1809-1865.
Publication
New Brunswick, N.J.: Rutgers University Press
1953.
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"Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln. Volume 4 [Mar. 5, 1860-Oct. 24, 1861]." In the digital collection Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln. https://name.umdl.umich.edu/lincoln4. University of Michigan Library Digital Collections. Accessed April 24, 2024.
Gentlemen: I trust you will not censure me for thus appearing before you, and assuming such a prominent position, for there is a kind of rule that constrains me to do so. I am aware that you are more desirous of having Gen. Scott appear before you than myself, and I therefore take great pleasure in introducing him to you.
Gentlemen, I appear before you in obedience to your call; not, however, to make a speech. I have made a great many poor speeches in my life, and I feel considerably relieved now to know that the dignity of the position in which I have been placed does not permit me to expose myself any longer. [``Go on!'' and laughter.] I therefore take shelter, most gladly, in standing back and allowing you to hear speeches from gentlemen who are so very much more able to make them than myself. [``Go on!''] I thank you for the kindness of your call, but I must keep good my word, and not be led into a speech, as I told you I did not appear for that purpose. [Laughter and applause.]
descriptionPage 442
Annotation
[1] Washington, D.C., National Republican, July 8, 1861. Following the review of the New York regiments, the president introduced General Winfield Scott, members of the cabinet, and other officers on the platform, most of whom made short speeches. Lincoln's further remarks were in response to the call of the crowd.