with the perpetuation of the liberties of this people, or anything in conflict with anything whatever that I have ever given you reason to expect from me.  And now, my friends, have I said enough? [Loud cries of “No, no!” and, “Three cheers for Lincoln!”] Now, my friends, there appears to be a difference of opinion between you and me, and I really feel called upon to decide the question myself.

REPLY TO THE MAYOR OF NEW YORK CITY,

FEBRUARY 20, 1861

Mr. Mayor:—­It is with feelings of deep gratitude that I make my acknowledgments for the reception that has been given me in the great commercial city of New York.  I cannot but remember that it is done by the people who do not, by a large majority, agree with me in political sentiment.  It is the more grateful to me because in this I see that for the great principles of our Government the people are pretty nearly or quite unanimous.  In regard to the difficulties that confront us at this time, and of which you have seen fit to speak so becomingly and so justly, I can only say I agree with the sentiments expressed.  In my devotion to the Union I hope I am behind no man in the nation.  As to my wisdom in conducting affairs so as to tend to the preservation of the Union, I fear too great confidence may have been placed in me.  I am sure I bring a heart devoted to the work.  There is nothing that could ever bring me to consent—­willingly to consent—­to the destruction of this Union (in which not only the great city of New York, but the whole country, has acquired its greatness), unless it would be that thing for which the Union itself was made.  I understand that the ship is made for the carrying and preservation of the cargo; and so long as the ship is safe with the cargo, it shall not be abandoned.  This Union shall never be abandoned, unless the possibility of its existence shall cease to exist without the necessity of throwing passengers and cargo overboard.  So long, then, as it is possible that the prosperity and liberties of this people can be preserved within this Union, it shall be my purpose at all tunes to preserve it.  And now, Mr. Mayor, renewing my thanks for this cordial reception, allow me to come to a close.

ADDRESS AT JERSEY CITY, NEW JERSEY

FEBRUARY 21, 1860

Mr. Dayton and gentlemen of the state of new Jersey:—­I shall only thank you briefly for this very kind reception given me, not personally, but as the temporary representative of the majesty of the nation.  To the kindness of your hearts, and of the hearts of your brethren in your State, I should be very proud to respond, but I shall not have strength to address you or other assemblages at length, even if I had the time to do so.  I appear before you, therefore, for little else than to greet you, and to briefly say farewell.