On the 18th day of February, 1861, a little more than a year ago, Jefferson Davis pronounced his inaugural address at Montgomery. In a speech a day or two previous he said:
“The time for compromise is past, and we are now determined to maintain our position, and make all how oppose us smell Southern gunpowder and feel Southern steel.”
Two weeks later, Mr. Lincoln, from the steps of the Capitol at Washington, in far better taste said:
“Now, in view of the present aspect of affairs, there need be no bloodshed or war. There is no necessity for it. I am not in favor of such a course; and I may say in advance, that there will be no bloodshed unless it is forced upon the government, and then it will be compelled to act in self-defence.”
Such was the spirit of the rebellion, and such that of the government against which it then arrayed itself. On one side, insolence, truculent, blood-thirsty threatening, and aggression. On the other, calm forbearance, but resolute purpose.
A twelve month has demonstrated the old maxim which enjoins upon him that putteth on his armor not to boast as he that putteth it off.
– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 8, 1862, p. 1
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