At the depot
My friends -- No one, not in my situation, can appreciate my feeling of sadness at this parting. To this place, and the kindness of these people, I owe every thing. Here I have lived a quarter of a century, and have passed from a young to an old man. Here my children have been born, and one is buried. I now leave, not knowing when, or whether ever, I may return, with a task before me greater than that which rested upon Washington. Without the assistance of the Divine Being who ever attended him, I cannot succeed. With that assistance I cannot fail. Trusting in Him who can go with me, and remain with you and be every where for good, let us confidently hope that all will yet be well. To His care commending you, as I hope in your prayers you will commend me, I bid you an affectionate farewell.
Comments (1)
I have the good fortune to share my birthday with Lincoln, and have always felt the connection - from being born in a log cabin in north Idaho, to handling his items when the Smithsonian exhibit was here many years ago. To have leaders half as wise today . . .
Posted by umpire | February 13, 2011 4:37 PM