“Our first duty is to provide safeguards for the future. This can
be only by provisions, sure, fundamental, and irrepealable, fixing
forever the results of the war, the obligations of the Government,
and the equal rights of all. Such is the suggestion of common
prudence and of self-defence, as well as of common honesty. To this
end we must make haste slowly. States which precipitated themselves
out of Congress must not be permitted to precipitate themselves
back. They must not enter the Halls they treasonably deserted,
until we have every reasonable assurance of future good conduct. We
must not admit them, and then repent our folly.…
“But, while holding this ground of prudence, I desire to disclaim
every sentiment of vengeance or punishment, and also every thought
of delay or procrastination. Here I do not yield to the President,
or to any other person. Nobody more anxious than I to see this
chasm closed forever.
“_There is a long way and a short way. There is a long time and a
short time._ If there be any whose policy is for the longest way
or for the longest time, I am not of the number. _I am for the
shortest way, and also for the shortest time._”[219]
Then in considering Reconstruction in the Senate, March 16, 1867, I
said:--
“But I ask nothing in vengeance or unkindness. All that I propose
is for their good, with which is intertwined the good of all.
I would not impose any new penalty or bear hard upon an erring
people. Oh, no! I simply ask a new safeguard for the future, that
these States, through which so much trouble has come, may be a
strength and a blessing to our common country, with prosperity
and happiness everywhere within their borders. I would not impose
any new burden; but I seek a new triumph for civilization. _For a
military occupation bristling with bayonets I would substitute the
smile of Peace._”