The more apparent it was that inconsistency reigned ins the Lincolnian
Cabinet, the more earnestly the marplots strove to incite them
individually against one another and their head. A speculator who had
induced the latter to oblige him with a permit to trade in cotton
reported with zest how Secretary Stanton had no sooner seen the paper
than, instead of countersigning, he tore up the leaf without respect
even for the august signature. Stanton was famous for irascibility. And
he did not forbear to manifest it toward all, even to the President.
But, as the latter observed, hot or cold, Stanton is generally right.
This time he was not sorry at heart for the reproof as to his allowing
a signal favor which might work harm. But, affecting rage, he blurted
out:
"Oh, he tore my paper, did he? Go and tell Stanton that I will tear up
a dozen of _his_ papers before Saturday night!"
* * * * *