I trust this will not be regarded as a
menace, but only as the declared purpose of the Union that it will
constitutionally defend and maintain itself.
In doing this there needs to be no bloodshed or violence; and
there shall be none, unless it be forced upon the national
authority. The power confided to me will be used to hold, occupy,
and possess the property and places belonging to the Government, and
to collect the duties and imposts; but beyond what may be necessary
for these objects, there will be no invasion, no using of force
against or among the people anywhere. Where hostility to the United
States, in any interior locality, shall be so great and universal as
to prevent competent resident citizens from holding the Federal
offices, there will be no attempt to force obnoxious strangers among
the people for that object. While the strict legal right may exist
in the Government to enforce the exercise of these offices, the
attempt to do so would be so irritating, and so nearly impracticable
withal, that I deem it better to forego for the time the uses of
such offices.
The mails, unless repelled, will continue to be furnished in all
parts of the Union. So far as possible, the people everywhere shall
have that sense of perfect security which is most favorable to calm
thought and reflection. The course here indicated will be followed
unless current events and experience shall show a modification or
change to be proper, and in every case and exigency my best discretion
will be exercised according to circumstances actually existing, and
with a view and a hope of a peaceful solution of the national
troubles, and the restoration of fraternal sympathies and affections.
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