My movements to the chair of government will be accompanied by feelings not unlike those of a culprit who is going to the place of his execution. – George Washington, letter, 1789

He raised his hands, not to strike, but in benediction. Lincoln was the grandest figure of the fiercest civil war. He is the gentlest memory of our world. – Robert G. Ingersoll

No man will ever bring out of the Presidency the reputation which carries him into it. – Thomas Jefferson, letter, 1796