706

603. Charles S. Zane (Statement for William H. Herndon).

[undated]

In the prosecution of the war Mr Lincoln used such measures as he believed would be most likely to accomplish the paramount object, which was the preservation of the Union, and refused to use those which he believed would not be likely to aid in its preservation — He said in his letter to Mr Greely that "he would try to correct errors when shown to be errors and would adopt new views so fast as they should appear to be true views."

That which was necessary to accomplish his purpose was power; which consisted in the Confidence and Support of the people; when he believed another policy than the one he was using would give the people greater Confidence and bring more Support he would adopt the new policy. — He never Changed the paramount object of the war though he did change his war measures and policies.

Library of Congress: Herndon-Weik Collection. Manuscript Division. Library of Congress. Washington, D.C. 4016