_Lincoln_: Seward and Hook have both had great experience.

_Macintosh_: Hook had no strong support. For Seward, there are doubts
as to his discretion.

_Lincoln_: Do not be under any misunderstanding, I beg you. I aim
at moderation so far as it is honest. But I am a very stubborn man,
gentlemen. If the South insists upon the extension of slavery, and
claims the right to secede, as you know it very well may do, and the
decision lies with me, it will mean resistance, inexorable, with blood
if needs be. I would have everybody's mind clear as to that.

_Price_: It will be for you to decide, and we believe you to be an
upright man, Mr. Lincoln.

_Lincoln_: Seward and Hook would be difficult to carry as
subordinates.

_Tucker_: But they will have to be carried so, and there's none
likelier for the job than you.

_Lincoln_: Will your Republican Press stand by me for a principle,
James, whatever comes?

_Macintosh_: There's no other man we would follow so readily.

_Lincoln_: If you send me, the South will have little but derision for
your choice.

_Hind_: We believe that you'll last out their laughter.