This was too much; and the
Secretary received an answer on the very same day, written in Mr.
Lincoln's most masterful manner:
"Whether the remarks were really made I do not know, nor do I suppose
such knowledge is necessary to a correct response. If they were made, I
do not approve them; and yet, under the circumstances, I would not
dismiss a member of the cabinet therefore. I do not consider what may
have been hastily said in a moment of vexation at so severe a loss is
sufficient ground for so grave a step.... I propose continuing to be
myself the judge as to when a member of the cabinet shall be
dismissed."
Not content with this, the President, when the cabinet came together,
read them this impressive little lecture:
"I must myself be the judge how long to retain in and when to remove any
of you from his position. It would greatly pain me to discover any of
you endeavoring to procure another's removal, or in any way to prejudice
him before the public. Such endeavor would be a wrong to me, and, much
worse, a wrong to the country. My wish is that on this subject no remark
be made nor question asked by any of you, here or elsewhere, now or
hereafter."
This is one of the most remarkable speeches ever made by a President.
The tone of authority is unmistakable.
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