US Presidency
1865

On the other hand, every danger of conflict is avoided when the settlementof the question is referred to the several States. They can, each for itself, decide on the measure, and whether it is to be adopted at once and absolutelyor introduced gradually and with conditions. In my judgment the freedmen, if they show patience and manly virtues, will sooner obtain a participationin the elective franchise through the States than through the General Government, even if it had power to intervene. When the tumult of emotions that havebeen raised by the suddenness of the social change shall have subsided, it may prove that they will receive the kindest usage from some of thoseon whom they have heretofore most closely depended.