all at home fighting
for the victory that must be ours on the first Tuesday in November. Not
that you're unwelcome. You are the leaders of public opinion. The
people rule this country, and I am their servant--what is it----?

RAYMOND

You may be sure, Mr. President, that our mission is of the gravest
importance. These gentlemen have brought such startling reports from
their several states as to the bitterness and closeness of the fight,
that they have reached a unanimous conclusion----

LINCOLN

And that is----?

RAYMOND

That with your personality and record against General McClellan's, your
Democratic opponent--the election for us is lost.

LINCOLN

Your statement is blunt. But, as I have been renominated for a second
term, my administration has been endorsed by our party, and the
election is only eight weeks off--there is but one conclusion
possible--and that is, that you should roll up your sleeves and get to
work.

RAYMOND

The National Committee, Mr. President, has reached a different
conclusion----

LINCOLN

Yes----?

RAYMOND

In view of your unpopularity, in view of the criticism of your
policies, and your conduct of the war--they have decided to ask you to
withdraw from the ticket and permit them to name a new candidate----

LINCOLN

[_Springing to his feet._]

What----!

RAYMOND

I _have_ stated it bluntly----

LINCOLN

And this is your unanimous verdict, gentlemen----?

ALL

Yes.

LINCOLN

[_Paces the floor a moment and then faces the Committee._]

It surpasses human belief! Future generations will hold it
incredible--that you, my party leaders, should heap this insult upon
the man who led you to your first and only victory. That you should
come here to-day to ask me to quit under fire, to sacrifice without a
blow all I hold worth fighting for on this earth----!

RAYMOND

The Committee made their request solely on the ground of patriotic
duty--and ask you for the sacrifice upon the same grounds. They have
found it impossible to defend your policies----

LINCOLN