''Abe'' Lincoln's Yarns and Stories - University of Macau Library

Yarns and Stories, by Alexander K. McClure 176"Stanton, you have been a good friend and a faithful public servant, and itis not for you to say when you will no longer be needed here."Several friends of both parties were present on the occasion, and there wasnot a dry eye that witnessed the scene."JEFFY" THREW UP THE SPONGE.When the War was fairly on, many people were astonished to find that "OldAbe" was a fighter from "way back." No one was the victim of greateramazement than Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States ofAmerica. Davis found out that "Abe" was not only a hard hitter, but hadstaying qualities of a high order. It was a fight to a "finish" with "Abe," nocompromises being accepted. Over the title, "North and South," the issue of"Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper" of December 24th, 1864, containedthe cartoon, see reproduce on this page. Underneath the picture were thelines:"Now, Jeffy, when you think you have had enough of this, say so, and I'llleave off." (See President's message.) In his message to Congress,December 6th,President Lincoln said: "No attempt at negotiation with the insurgent leadercould result in any good. He would accept of nothing short of the severanceof the Union."Therefore, Father Abraham, getting "Jeffy's" head "in chancery," proceededto change the appearance and size of the secessionist's countenance, muchto the grief and discomfort of the Southerner. It was Lincoln's idea tore-establish the Union, and he carried out his purpose to the very letter. Buthe didn't "leave off" until "Jeffy" cried "enough."DIDN'T KNOW GRANT'S PREFERENCE.In October, 1864, President Lincoln, while he knew his re-election to theWhite House was in no sense doubtful, knew that if he lost New York and