The Martyr President thus spoke of Washington in the course of an address:
“Washington is the mightiest name on earth—long since the mightiest in the cause of civil liberty, still mightiest in moral reformation.
“On that name a eulogy is expected. It cannot be.
“To add brightness to the sun or glory to the name of Washington is alike impossible.
“Let none attempt it.
“In solemn awe pronounce the name, and, in its naked, deathless splendor, leave it shining on.”
STIRRED EVEN THE REPORTERS.
Lincoln’s influence upon his audiences was wonderful. He could sway people at will, and nothing better illustrates his extraordinary power than he manner in which he stirred up the newspaper reporters by his Bloomingon speech.
Joseph Medill, editor of the Chicago Tribune, told the story: