[Hesitates.]
I am sure of this election without your help, sir!
Lincoln
You can't be——
McClellan
A straw vote was taken yesterday in the Carver Hospital. The wounded soldiers gave me three votes to your one. Straws show which way the wind is blowing. I know that your party is divided—that John C. Fremont has split your organization, and is daily gaining ground—that unless he retires, you can't be elected! Your party is in a hopeless panic—and my election is conceded. Yet, you ask me allow you to dictate the policy of my administration!
Lincoln
[Evenly and pressingly.]
Will you denounce these conspirators within your party——?
McClellan