No——! When I need your advice on any public utterance, I'll let you know.
Lincoln
Will you preside over this Union Meeting?
McClellan
[Firmly.]
Never! I'll do my best to save my country, but in my own way without suggestion or assistance from you——
Lincoln
[With firm conviction.]
Then, sir, you are committed by your pledges to the possible division of this Union! I suspected it—but I had hoped for the best—good night!
[The General bows stiffly and leaves the President standing in sorrowful silence, his deep eyes staring into space, seeing nothing as Nicolay enters.]