"As a war measure, yes."
"And not otherwise?"
"It is none of my business to criticize my Commander-in-Chief."
"Well, I won't make it an order, but I wish McClellan was of your way of thinking." Again there was silence. Penhallow was astonished at this outspoken statement, being aware as few men were of the fact that the General in question had been disinclined to announce the emancipation message to the army until he found that his corps commanders were not cordially with him in opinion.
As they stopped at the gate of the railing around the White House, Lincoln said, "When you don't want anything, come and see me—or if you do." Then, becoming grave, he asked, "What effect will my proclamation of emancipation have in the South? It takes effect in January, you know." It was like Lincoln. He asked this question of all manner of people. "I want to know," he added, as Penhallow hesitated.
"I am not in a position, sir, to have any opinion about how the Rebels will be affected by it."
"Oh, Confederates! Colonel—not Rebels. Calling names only hurts, and don't ever help. Better to be amiable about labels."
"It was a slip of the tongue, Mr. President. I usually say Confederates."
"Quite right—tongue very slippery organ. Reckon my small truant holiday's over. Everybody generally is letting me know what effect that emancipation-thunder will have." A strangely tender smile grew upon the large features. "You see, Colonel, you and I are the only ignorant people in Washington. Good-bye."