If they want eternal war, well and good; we accept the issue, and will dispossess them and put our friends in their place… Three years ago by a little reflection and patience they could have had a hundred years of peace and prosperity, but they preferred war; very well… Next year their lands will be taken, for in war we can take them, and rightfully, too, and in another year they may beg in vain for their lives. A people who will persevere in war beyond a certain limit ought to know the consequences. Many, many peoples with less pertinacity have been wiped out of national existence.
- Vicksburg, January 31, 1864 |
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