Yet often a limb must be amputated to save a life, but a life is never wisely given to save a limb. I felt that measures, otherwise unconstitutional, might become lawful by becoming indispensable to the preservation of the Constitution through the preservation of the nation. Right or wrong, I assumed this ground, and now avow it. I could not feel that to the best of my ability I had even tried to preserve the Constitution, if, to save slavery, or any minor matter, I should permit the wreck of government, country, and Constitution altogether.

When, early in the war, General Fremont attempted military emancipation, I forbade it, because I did not then think it an indispensable necessity. Use context to determine the meaning of the words in bold. I thought this was true, and now I know I was wrong.

I made this decision, and now I acknowledge it.

I created this situation for others, and now I regret it.

I said these words, and now I want to take them back.