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It is said that serious apprehensions are to some extent entertained (in which I do not share) that the peace of this District may be disturbed before the 4th of March next. In any event, it will be my duty to preserve it, and this duty shall be performed. In conclusion it may be permitted to me to remark that I have often warned my countrymen of the dangers which now surround us. This may be the last time I shall refer to the subject officially. I feel that my duty has been faithfully, though it may be imperfectly, performed, and, whatever the result may be, I shall carry to my grave the consciousness that I at least meant well for my country.

James Buchanan#6

PoliticsLeadershipDutyIntegrityPeace

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About this quote

What does it mean?
The author acknowledges fears of unrest before a specific date but asserts his duty to preserve peace regardless of outcomes. He reflects on his warnings to countrymen and concludes with a sense of personal integrity in service.
In plain terms
I will do my job to keep peace, even if things go wrong, and I know I tried my best for my country.
What can you take from it?
Duty and integrity matter more than the outcome of political service.

Where it applies

  • political crisis
  • public office
  • leadership transition

Putting it to work

  • uphold order during unrest
  • communicate warnings to public

Questions to consider

  • How do you define faithful service when outcomes are uncertain?
  • What weight does personal conscience carry in public duty?

Another view

The speaker claims to not share apprehensions while admitting they exist among others.

More from James Buchanan

  1. The course of events is so rapidly hastening forward that the emergency may soon arise when you may be called upon to decide the momentous question whether you…

    Permalink to quote #5

  2. Sir, if you are as happy in entering the White House as I shall feel on returning to Wheatland, you are a happy man indeed.

    Permalink to quote #7

  3. I am the last President of the United States!

    Permalink to quote #4

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