Houston.

This is coolbert:

This warning and admonition as ascribed correctly to Sam Houston originally I had thought as was issued by William T. Sherman.

Sam Houston without question one of the most significant persons in American history.

And serving as Governor of Texas at the time of secession [1861].

Houston NOT in favor of secession. But deposed and removed from office upon his refusal to take an oath of allegiance to the secessionist movement.

And most adamant in his warning and admonition to his fellow Southerners:

"Let me tell you what is coming. After the sacrifice of countless millions of treasure and hundreds of thousands of lives, you may win Southern independence if God be not against you, but I doubt it. I tell you that, while I believe with you in the doctrine of states rights, the North is determined to preserve this Union. They are not a fiery, impulsive people as you are, for they live in colder climates. But when they begin to move in a given direction, they move with the steady momentum and perseverance of a mighty avalanche; and what I fear is, they will overwhelm the South."

And before there was Lincoln there was Houston and before Sam there was the Apostle Matthew:

"A nation divided against itself cannot stand" - - Matthew 12:25

Persons of that era in elective office eloquent and well-spoken in a manner that the modern politician is not? Lincoln and Houston not requiring a teleprompter. .

coolbert.