'Do you require why, holding these views and possessing some will of my own, I accept so imperfect a proposition? I answer, because I live among men and not among angels; among men as intelligent, as determined, and as independent as myself, who, not agreeing with me do not choose to yield, their opinion to mine. Mutual concession, therefore, is our only resort, or mutual hostilities.'

Rep. Thaddeus Stevens (R) Pennsylvania 1866