I did want a chance to stay here for another term to see the sun shine again, to heal my country's wounds, and show all the people, North, South, East and West, that I love them. But I can't risk the chances of this election--if you and I can come to a perfect understanding, and you agree to take my place upon the solemn pledge to save the Union without division. I've made up my mind to this, because I have on my desk here a report from our Secret Service---- [_Pauses and picks up the report._] showing that the Copperhead Societies are of your party and are thoroughly organized in every state of the North--that they demand an immediate peace and will accept a division of the Union---- McCLELLAN [_Interrupting._] What has this to do with me, may I ask----? LINCOLN [_Evenly._] This report shows that they propose to end the war on the night of the election by a revolutionary uprising which will result in the recognition of the Confederacy. I am now being urged to arrest their leaders. [_He pauses and watches_ McCLELLAN _closely._] I shall answer no. Let sleeping dogs lie. One revolution at a time. If the Union candidate wins the election, they won't dare to rise. If he loses, it's all over anyhow--and it makes no difference what they do. McCLELLAN A sensible decision---- LINCOLN I'm glad you agree with it. Now the Democratic Convention meets in Chicago next week--you have no opposition. Your nomination will be unanimous. The question is,--what will they do on the issue of the war? The leaders of the Copperhead Societies are now in touch with the rebel government in Richmond---- McCLELLAN That's a large statement, sir--even about Copperhead Societies---- LINCOLN I have the _proofs_ in this document---- [_Touches_ BAKER'S _report._] My fear is, that they may get complete control of your Convention---- McCLELLAN [_Angrily._] Indeed----? LINCOLN I have heard the ugly rumor that they are counting on you---- McCLELLAN [_Advancing._] Stop----! LINCOLN [_Going to meet_ McCLELLAN _and holding his gaze firmly._] Well----? McCLELLAN No man can couple the word Treason with my name, sir----! LINCOLN Have I done so----? McCLELLAN You are insinuating it! LINCOLN _Am_ I? McCLELLAN I demand a retraction! LINCOLN [_Smiling._]