A great opportunity was now given to the South.

It was given especially to the leading men of the South.

Only a few weeks before, they had all been expecting harsh treatment, many, indeed, anticipated punishment, not a few were dejectedly looking forward to a life of exile and want.

The President's policy, which had been framed for him by Mr.Seward, charged all this.

Confidence took the place of apprehension, the fear of punishment was removed, those who conscious of guilt had been dreading expatriation were bidden by the supreme authority of the Nation to stay in their own homes, and to assist in building up the waste and desolate places.
Never in the history of the world had so mighty a rebellion been subdued.