“Tear It Up!”-A Lincoln Story

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 10, 1914

“Tear It Up!”—A Lincoln Story

THERE is enough wisdom in this little story to occupy us for a week. Indeed, most of us would do well to remember its lesson all our lives.

Secretary Stanton was once greatly vexed because an army officer had refused to understand an order, or at all events had not obeyed it.

“I believe I’ll sit down,” said Stanton, “and give that man a piece of my mind.”

“Do so,” said Lincoln; “write it now, while you have it on your mind. Make it sharp; cut him all up.”

Stanton did not need a second invitation. It was a crushing letter, and he read it to the President.

“That’s right,” said Lincoln; “that’s a good one.”

“Whom can I send it by?” mused the Secretary.

“Send it!” replied Lincoln. “Send it! Why, don’t send it at all. Tear it up. You have freed your mind on the subject, and that is all that is necessary. Tear it up. You never want to send such letters; I never do.”—Southern Cross.