In Lincoln's letters, he justifies and defends his executive orders by arguing that he is protecting the union from secession and rebellion.  In his annual message to Congress, Lincoln stresses the importance of saving the country because the world is watching us.  He talks about the future and the United States' role as an international model.  This reminds me of the Puritan idea of being a city upon a hill.  If the U.S. cannot save itself, then where is the hope for democracy and freedom?  If we fail, we let down the world.  He says, "in giving freedom to the slave, we assure freedom to the free." He talks about honor versus dishonor and the way the issue of slavery will either tear apart or save the union.  He notes that the fate of the union will affect future generations, of both races.  Even though emancipation may take time and current slaves may not reap its benefits, their offspring will be able to be free.  Lincoln's speech about this exemplifies that slavery in practice in America was not just an economic issue but also went hand in hand with morality in early America.  The moral aspect of slavery was also tearing the states apart and its fate would not just affect America internally, but the entire world.