This question is incomplete because the options are missing, here is the question and options:
Which sentence in this excerpt from Abraham Lincoln's second inaugural address conveys that he wanted the US Civil War to end as soon as possible?
A. Neither party expected for the war the magnitude or the duration which it has already attained
B. Each looked for an easier triumph, and a result less fundamental and astounding
C. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces, but let us judge not, that we be not judged.
D. The Almighty has His own purposes. "Woe unto the world because of offenses; for it must needs be that offenses come, but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh."
E. Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away.
The correct answer to this question is E.) Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away.
Explanation:
The excerpt from Lincoln's speech refers to the Civil War, which was a conflict between the Southern and Northern States in the U.S. About this, Lincoln mentions the war and conflict are longer and harsher than expected. Also, Lincoln refers to religion, mentioning both sides believe in the same God and still are attacking each other and it might be God the one in deciding whether the conflict stops.
Besides this, the attitude of Lincoln about this war is a desire for the war to end, this can be seen in the detail "Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away" because Lincoln explicitly states he strongly wishes the war passes or ends in a short time. Thus, sentence E is the one that shows Lincoln's wish for the end of the war.
