Hi Stan,

It is an interesting passage, though it must be placed into the larger context of the speech. Lincoln recognizes that a section of the country is dissatisfied with the course of things, so he reviews their options. They can work within the political system and exercise their constitutional right to amend the constitution. Clearly, Lincoln believes this is the best course of action.

However, Lincoln recognizes that they may take another route. They can wage revolution against their government. I agree with your latter interpretation of this passage. Lincoln is indeed telling them the government will oppose them if they choose this course of action. Lincoln clarifies what awaits them if they go down that road:

"In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow countrymen, and not in mine, is the momentous issue of civil war. The government will not assail you. You can have no conflict, without being yourselves the aggressors. You have no oath registered in Heaven to destroy the government, while I shall have the most solemn one to ``preserve, protect and defend'' it."

Best,
Sam.