Read these sentences from the speech. the progress of our arms, upon which all else chiefly depends, is as well known to the public as to myself, and it is, i trust, reasonably satisfactory and encouraging to all. with high hope for the future, no prediction in regard to it is ventured. what is lincoln’s intended meaning in these sentences? as president, lincoln wants to reassure americans, so he hints at the potential for a speedy outcome of the civil war to appease both sides. lincoln hopes to unify the divided nation by appearing confident in peace for americans and conveying “high hope for the future.” as president, lincoln serves all americans, so he avoids speculating on the outcome of the civil war in an effort to convey his neutrality to both sides. lincoln hopes to unify the divided nation by suggesting that americans are aware of how the war is progressing and are “encouraged” and “satisfied.”