Seward respected Stanton's ability to lie honestly and openly, viewing it as a trait characteristic of excellent lawyers. This skill was indicative of a profound level of professionalism and artistry in legal practice, similar to what he himself aspired to. Seward admired how Stanton could manipulate the truth while maintaining a facade of integrity, demonstrating a unique mastery of his craft.

This appreciation highlights the complexities of legal ethics and the blurred lines between truth and deception in the pursuit of justice. For Seward, Stanton's adeptness at navigating these moral ambiguities was a mark of greatness, signifying a shared understanding among top lawyers of the art of persuasion and the necessity of such skills in their profession.