A. MUDGE (ADAPTED)
A visitor in Washington once had an appointment
to see Mr. Lincoln at five o'clock in the
morning. The gentleman made a hasty toilet
and presented himself at a quarter of five in the
waiting-room of the President. He asked the
usher if he could see Mr. Lincoln.
``No,'' he replied.
``But I have an engagement to meet him this
morning,'' answered the visitor.
``At what hour?'' asked the usher.
``At five o'clock.''
``Well, sir, he will see you at five.''
The visitor waited patiently, walking to and
fro for a few minutes, when he heard a voice as
if in grave conversation.
``Who is talking in the next room?'' he asked.
``It is the President, sir,'' said the usher, who
then explained that it was Mr. Lincoln's custom
to spend every morning from four to five reading
the Scriptures, and praying.
HIS SPRINGFIELD FAREWELL
ADDRESS
It was on the morning of February 11, 1861, that
the President-elect, together with his family and
a small party of friends, bade adieu to the city
of Springfield, which, alas! he was never to see
again.
A large throng of Springfield citizens assembled
at the railway station to see the departure, and
before the train left Mr. Lincoln addressed them
in the following words:--
``MY FRIENDS: No one, not in my position, can
appreciate the sadness I feel at this parting.
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