February 23rd, 2012
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/23/2012
Newspaper, National Intelligencer, Washington, August 16, 1862, 4pp. filled with war and congressional reports. From the front page “The Pursuit of Truth Under Difficulties,” full column. On September 15, 1862, Mr. Lincoln was visited by an interdenominational group of Chicago Christians who pressed him for immediate emancipation. Although it was only a week before Mr. Lincoln issued the draft Emancipation Proclamation, he lectured his visitors on the limits of his power to end slavery: In this report, Lincoln’s Reply is largely printed. In part, “``The subject presented in the memorial is one upon which I have thought much for weeks past, and I may even say for months. I am approached with the most opposite opinions and advice, and that by religious men, who are equally certain that they represent the Divine will. I am sure that either the one or the other class is mistaken in that belief, and perhaps in some respects both. I hope it will not be irreverent for me to say that if it is probable that God would reveal his will to others, on a point so connected with my duty, it might be supposed he would reveal it directly to me; for, unless I am more deceived in myself than I often am, it is my earnest desire to know the will of Providence in this matter. And if I can learn what it is I will do it! These are not, however, the days of miracles, and I suppose it will be granted that I am not to expect a direct revelation. I must study the plain physical facts of the case, ascertain what is possible and learn what appears to be wise and right. The subject is difficult, and good men do not agree. ...”
Click on a thumbnail above to display a larger image below
Hold down the mouse button and slide side to side to see more thumbnails(if available).
Click above for larger image.