Lincoln's stature and strength, his intelligence and ambition - in short, all the elements which gave him popularity among men in New Salem, rendered him equally attractive to the fair sex of that village.

Lincoln's removal from New Salem to Springfield and his entrance into a law partnership with Major John T. Stuart begin a distinctively new period in his career.

Very few men are fortunate enough to gain distinction during their first term in Congress.

It is therefore not to be wondered at that Lincolns single term in the House of Representatives at Washington added practically nothing to his reputation.

The meetings of the legislature at Springfield then first brought together that splendid group of young men of genius whose phenomenal careers and distinguished services have given Illinois fame in the history of the nation.

In the early West, law and politics were parallel roads to usefulness as well as distinction.

Activity in politics also produces eager competition and sharp rivalry.