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

It may be assumed as an axiom that Providence has never gifted any political party with all of political wisdom or blinded it with all of political folly.

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

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.

It turned out in the long run that Lincoln's credit and the popular confidence that supported it were as valuable both to his creditors and himself as if the sums which stood over his signature had been gold coin in a solvent bank.

While Lincoln thus became a lawyer, he did not cease to remain a politician.

Activity in politics also produces eager competition and sharp rivalry.