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.

Activity in politics also produces eager competition and sharp rivalry.

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

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.

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.