The death of Mrs. Lincoln was a serious loss to her husband and children. Abraham's sister Sarah was only eleven years old, and the tasks and cares of the little household were altogether too heavy for her years and experience.

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

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.

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

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.

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.