Note 1 — PUBLISHER'S PREFACE.
Reading edition
When the compiler of the Annals of Congress asked Mr. Lincoln to furnish him with data from which to compile a sketch of his life, the following brief, characteristic statement was given. It contrasts very strikingly with the voluminous biographies furnished by some small great men who have been in Congress:—
"Born, February 12th, 1809, in Hardin County, Kentucky.
"Education defective.
"Profession, a Lawyer.
"Have been a Captain of Volunteers in Black Hawk War.
"Postmaster at a very small office.
"Four times a member of the Illinois Legislature, and was a member of the Lower House of Congress.
"Yours, &c., "A. Lincoln."