As President Lincoln, arm in arm with ex-President Buchanan, entered the
Capitol, and passed into the Senate Chamber, filled to overflowing with
Senators, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and visitors, the contrast
between the two men struck every observer.
“Mr. Buchanan was so withered and bowed with age,” wrote George W.
Julian, of Indiana, who was among the spectators, “that in contrast with
the towering form of Mr. Lincoln he seemed little more than half a man.”