The opening of the year 1860 found Mr. Lincoln’s name freely mentioned
in connection with the Republican nomination for the Presidency. To be
classed with Seward, Chase, McLean, and other celebrities, was enough to
stimulate any Illinois lawyer’s pride; but in Mr. Lincoln’s case, if it
had any such effect, he was most artful in concealing it. Now and then,
some ardent friend, an editor, for example, would run his name up to the
masthead, but in all cases he discouraged the attempt.
“In regard to the matter you spoke of,” he answered one man who proposed
his name, “I beg you will not give it a further mention. Seriously, I do
not think I am fit for the Presidency.”