It is difficult for the present generation to perceive the streak of
fun in "the Petroleum V. Nasby Papers" which regaled our grandfathers,
and Mr. Lincoln above others, who waited eagerly for the next letter in
the press. He requested the presentation of the author, John Locke, and
thanked him face to face--neither, like the augurs, able to keep his
_face_--for such antidotes to the blues. He said to a friend of "the
Postmaster at Confedrit X-rodes":
"If 'Petroleum' would impart his talent to me, I would swap places with
him!"
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