LINCOLN, Abraham (1809-1865). Autograph note signed ("A. Lincoln") to B.B. French. [Washington, D.C.], 9 November 1864.

1 p. in pencil; 2 1/4 x 1 1/2 in. (57 x 38 mm); text and signature lightly faded; recto toned.

In full: "If Comr. of Public Buildings chooses to give laborers at White House, a holy-day, I have no objections A. Lincoln Nov. 9 1864."

LINCOLN GRANTS A HOLIDAY TO WHITE HOUSE STAFF ONE DAY AFTER HIS RE-ELECTION.

During the campaign of 1864, Lincoln was dubious of his prospects of winning another term. The Union Army under Ulysses S. Grant was beleaguered with bloody stalemates in the Eastern and Western theaters, and Lincoln faced intra-party opposition from many Radical Republicans, led by former Secretary of the Treasury Salmon P. Chase. Lincoln's anxiety was so great that he penned a famous "blind memorandum" signaling his belief in a Democratic victory: "This morning, as for some days past, it seems exceedingly probable that this Administration will not be re-elected. Then it will be my duty to so co-operate with the President elect, as to save the Union between the election and the inauguration; as he will have secured his election on such ground that he cannot possibly save it afterwards." (Basler 7, p. 514).

Despite his qualms Lincoln defeated his opponent, former General George B. McClellan, by a wide margin in the electoral college, winning 55% of the popular vote. On 10 November 1864, a large crowd of supporters, mostly African Americans, converged on the White House where President Lincoln addressed them, and was met with resounding cheers. Basler 8, p. 98.

Provenance:

Louise Taper, Beverly Hills, California

Property from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Foundation

This lot is located in Chicago.