Lincoln’s Legacy: Historic Americana from the Life of Abraham Lincoln

8vo. Unopened; split at pp.1-2 and 7-8; dampstaining at top of all leaves; extremities soiled; small ink stain on first page; in chemise.

FIRST EDITION of Douglas' analysis of Lincoln's first inaugural address in which Lincoln sought to reassure the Southern states that he had no intention of interfering with slavery where it already existed, stating, "I have no purpose, directly or indirectly, to interfere with the institution of slavery in the States where it exists" but will do "everything in his power to give a faithful execution to the Constitution and the laws for the return of fugitive slaves." Lincoln also appealed for peace and reconciliation, famously declaring, "We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies." However, he also made it clear that he would not allow the Union to be dissolved, asserting that "the Government will not assail you. You can have no conflict without being yourselves the aggressors". 

In a speech given on 25 April 1861 before the Illinois Legislature, Douglas assured Lincoln that "he was prepared to sustain the President in the exercise of all his constitutional functions to preserve the Union, and maintain the government, and defend the Federal Captial."

RARE: No known copies have appeared at auction. Monaghan 96.

Provenance:

Louise Taper, Beverly Hills, California