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The Papers and Writings of Abraham Lincoln — Volume 1: 1832-1843 cover

The Papers and Writings of Abraham Lincoln — Volume 1: 1832-1843

Chapter 63: December 4, 1840
By Abraham Lincoln
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About This Book

A curated collection of a prominent statesman’s early public and private writings, assembling speeches, legislative remarks, legal papers, and personal letters from his formative career. The documents trace the emergence of political convictions and rhetorical manner, addressing questions of slavery, banking, temperance, and party strategy while exposing private friendships, anxieties, and practical counsel. Editors supply introductions and commentary to situate the material and assess its significance. Taken together, the selections illuminate the gradual shaping of a pragmatic leadership that pairs moral reflection with tactical compromise in confronting local and national challenges.

REMARKS IN THE ILLINOIS LEGISLATURE.

December 4, 1840

In the House of Representatives, Illinois, December 4, 1840, on presentation of a report respecting petition of H. N. Purple, claiming the seat of Mr. Phelps from Peoria, Mr. Lincoln moved that the House resolve itself into Committee of the Whole on the question, and take it up immediately. Mr. Lincoln considered the question of the highest importance whether an individual had a right to sit in this House or not. The course he should propose would be to take up the evidence and decide upon the facts seriatim.

Mr. Drummond wanted time; they could not decide in the heat of debate, etc.

Mr. Lincoln thought that the question had better be gone into now. In courts of law jurors were required to decide on evidence, without previous study or examination. They were required to know nothing of the subject until the evidence was laid before them for their immediate decision. He thought that the heat of party would be augmented by delay.

The Speaker called Mr. Lincoln to order as being irrelevant; no mention had been made of party heat.

Mr. Drummond said he had only spoken of debate. Mr. Lincoln asked what caused the heat, if it was not party? Mr. Lincoln concluded by urging that the question would be decided now better than hereafter, and he thought with less heat and excitement.

(Further debate, in which Lincoln participated.)