Lincoln answers Herndon's letter. "I will stake my life, that if you had been in my place, you would have voted just as I did. . . . You are compelled to speak; and your only alternative is to tell the truth or a lie." While Whigs condemn President for beginning war, they consistently vote supplies. Even Whigs who have participated in war "do not hesitate to denounce, as unjust, the Presidents conduct in the beginning of the war."Abraham Lincoln to William H. Herndon, 1 February 1848, CW, 1:446-48.

Representative Lincoln writes to William H. Herndon, his law partner in Springfield, Illinois, soon after listening to Congressman Alexander H. Stephens, of Georgia, deliver a speech in the U.S. House. Lincoln calls it "the very best speech, of an hour's length, I ever heard." He adds, "My old, withered, dry eyes, are full of tears yet." Stephens opposed further funding for the war with Mexico, and he claimed that President James K. Polk's "lawless abuse of power" led to America's involvement in the conflict. Abraham Lincoln to William H. Herndon, 2 February 1848, CW, 1:448.

Lincoln's bank account, at his order, is debited $14.52 for taxes.Irwin Ledger.

[Treaty of peace is signed at Guadalupe Hidalgo.]

Lincoln votes against resolution directing Committee on Ways and Means to inquire into advisability of raising $5,000,000 annually, until public debt is paid, by taxes on personal property, stocks, and money at interest. It is defeated 44-143. He votes in favor of two resolutions referring sections of President's message to committees.Globe.

Lincoln's tenant, Cornelius Ludlum, pays $22.50 cash into Lincoln's account for three months rent.Irwin Ledger.

Lincoln presents memorial of citizens of Tazewell County praying reduction of postage.Journal.

He votes aye as House passes resolutions of thanks to Taylor and Scott. Wilmot of Pennsylvania, who introduced tax resolution, denies proposal is primarily scheme to tax slaves. He blames Buchanan for charge, whereupon Brown and Thompson defend Buchanan in acrimonious debate.Globe.

D. W. Tompkins, representative from Mississippi, who also boards at Mrs. Sprigg's, shows Lincoln letter from Josephus Hewett of Natchez, whom Lincoln had known ten years ago in Illinois. Lincoln writes to Hewett. "For old acquaintance sake, if for nothing else, be sure to write to me on receiving this."Abraham Lincoln to Josephus Hewett, 13 February 1848, CW, 1:450-51.