Lincoln writes a letter of recommendation to U. S. Secretary of State John M. Clayton on behalf of Dr. Edward A. Guilbert of Ottawa, Illinois. Guilbert seeks an "appointment in connection with a foreign mission." Although he is not personally acquainted with Guilbert, Lincoln is "well acquainted " with two other references for Guilbert—Illinois Supreme Court Justice John D. Caton and Circuit Court Judge Theophilus Lyle Dickey. Lincoln describes Caton as a man "of the Democratic faith...and every way a worthy gentleman." Of Dickey, Lincoln writes that he "is a good and true Whig...and a most reliable man." Based on Caton's and Dickey's recommendations, Lincoln is "entirely willing to endorse their statements. I doubt not, Dr. Guilbert is worthy of all they say in his behalf." Abraham Lincoln to John M. Clayton, 7 December 1849; John D. Caton to Abraham Lincoln, 29 November 1849; Theophilus Lyle Dickey to Abraham Lincoln, 30 November 1849, all in General Records of the Department of State, 1789-1949, Appointment Records, Applications and Recommendations for Office, Applications and Recommendations for Public Office, 1797-1901, Record Group 59, National Archives and Records Administration, College Park, MD.