Lincoln writes John McLean, justice of U.S. Supreme Court, that he understands displacement of present clerk of U.S. Circuit Court is contemplated. He hopes not, for he is very friendly with incumbent. However, if present clerk should be removed, he recommends William Butler. William J. Black, also applicant, "is every way worthy of the office." He writes John T. Stuart's bond as receiver of Mechanics and Farmer's Bank, Springfield, and signs with five others. Abraham Lincoln to John McLean, 6 December 1854, CW, 2:291; Bond for John T. Stuart, 6 December 1854, CW, 2:291-92.