In the U.S. Circuit Court, Lincoln & Herndon represent the Missouri-based S.C. Davis & Company in two suits involving unpaid promissory notes. In the case of S. C. Davis & Co. v. Sanders & Sanders, the plaintiffs seek $1,000 in damages for two promissory notes totaling $559.32. William J. Allen, attorney for defendants John D. Sanders and Henry Sanders, asks the Court for permission "to withdraw their Plea herein." Judge Samuel H. Treat notes that the defendants have had three opportunities to plea and have failed to do so. Judge Treat declares the defendants in default. The Clerk assesses damages of $666.70, and Judge Treat orders the defendants to pay this amount and the court costs. In the case of S. C. Davis & Co. v. J. W. & J. R. Allen, the plaintiffs are suing the defendants for $3,000 in damages for non-payment of a $2,565.98 promissory note. The parties agree to waive a jury trial, and they submit evidence to Judge Treat. Judge Treat finds for the plaintiffs and orders the defendants to pay $2,886.25 in damages and the court costs. Order, 28 January 1858, S.C. Davis & Co. v. Sanders & Sanders, Record Group 21, General Records, Vol. 1, 276; Judgment Docket, 28 January 1858, S.C. Davis & Co. v. Sanders & Sanders, Record Group 21, Judgment Docket, Vol. 1, fol. 22; Declaration, filed 9 December 1857, S.C. Davis & Co. v. J.W. & J.R. Allen, Record Group 21, case file 231; Order, 28 January 1858, S.C. Davis & Co. v. J.W. & J.R. Allen, Record Group 21, General Records, Vol. 1, 277, all in U.S. Circuit Court, Southern District of Illinois, National Archives and Records Administration, Great Lakes Region, Chicago, IL.