Lincoln writes R. W. Thompson of Terre Haute, who apparently has asked for permission to make use of Lincoln's record: "If my record would hurt any, there is no hope that it will be over-looked; so that if friends can help any with it, they may as well do so. Of course, due caution and circumspection, will be used." Abraham Lincoln to Richard W. Thompson, 10 July 1860, CW, 4:82-83.