Lincoln is convinced that Gulf states will secede, and is watching border states "with daily increasing interest." N.Y. Herald, 3 January 1861.

Lincoln and Nicolay move out of governor's office at state house. Lincoln plans to spend most of his time at home, and Nicolay takes room in Johnson's Building, across from Chenery House. Lincoln expects to come in occasionally. ISLA—Nicolay Memo.

Lincoln replies to William Cullen Bryant, who warned him about compromises of "well-known politician." Lincoln says he did not press any compromise. "As to the matter of the cabinet, . . . I shall have a great deal of trouble, do the best I can." He writes Seward his reaction to four names Seward proposed for cabinet. Lincoln also answers letter from James Watson Webb, New York editor Forts must be held or retaken. Abraham Lincoln to William C. Bryant, 29 December 1860, CW, 4:163-64; Abraham Lincoln to William H. Seward, 29 December 1860, CW, 4:164; Abraham Lincoln to James W. Webb, 29 December 1860, CW, 4:164-65.