[Register prints Lincoln's letter of November 21, 1849 to Chicago "Journal." It comments editorially: "This letter . . . does not touch the principal point at issue . . . viz: that Messrs. Ewing and Butterfield are popular with their own party in this state. The reverse of this assumption is too notoriously true . . . [but] having been, and doubtless being, an applicant for the favors of the cabinet, he [Lincoln] could not prudently say less than he has."]

[Federal courts convene in Springfield. Illinois Journal.]

Lincoln goes shopping, buying 20¢ worth merchandise at Irwin's, $6 sundries at Bunn's. Irwin Ledger; Bunn Journal.

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.

Lincoln buys $1.50 in "sundries" at Bunn's. Irwin Ledger; Bunn Journal.

Lincoln buys $1.50 butter dish. Irwin Ledger; Bunn Journal.

Lincoln writes to George W. Rives of Edgar County: "Last summer . . . I was painfully constrained to withhold a recommendation which you desired, and shortly afterwards I learned . . . that you were indulging open abuse of me. . . . The question occurred whether you were attempting to use me, at the same time you would injure me. . . . I have remained in suspense. I now enclose you a letter which you may use if you think fit." Abraham Lincoln to George W. Rives, 15 December 1849, CW, 2:69.

Lincoln buys 50¢ worth sugar at Bunn's. Across square at Irwin's, he deposits $27.50 cash. Robert Irwin credits account $250 on note he gave Lincoln for legal fees. Bunn Journal; Irwin Journal and Ledger.

Lincoln pays $259.50 to Irwin's for accumulated charges, and store pays Lincoln $19.95 cash for "profit & loss." Irwin Journal.

In Supreme Court, Wright v. McNeeley, case involving parole agreement by plaintiff to redeem certain lands sold under judgment and bill praying injunction on collection of judgment, comes up from Logan County. Logan commences argument for plaintiff. Brown and Thomas follow for defendant. Record.

Lincoln concludes argument for plaintiff in Wright v. McNeeley. Court takes case under advisement, and later reverses decision of circuit court, which dismissed bill for want of equity. While refusing prayer for redemption, Supreme Court enters order satisfying judgment. Record; 11 Ill. 241.

Lincoln deposits $4.70 cash. Irwin Ledger.