Lincoln answers Herndon's letter. "I will stake my life, that if you had been in my place, you would have voted just as I did. . . . You are compelled to speak; and your only alternative is to tell the truth or a lie." While Whigs condemn President for beginning war, they consistently vote supplies. Even Whigs who have participated in war "do not hesitate to denounce, as unjust, the Presidents conduct in the beginning of the war."Abraham Lincoln to William H. Herndon, 1 February 1848, CW, 1:446-48.

Representative Lincoln writes to William H. Herndon, his law partner in Springfield, Illinois, soon after listening to Congressman Alexander H. Stephens, of Georgia, deliver a speech in the U.S. House. Lincoln calls it "the very best speech, of an hour's length, I ever heard." He adds, "My old, withered, dry eyes, are full of tears yet." Stephens opposed further funding for the war with Mexico, and he claimed that President James K. Polk's "lawless abuse of power" led to America's involvement in the conflict. Abraham Lincoln to William H. Herndon, 2 February 1848, CW, 1:448.

Lincoln's bank account, at his order, is debited $14.52 for taxes.Irwin Ledger.

[Treaty of peace is signed at Guadalupe Hidalgo.]

Lincoln votes against resolution directing Committee on Ways and Means to inquire into advisability of raising $5,000,000 annually, until public debt is paid, by taxes on personal property, stocks, and money at interest. It is defeated 44-143. He votes in favor of two resolutions referring sections of President's message to committees.Globe.

Lincoln's tenant, Cornelius Ludlum, pays $22.50 cash into Lincoln's account for three months rent.Irwin Ledger.

Congressman Lincoln writes to Andrew McCallen, of Shawneetown Illinois, in response to McCallen's recent inquiry. Apparently, McCallen seeks to involve his "Regiment" in the war with Mexico. Lincoln advises McCallen that the United States may not need more troops because "[t]here is now some probablility of peace." Lincoln writes, "but, should the war go on, I think volunteers, with the right of electing their own officers will be voted, but that no more regulars, will be voted. Until Congress shall act, of course, nothing can be done towards getting your Regiment into the service. Whenever it shall act I shall be happy to assist you in any way I can." In a postscript, Lincoln adds, "Dont pay postage on letters to me. I am entitled to them free."Abraham Lincoln to Andrew McCallen, 4 February 1848, CW, 1:448-49.

Lincoln presents memorial of citizens of Tazewell County praying reduction of postage.Journal.

He votes aye as House passes resolutions of thanks to Taylor and Scott. Wilmot of Pennsylvania, who introduced tax resolution, denies proposal is primarily scheme to tax slaves. He blames Buchanan for charge, whereupon Brown and Thompson defend Buchanan in acrimonious debate.Globe.