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XX.
On the way to the sculptor's studio a conversation occurred of much significance, in view of the terrible tragedy so soon to paralyze every loyal heart in the nation.
A late number of the New York Tribune had contained an account from a correspondent within the
Rebel lines, of an elaborate conspiracy, matured in
Richmond, to abduct, or assassinate — if the first was not found practicable — the person of the
President.
A secret organization, composed, it was stated, of five hundred or a thousand men, had solemnly sworn to accomplish the deed.
Mr. Lincoln had not seen or heard of this account, and at his request, I gave him the details.
Upon the conclusion, he smiled incredulously, and said: “Well, even if true, I do not see what the
Rebels would gain by killing or getting possession of me. I am but a single individual, and it would not help their cause or make the least difference in the progress of the war. Everything would go right on just the same.
Soon after I was nominated at
Chicago, I began to receive letters threatening my life.
The first one or two made me a little uncomfortable, but I came at length to look for a regular instalment of this kind of correspondence in every week's mail, and up to inauguration day I was in constant receipt of such letters.
It is no uncommon thing to receive them now; but they have ceased to give me any apprehension.”
