then, that Mr. E had declined in my favor, which rumor I judged came from
Mr. E himself, as I had not then breathed of his letter to any living
creature. In saying I had never, before the 2nd of June, determined to be
an applicant, unconditionally, I mean to admit that, before then, I had
said substantially I would take the office rather than it should be lost
to the State, or given to one in the State whom the Whigs did not want;
but I aver that in every instance in which I spoke of myself, I intended
to keep, and now believe I did keep, Mr. E above myself. Mr. Edwards'
first suspicion was that I had allowed Baker to overreach me, as his
friend, in behalf of Don Morrison. I knew this was a mistake; and the
result has proved it. I understand his view now is, that if I had gone to
open war with Baker I could have ridden him down, and had the thing all
my own way. I believe no such thing. With Baker and some strong man from
the Military tract & elsewhere for Morrison, and we and some strong man
from the Wabash & elsewhere for Mr. E, it was not possible for either to
succeed. I believed this in March, and I know it now. The only thing
which gave either any chance was the very thing Baker & I proposed,--an
adjustment with themselves.

You may wish to know how Butterfield finally beat me. I can not tell you
particulars now, but will when I see you. In the meantime let it be
understood I am not greatly dissatisfied,--I wish the offer had been so
bestowed as to encourage our friends in future contests, and I regret
exceedingly Mr. Edwards' feelings towards me. These two things away, I
should have no regrets,--at least I think I would not.

Write me soon.

Your friend, as ever,
A. LINCOLN.