menu


Abraham Lincoln to Andrew McCallen, 4 February 18481
Washington, Jany Feb. 4 1848Friend McCallen:
Yours of the 20th Jany[January] is received–2 There is now some probability of peace; 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–3
Yours trulyA. LincolnP.S. Dont pay postage on letters to me– I am entitled to them free.A. L.
1Abraham Lincoln wrote and signed this letter, including the postscript.
2Andrew McCallen’s letter of January 20, 1848, has not been located.
3McCallen’s regiment did not enter active service, as the Senate would ratify the treaty ending the Mexican War in mid-March. For the terms of the treaty and ratification process, see: Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo.

Autograph Letter Signed, 1 page(s), Box 3, Lincoln Collection, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (Springfield, IL).