Papers Of Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln to John Bennett, 15 January 18491
Washington, Jan: 15 1849. Dear Bennett:
Your letter of the 2^nd was received last night.2 I do not know yet what places there may be to dispose of in California, nor what share I may be allowed in disposing of them when the time comes; but I shall especially remember you, and do something for you if I can–3
. . .4

1Abraham Lincoln wrote this letter in its entirety.

2John Bennett’s letter of January 2, 1849, has not been located.

3Bennett’s name does not appear in the official registers of the officers and agents of the government for 1849, 1851, and 1853, so apparently he did not receive an appointment. In a letter to Lincoln dated February 27, 1849, Bennett decided not to pursue an appointment in California because it was unsuitable for a family.
Register of all Officers and Agents, Civil, Military, and Naval, in the Service of the United States, on the Thirtieth September, 1849 (Washington, DC: Gideon, 1849); Register of all Officers and Agents, Civil, Military, and Naval, in the Service of the United States, on the Thirtieth September, 1851 (Washington, DC: Gideon, 1851); Register of Officers and Agents, Civil, Military, and Naval, in the Service of the United States, on the Thirtieth September, 1853 (Washington, DC: Robert Armstrong, 1853).

4The bottom of the page has been torn off this letter. Presumably, this included Lincoln’s signature, placing this letter in the category of letters where the signature has been clipped.