Abraham Lincoln to John Murray, 27 January 18491
Washington, Jan: 27– 1849–My dear Sir:Your letter, in relation to the office of Marshall, was received last night–2 You are not mistaken, in so far as you may suppose, I entertain the strongest personal
friendship for you; but I have more than one application for the same office, before
yours, appealing to my feelings in the same way– I know not what control of this
matter may fall into my hands; and I can only say now that I will lay your letter
by, and, when the time comes, give your claim, among others, that consideration, which
is due to impartiality, fairness, and friendship–3
Yours as everA. Lincoln–3Lincoln did receive a number of letters endorsing various candidates for the U.S.
marshalship of Illinois. Most favored Benjamin Bond, who received the appointment and held the job until 1853.
Usher F. Linder to Abraham Lincoln; George T. M. Davis to Abraham Lincoln; E. O. Smith to Abraham Lincoln; W. W. Roman to Abraham Lincoln; Richard B. Servant to Abraham Lincoln; Gilbert Turnbull and Abner C. Harding to Abraham Lincoln; Ninian W. Edwards to Abraham Lincoln; Alfred H. Grass to Abraham Lincoln; James W. Singleton to Abraham Lincoln; 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), 247; 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), 267; 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), 259.
Copy of Autograph Letter Signed, 1 page(s), Abraham Lincoln Association Files, Lincoln Collection, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (Springfield, IL).