Autograph letter, signed, Springfield, Illinois, to John M. Clayton, Secretary of State. Letter relating to the only Federal position Lincoln ever applied for, and the substitution of his appointment as Secretary of Oregon, which Lincoln declined. "Your letter of the 17th inst. saying you had received no answer to yours informing me of my appointment as Secretary of Oregon, is received and surprises me very much. I received that letter, accompanied by the commission in due course of mail, and answered it two days after declining the office."
The Gates W. McGarrah Collection of Presidential Autographs is open for research. Researchers are encouraged to contact Special Collections staff prior to a visit.; In consultation with Special Collections staff, reproductions may be made upon request. Material in this collection is in the public domain.
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