Hmmm . . . you make a persuasive case, Doyle, along with your discussion of Southern Illinios politics that, Lincoln, from his political genesis, was no different than any other politician - a servant only to the advancement of his own self-interests and the creation of a career living on the public dole. Particularly so, in light of what is happening in Washington today, you leave me with not much more than the fading memory of "Mr. Smith" when it comes to thinking about the concept (that's all it is) of an "honest politician" whose purposes were nothing more or less than to serve the public interests.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with all of us. You have caused me to wonder what the real Lincoln, if there was one, would amount to - in the absence of all the political and matrimonial influences that now appear to have shaped his life, throughout his life.