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18. John Rowbotham to William H. Herndon.

Cincinnatti. June 9/65—

Dear Sir:

Thanks for your letter, which came to hand this morning.

I quite understand your position, in respect to the contemplated work — and wish you every success.

Should you visit those scenes connected with Mr. Lincoln's early career in Indiana and Kentucky, I can give you some useful information, having been over the entire ground on a sketching tour.

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I may tell you that the work I am connected with (not as author) will not be published in this country — but will be issued in London, Paris and probably Leipsic, simultaneously, so that there is no fear of our clashing.

The information I ventured to ask you for, was just an outline of Mr. Lincoln's career in Springfield with the dates. Should you find leisure to write me a line during your researches, I shall be glad to reciprocate the favor.

I will anticipate with pleasure the appearance of your book feeling sure from the many advantages you posess it will be reliable and instructed; and I quite endorse your opinion that the life of Lincoln has yet to be written.

Hoping your efforts will be rewarded as they deserve.

Believe me to remain,

Yours Truly
John Rowbotham.

Huntington Library: LN2408, 1:69 — 70

nts

Notes.

1. Rowbotham had been commissioned to produce sketches for Joseph Barrett's biography. See Barrett.