This ruse by Lincoln
Washington [D. C], Feby. 25th, ’61.
My Dear Sir: I enclose you a slip from the Sun of this morning communicating facts you may not otherwise get as to the extraordinary movements of Mountebank Lincoln. Some incidents in Balto. the papers discreetly omit.
At the Calvert station there were not less than 10,000 people, and the moment the train arrived, supposing Lincoln was aboard, the most terriffic cheers ever heard were sent up, three for the Southern Confederacy, three for “gallant Jeff Davis” and three groans for “the Rail Splitter.” Had Lincoln been [there], contrary to my preconceived opinions, I now believe he would have met with trouble. The cause of the feeling was the impudent app[oin]tm[en]t the day before of 100 Black Republicans to escort him through the city. It was this fact which induced his friends wisely to anticipate trouble, and it would have occurred. The moment the crowd ascertained his family without him were on board they retired quietly in disgust.
This ruse by Lincoln has produced an active feeling amongst our people and hurried their action, and we thank him for it.
Ere long now we hope to see Va. and Md. move and join your noble confederacy.
From Annual Report of the American Historical Association for the Year 1911.