Lincoln, the unknown

LINCOLNTHE UNKNOWN• 19broad-minded, unknown Virginian. The revelation— painfulas it was—called up the recollection of his mother, and,as the buggy jolted over the road, he added ruefully, "Godbless my mother; all that I am or ever hope to be I oweto her," and immediately lapsed into silence. Our interchangeof ideas ceased, and we rode on for some timewithout exchanging a word. He was sad and absorbed.Burying himself in thought, and musing no doubt over thedisclosure he had just made, he drew round him a barrierwhich I feared to penetrate. His words and melancholytone made a deep impression on me. It was an experienceI can never forget.