Abraham Lincoln papers From Thurlow Weed to Abraham Lincoln, August 13, 1860 Albany, Aug 13, ‘60 Dear Sir, 1 Mr Sweet writes that he is much from home or I would not bother you with Letters. 1 This is probably a reference to Leonard Swett. 2 The aspects of the campaign are changing. The fusion in this state is to be between the Douglas 3 and Bell men. The result, however, will be the same, and I would be, I think, if all the factions were to unite against us. 2 The Democratic Party had split into two factions in 1860, with one faction in favor of Stephen A. Douglas's candidacy for the presidency and the other for Vice President John C. Breckinridge. 3 Senator John Bell of Tennessee was the presidential candidate of the Constitutional Union Party. I have been in communication with the leading Breckenridge men; and have just parted with Mr 4 Richmond. So I am pretty well informed as to their purposes and feelings. 4 Dean Richmond was chairman of the New York State Democratic Committee. 5 The Douglass leaders were told (four weeks ago) that Sewards friends would secretly work against the Republican Ticket. Some believed it, and on that they based their absurd confidence and imprudent boasting. 5 William H. Seward As things now look Bell is to be as strong, if not stronger, in the South, than Breckenridge. It would be strange to see the contest settle down between two old Whigs! Abraham Lincoln papers http://www.loc.gov/resource/mal.0351900 The fusion in Pennsylvania, as I am assured, will fail to effect its object. It is not cordial, and will satisfy the Douglass men. So far, all is safe there. 6 7 Gen. Cameron was with me yesterday. He was well pleased with the visit of Judge Davis, and will go to work earnestly. He is by far the strongest man and best worker in the State. 6 Simon Cameron 7 David Davis Rhode Island is in danger. Douglass has got hold of a class of men there who are rich, know how to use money, and control manufacturing establishments. I shall go and see whether the current can be 8 changed. 8 For Lincoln's reply to Weed, see Collected Works, IV, 97-98. Truly yours, T. Weed Abraham Lincoln papers http://www.loc.gov/resource/mal.0351900.