CHAPTER XV.

The struggle in Kansas.--The South begins the struggle.--The North meets it.--The Missourians and other proslavery forces.--Andrew H. Reeder appointed governor.--Election frauds.--Mr. Lincoln's views on Kansas.--Gov. Shannon arrives in the Territory.--The Free State men repudiate the Legislature.--Mr. Lincoln's "little speech" to the Abolitionists of Illinois.--Mr. Lincoln's party relations.--Mr. Lincoln agrees to meet the Abolitionists.--Convention at Bloomington.--Mr. Lincoln considered a convert.--His great speech.--Conservative resolutions.--Ludicrous failure of a ratification meeting at Springfield.--Mr. Lincoln's remarks.--Plot to break up the Know-Nothing party.--"National" Republican Convention.--Mr. Lincoln receives a hundred and ten votes for Vice-President.--National Democratic Convention.--Mr. Lincoln a candidate for elector.--His canvass.--Confidential letter.--Imperfect fellowship with the Abolitionists.--Mr. Douglas's speech on Kansas in June, 1857.--Mr. Lincoln's reply.--Mr. Douglas committed to support of the Lecompton Constitution.--The Dred Scott Decision discussed.--Mr. Lincoln against negro equality.--Affairs in Kansas.--Election of a new Legislature.--Submission of the Lecompton Constitution to the people.--Method of voting on it.--Constitution finally rejected.--Conflict in Congress.--Mr. Douglas's defection.--Extract from a speech by Mr. Lincoln........366