CHAPTER XIX.

Difficulties and peculiarities of Mr. Lincoln's position.--A general review of his character.--His personal appearance and habits.--His house and other property.--His domestic relations.--His morbid melancholy and superstition.--Illustrated by his literary tastes.--His humor.--His temperate habits and abstinence from sensual pleasures.--His ambition.--Use of politics for personal advancement.--Love of power and place.--Of justice.--Not a demagogue or a trimmer.--His religious views.--Attempt of the Rev. Mr. Smith to convert him.--Mr. Bateman's story as related by Dr. Holland.--Effect of his belief upon his mind and character...........466