Page 387
To Robert S. Boal1Jump to section
Dear Sir: Decr. 25. 1856
Yours of the 22nd. is just received.
I suppose the ``Chenery House'' is likely to be the Republican Head Quarters. I find the best that can be done there is to give you the room you had two years ago, or one like it, at $21 per week, with fire and light, for the two persons. I do not believe you can do better, at any of the Hotels. If you conclude to take it, Mr. Chenery wishes you to write him immediately.
When I was at Chicago two weeks ago I saw Mr. Arnold;2Jump to section and from a remark of his, I inferred he was thinking of the Speakership, though I think he was not anxious about it. He seemed most anxious for harmony generally, and particularly that the contested seats from Peoria and McDonough might be rightly determined.
Since I came home I had a talk with Cullom,3Jump to section one of our American representatives here; and he says he is for you for Speaker, and also that he thinks, all the Americans will be for you, unless it be Gorin4Jump to section of Macon, of whom he can not speak.
If you would like to be Speaker go right up and see Arnold. He is talented, a practiced debater; and, I think, would do himself more credit on the floor, than in the Speaker's seat. Go and see him; and if you think fit, show him this letter. Your friend as ever
A. LINCOLN---