February 16, 1861
. . . . ``I can only say how do you do, and farewell, as my voice you perceive will warrant nothing more. I am happy to see so many pleasant faces around me and to be able to greet you as friends.''
As he bowed in conclusion, some one on behalf of the ladies, called for Mrs. Lincoln, to which the president replied that ``he should hardly hope to induce her to appear, as he had always found it very difficult to make her do what she did not want to.''