er in the
district, and found his rival, a Democratic candidate, there on the same
errand. The farmer was away from home, so each of the candidates did his
best to gain the good-will of the farmer's "better half," who was on her
way to milk the cow. The Democrat seized the pail and insisted on doing
the work for her. Lincoln did not make the slightest objection, but
improved the opportunity thus given to chat with their hostess. This he
did so successfully that when his rival had finished the unpleasant
task, the only acknowledgment he received was a profusion of thanks from
the woman for the opportunity he had given her of having "_such a
pleasant talk with Mr. Lincoln_!"

HOW THE LIGHTNING STRUCK FORQUER, IN SPITE OF HIS LIGHTNING-ROD

Abe distinguished himself in his first political speech at Springfield,
the county seat. A leading citizen there, George Forquer, was accused
of changing his political opinions to secure a certain government
position; he also had his fine residence protected by the first
lightning-rod ever seen in that part of the country.

The contest was close and exciting. There were seven Democratic and
seven Whig candidates for the lower branch of the Legislature. Forquer,
though not a candidate, asked to be heard in reply to young Lincoln,
whom he proceeded to attack in a sneering overbearing way, ridiculing
the young man's appearance, dress, manners and so on. Turning to Lincoln
who then stood within a few feet of him, Forquer announced his intention
in these words: "This young man must be taken down, and I am truly sorry
that the task devolves upon me."

The "Clary's Grove Boys," who attended the meeting in a body--or a
gang!--could hardly be restrained from arising in their might and
smiting the pompous Forquer, hip and thigh.

But their hero, with pale face and flashing eyes, smiled as he shook his
head at them, and calmly answered the insulting speech of his opponent.
Among other things he said:

"The gentleman commenced his speech by saying 'this young man,' alluding
to me, 'must be taken down.' I am not so young in years as I am in the
tricks and trades of a politician, but"--pointing at Forquer--"live long
or die young, I would rather die now than, like the gentleman, change my
politics, and with the change receive an office worth three thousand
dollars a year, and then feel obliged to erect a lightning-rod over my
house to protect a guilty conscience from an offended God!"

This