To Lyman Trumbull
SPRINGFIELD, ILLS. Dec. 24, 1860
Hon. Lyman Trumbull—
My dear Sir. I expect to be able to offer Mr. Blair a place in the cabinet; but I can not, as yet, be committed on the matter, to any extent whatever.
Despatches have come here two days in succession, that the Forts in South Carolina will be surrendered by the order, or consent at least, of the President.
I can scarcely believe this; but if it prove true, I will, if our friends at Washington concur, announce publicly at once that they are to be retaken after the inauguration. This will give the Union Men a rallying cry, and preparation will proceed somewhat on their side, as well as on the other.
Yours as ever
A. LINCOLN.
