In an unusual move, Taney appeared in public before a large crowd to dramatize the issue, announcing that he himself might be arrested before nightfall. Some thought this was paranoia or melodrama on Taney's part. But he may have caught wind of Lincoln's plan to have him arrested. Lincoln had in fact authorized Ward Hill Lamon, marshal for the District of Columbia, to arrest Taney. The order was never served.
Nobody knows why.
But it wouldn't have looked good. Taney was 83 years old, very courageous, and ready to fight for principle. Lincoln's celebrants rarely mention this illuminating episode. But it tells us a great deal about our most revered president that he would even contemplate such a blow at the independence of the judicial branch. There were many more to come.