Raftsman's journal. [volume] (Clearfield, Pa.) 1854-1948, 1861-03-06
HIS FIRST RECEPTION IN WASHINGTON

| The greatest curiosity was maifested to W.T.
ness Mr.. Lincoln's first reception in Washing
| ton. At O'Clock DIR. Puleston, Sec'y of the
| Peace Congress, presented communication
announcing that the members of the Congress
were anxious to pay their respects to Mr.. Lin
coin, and requesting the latter to name the
| time when he would receive them. He re-
| piled that he would be happy to receive them
at 9 o'clock.
At O'Clock Mr.. Lincoln left bis hotel, and
proceeded in a carriage to the residence OF
Mr.. Seward, with whom he dined. AT s 90
he returned to his hotel, and was received by
an enthusiastic crowd, who greeted him as
though he was their father and life. Some
were old men, and some old and some young
ladies. They reflected the general feeling,
that in Mr.. Lincoln rests the future hope OF
the Government and the Union. Mr.. Lincoln
passed through the long parlor hall thronged
with the elite and fashion of the national me-
tropolis shaking hands as fast as he could on
his right and left with ladies and gentlemen,
so intensely interested that he forgot even to
take his hat off, which was excused by look
er on, who remarked that it was new and out
shIned the crowd.
At 9 O'Clock, according to previous arrange
ment, Mr.. Lincoln received the Peace Con-
gress. The members formed in procession in
the hall where they meet, and proceeded to
the reception parlor ex-President Tyler, and
Gov. Chase, of Ohio led the van. The latter
introduced Mr.. Tyler. Mr.. Lincoln received
him with all the respect due his position.
The several delegates were then presented to
Mr.. Lincoln by Governor Chase, in the usual
manner. The most marvellous thing that oc-
Cured was the manifestation by Mr.. Lincoln
of most wonderful memory. 1t will be re-
membered that the Convention is composed
of many men, who although distinguished
in their time, have until very lately not been
very much known. Each member was intro
duced by his last name, but in nine cases out
of ten Mr.. Lincoln would promptly recall
their entire name, no matter how many initi1ls
it contained. In several instances he recited
the historical "reminiscences of families. In
short, he understands the material Of the Peace
Congress.
When the tall General Doniphan, of Mis-
souri,, was introduced, Mr.. Lincoln had to
look up to catch Doniphan's eye. He inn
medately inquired:
ssIs this Doniphan, who made that splendid
march across the Plains, and swept the swift
Camanches before him !''
81 commanded the expedition across the
Palms." modestly responded the General.
ssThen you have come up TO the standard OF
my expectations" rejoned Mr.. Lincoln.
After the reception of the Peace Congress
was concludad, large number OF citizens
were presented. Mr.. Lincoln was then potifi-
ed that the ante-rooms and main parlors OF
the hotel were filled with ladies, who desired
to pay their respects, to which the President
elect very promptly consented. The ladies
then passed in review, each being introduced
by the gentleman who accompanied her. Mr..
Lincoln underwent the new ordeal with much
good humor.
At 10 O'Clock Mr.. Buchanan's Cabinet called
and paid their respects, in response to Mr..
Lincoln IS coup d'etat at the White House this
morning. Their reception was very pleasant.
1t may be truly said that Mr.. Lincolns first
day in Washington as President elect has been
a decided success. Democrats, as well as Re-
publicans, are pleased with him, and the la
dies, who thought he was awkward. at first
sight, t,changed their opinion, and now declare
him ga very pleasant, sociable gentleman, and
not bad looking by any means.''