"A. Lincoln."
Lincoln's mentor-like interest in his step-mother and his shiftless and almost unfortunate step-brother was in no wise diminished by the death of his father. He writes:
"Springfield, Aug. 31,1851.
"Dear Brother:
"Inclosed is the deed for the land. We are all well, and have nothing in the way of news. We have had no cholera here for about two weeks.
"Give my love to all, and especially to Mother.
"Yours as ever,
"A. Lincoln."
No more practical or kindly-earnest advice could have been given than this:
"Shelbyville, Nov. 4, 1851.