Page:The Presidents of the United States, 1789-1914, v. II.djvu/314

252 LIVES OF THE PRESIDENTS New Salem giving him 277 votes against 3. He now began to look about him for employment, and for a time thought seriously of learning the trade of a blacksmith; but an opportunity presented itself to buy the only store in the settlement, which he did, giving his notes for the whole amount in volved. He was associated with an idle and disso lute partner, and the business soon went to wreck, leaving Lincoln burdened with a debt which it re quired several years of frugality and industry for him to meet ; but it was finally paid in full. After this failure he devoted himself with greatest earnestness and industry to the study of law. He was appointed postmaster of New Salem in 1833, an office which he held for three years. The emoluments of the place were very slight, but it gave him opportunities for reading. At the same time he was appointed deputy to John Calhoun, the county surveyor, and, his modest wants being sup plied by these two functions, he gave his remain ing leisure unreservedly to the study of law and politics. He was a candidate for the legislature in August, 1834, and was elected this time at the head of the list. He was re-elected in 1836, 1838, and 1840, after which he declined further election. After entering the legislature he did not return to New Salem, but, having by this time attained some proficiency in the law, he removed to Springfield, where he went into partnership with John T.