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The book tells the story of the Traylor family, including Samson, Sarah, Joe, and Betsey, as they travel through the Adirondack wilderness in 1831 to reach the "Land of Plenty" in Illinois. Along the way, they meet various characters, including Henry Brimstead and his children, who join them on their journey. The family faces numerous challenges, but with the help of their new friends, they persevere and eventually arrive in New Salem, Illinois. There, they meet Abe Lincoln, a young man working as a clerk in a store, who becomes a key figure in their lives. The story explores themes of community, friendship, and the power of human relationships to overcome adversity. As the narrative unfolds, Abe's character is revealed, showing his strong sense of justice, love of learning, and desire to make a difference in the world. The community comes together to help the Traylors build a new home, and Abe plays a key role in the construction process. Meanwhile, a romantic thread develops between Bim Kelso, the daughter of Jack Kelso, and Harry Needles, a young man who has joined the Traylor family on their journey. The story also introduces other characters, including Ann Rutledge, who becomes engaged to Abe but eventually passes away, leaving him heartbroken. The narrative follows Abe's journey as he becomes elected to the legislature and prepares to take office, outlining his plans for improving the county. Throughout the book, the themes of love, friendship, community, and individualism are woven together, providing a rich and nuanced portrayal of life on the frontier. Ultimately, the story concludes with Harry and Bim's marriage and Abe's courtship of Mary Todd, setting the stage for the significant events that will shape their lives in the years to come.
The story begins with the journey of Samson Traylor, his wife Sarah, and their two children, Joe and Betsey, as they travel through the Adirondack wilderness in 1831. They are on their way to the "Land of Plenty" in Illinois, seeking a better life. Along the way, they encounter various characters, including Henry Brimstead, a man who has fallen on hard times, and his children. Samson helps the Brimsteads, and they eventually join the Traylors on their journey. The family faces many challenges, including swamps, broken wagon wheels, and illness, but they persevere and eventually arrive in New Salem, Illinois. There, they meet Abe Lincoln, a young man who is working as a clerk in a store. Abe is a kind and humble person who is well-liked by the community. The story also introduces other characters, including Jack Kelso, a scholar, and his daughter Bim, who becomes infatuated with Harry Needles, a young man who has joined the Traylor family on their journey. As the story unfolds, Abe Lincoln's character is revealed, showing his strong sense of justice, his love of learning, and his desire to make a difference in the world. The community comes together to help the Traylor family build a new home, and Abe plays a key role in the construction process. Meanwhile, Bim Kelso's feelings for Harry Needles grow stronger, and she begins to show her affection for him in various ways. The story is a heartwarming tale of community, friendship, and the power of human relationships to overcome adversity.
The chapter describes the continuation of the Traylor family's journey to the "Land of Plenty" in Illinois. Along the way, they encounter various characters, including the Brimsteads, who join them on their journey. The family faces many challenges, including swamps, broken wagon wheels, and illness, but they persevere and eventually arrive in New Salem, Illinois. There, they meet Abe Lincoln, a young man who is working as a clerk in a store, and other characters, including Jack Kelso and his daughter Bim. The story introduces the theme of community and friendship as the Traylors and other settlers work together to build a new home and overcome the challenges of the frontier. The chapter also highlights the kindness and generosity of the people of New Salem, who welcome the Traylors and offer them help and support. Meanwhile, Bim Kelso's feelings for Harry Needles grow stronger, and she begins to show her affection for him in various ways, marking the beginning of a romantic thread in the story.
The story continues with the introduction of new characters and the development of relationships between them. Samson Traylor and his family arrive in New Salem, Illinois, and are welcomed by the community. They meet Abe Lincoln, a young man who works as a clerk in a store, and Jack Kelso, a scholar who lives in a nearby cabin with his daughter Bim. The community comes together to help the Traylors build a new home, and Abe plays a key role in the construction process. Meanwhile, Bim Kelso's feelings for Harry Needles, a young man who has joined the Traylor family, grow stronger, and she begins to show her affection for him in various ways. The story also touches on the theme of community and friendship, highlighting the kindness and generosity of the people of New Salem.
The story continues with the introduction of new characters and the development of relationships between them. Samson Traylor and his family arrive in New Salem, Illinois, and are welcomed by the community. They meet Abe Lincoln, a young man who works as a clerk in a store, and Jack Kelso, a scholar who lives in a nearby cabin with his daughter Bim. The community comes together to help the Traylors build a new home, and Abe plays a key role in the construction process. Meanwhile, Bim Kelso's feelings for Harry Needles, a young man who has joined the Traylor family, grow stronger, and she begins to show her affection for him in various ways. The story also touches on the theme of community and friendship, highlighting the kindness and generosity of the people of New Salem. As the community works together to build the Traylor's new home, they face a challenge from a group of rough and rowdy men from Clary's Grove, but Abe Lincoln's bravery and strength help to diffuse the situation.
The story continues with the introduction of new characters and the development of relationships between them. Samson Traylor and his family have arrived in New Salem, Illinois, and are being welcomed by the community. They meet Abe Lincoln, a young man who works as a clerk in a store, and Jack Kelso, a scholar who lives in a nearby cabin with his daughter Bim. The community comes together to help the Traylors build a new home, and Abe plays a key role in the construction process. Meanwhile, Bim Kelso's feelings for Harry Needles, a young man who has joined the Traylor family, grow stronger, and she begins to show her affection for him in various ways. The story also touches on the theme of community and friendship, highlighting the kindness and generosity of the people of New Salem. As the community works together to build the Traylor's new home, they face a challenge from a group of rough and rowdy men from Clary's Grove, but Abe Lincoln's bravery and strength help to diffuse the situation.
The story continues with the introduction of new characters and the development of relationships between them. Samson Traylor and his family have settled in New Salem, Illinois, and are being welcomed by the community. Abe Lincoln, a young man who works as a clerk in a store, is a key figure in the community and is respected for his kindness, intelligence, and strong sense of justice. The community comes together to help the Traylor family build a new home, and Abe plays a key role in the construction process. Meanwhile, Bim Kelso, the daughter of Jack Kelso, is developing feelings for Harry Needles, a young man who has joined the Traylor family on their journey. As the story unfolds, Abe's character is revealed, showing his strong sense of justice, his love of learning, and his desire to make a difference in the world. The community faces challenges, including the arrival of rough and rowdy men from Clary's Grove, but Abe's bravery and strength help to diffuse the situation. The story also introduces the theme of community and friendship as the Traylors and other settlers work together to build a new home and overcome the challenges of the frontier.
The chapter continues the story of Abe Lincoln and the community of New Salem. Abe has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Abe also discusses his personal life, including his feelings for Ann Rutledge, who is in love with John McNeil. Abe tries to comfort Ann as she waits for news from John, who has gone back east to bring back his family. Meanwhile, Abe and Harry Needles go to Springfield to buy new clothes for Abe's upcoming term in the legislature. They are amazed by the pomp and grandeur of the city, and Abe is particularly struck by the fine horses and carriages. Abe's friend, Jack Kelso, advises him to dress well and make a good impression, as he will be representing the community in the legislature.
The chapter continues the story of Abe Lincoln and the community of New Salem. Abe has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Abe also discusses his personal life, including his feelings for Ann Rutledge, who is in love with John McNeil. Meanwhile, Harry Needles and Samson Traylor are working together, with Harry helping Samson with his chores and Abe with his surveying work. The community comes together to help the Traylors build a new home, and Abe plays a key role in the construction process. As the story unfolds, Abe's character is revealed, showing his strong sense of justice, his love of learning, and his desire to make a difference in the world. The community faces challenges, including the arrival of rough and rowdy men from Clary's Grove, but Abe's bravery and strength help to diffuse the situation. The story also introduces the theme of community and friendship as the Traylors and other settlers work together to build a new home and overcome the challenges of the frontier.
Abe Lincoln and his friend Harry Needles return to New Salem after the Black Hawk War, and Abe decides to run for the state legislature. He gives a speech outlining his platform, which includes improving the Sangamon River and building schools. Abe also starts a store with William Berry, but it struggles due to Berry's drinking and poor business sense. Meanwhile, Ann Rutledge is waiting to hear from her lover, John McNeil, who has gone back east, and Abe tries to comfort her as she becomes increasingly worried and disappointed. Abe and Harry travel around the county, campaigning and surveying roads, and Abe eventually wins the election. As Ann's situation becomes more desperate, Abe continues to support and advise her, while also navigating his own feelings and ambitions.
The chapter continues the story of Abe Lincoln and the community of New Salem. Abe has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Abe also discusses his personal life, including his feelings for Ann Rutledge, who is in love with John McNeil. Meanwhile, Harry Needles and Samson Traylor are working together, with Harry helping Samson with his chores and Abe with his surveying work. The community comes together to help the Traylors build a new home, and Abe plays a key role in the construction process. As the story unfolds, Abe's character is revealed, showing his strong sense of justice, his love of learning, and his desire to make a difference in the world. The community faces challenges, including the arrival of rough and rowdy men from Clary's Grove, but Abe's bravery and strength help to diffuse the situation. The story also introduces the theme of community and friendship as the Traylors and other settlers work together to build a new home and overcome the challenges of the frontier.
The chapter continues the story of Abe Lincoln and the community of New Salem. Abe has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Abe also discusses his personal life, including his feelings for Ann Rutledge, who is in love with John McNeil. Meanwhile, Harry Needles and Samson Traylor are working together, with Harry helping Samson with his chores and Abe with his surveying work. The community comes together to help the Traylors build a new home, and Abe plays a key role in the construction process. As the story unfolds, Abe's character is revealed, showing his strong sense of justice, his love of learning, and his desire to make a difference in the world. The community faces challenges, including the arrival of rough and rowdy men from Clary's Grove, but Abe's bravery and strength help to diffuse the situation. The story also introduces the theme of community and friendship as the Traylors and other settlers work together to build a new home and overcome the challenges of the frontier.
The story continues with Abe Lincoln's life in New Salem, where he has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Meanwhile, Harry Needles and Samson Traylor are working together, with Harry helping Samson with his chores and Abe with his surveying work. The community comes together to help the Traylors build a new home, and Abe plays a key role in the construction process. As the story unfolds, Abe's character is revealed, showing his strong sense of justice, his love of learning, and his desire to make a difference in the world. The community faces challenges, including the arrival of rough and rowdy men from Clary's Grove, but Abe's bravery and strength help to diffuse the situation. The story also introduces the theme of community and friendship as the Traylors and other settlers work together to build a new home and overcome the challenges of the frontier. Abe becomes engaged to Ann Rutledge, but she eventually passes away, leaving Abe heartbroken. The story then shifts to Harry's journey to Chicago, where he hopes to reunite with Bim Kelso and help her obtain a divorce from her abusive husband. Along the way, Harry, Samson, and Abe encounter various characters, including Henry Brimstead, who has become a successful farmer and inventor. The story explores themes of love, friendship, and community, as well as the challenges and opportunities of life on the frontier.
The chapter continues the story of Abe Lincoln and his friends as they navigate the challenges of life in New Salem, Illinois. Abe is struggling to come to terms with the death of his sweetheart, Ann Rutledge, and is finding it difficult to focus on his work and studies. Meanwhile, Harry Needles is dealing with his own emotional turmoil as he tries to help his friend Bim Kelso, who is trapped in a unhappy marriage. The two friends, along with Samson Traylor, embark on a journey to Chicago, where they hope to find a solution to Bim's problems. Along the way, they encounter various characters, including the eccentric Henry Brimstead, who is obsessed with the idea of building a new city called El Dorado. As they travel, Abe and his friends discuss the issues of the day, including the growth of the city of Chicago and the potential for development in the region. The chapter also touches on the theme of slavery, as Abe and his friends encounter a group of fugitive slaves who are making their way to freedom in the North. Through their conversations and experiences, the characters reveal their values and beliefs, and the chapter sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the rest of the story.
The chapter continues the story of Abe Lincoln and his friends as they navigate the challenges of life in New Salem, Illinois. Abe has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Meanwhile, Harry Needles is dealing with his own emotional turmoil as he tries to help his friend Bim Kelso, who is trapped in an unhappy marriage. The two friends, along with Samson Traylor, embark on a journey to Chicago, where they hope to find a solution to Bim's problems. Along the way, they encounter various characters, including the eccentric Henry Brimstead, who is obsessed with the idea of building a new city called El Dorado. As they travel, Abe and his friends discuss the issues of the day, including the growth of the city of Chicago and the potential for development in the region. The chapter also touches on the theme of slavery, as Abe and his friends encounter a group of fugitive slaves who are making their way to freedom in the North. Through their conversations and experiences, the characters reveal their values and beliefs, and the chapter sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the rest of the story.
The chapter continues the story of Abe Lincoln and his friends as they navigate the challenges of life in New Salem, Illinois. Abe has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Meanwhile, Harry Needles is dealing with his own emotional turmoil as he tries to help his friend Bim Kelso, who is trapped in an unhappy marriage. The story also introduces the theme of slavery, as Abe and his friends encounter a group of fugitive slaves who are making their way to freedom in the North. Through their conversations and experiences, the characters reveal their values and beliefs, and the chapter sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the rest of the story. Abe becomes engaged to Ann Rutledge, but she eventually passes away, leaving Abe heartbroken. The story then shifts to Harry's journey to Chicago, where he hopes to reunite with Bim Kelso and help her obtain a divorce from her abusive husband. Along the way, Harry, Samson, and Abe encounter various characters, including Henry Brimstead, who has become a successful farmer and inventor. The story explores themes of love, friendship, and community, as well as the challenges and opportunities of life on the frontier.
The story continues with Abe Lincoln, Harry Needles, and Samson Traylor traveling together, discussing various topics such as finance, women, and the growth of Illinois. They visit Henry Brimstead, who is enthusiastic about his plans for a new city, El Dorado, and has sold all the corner lots. However, Samson is skeptical and advises Brimstead to be cautious. Along the way, they stop at a tavern, where they meet a handsome young man with a diamond in his shirt-front, who is revealed to be Mr. Davis, a suitor of Bim's. The group decides to camp outside, and during the night, Samson catches a thief trying to steal Abe's horse. They apprehend the man and continue their journey, discussing the importance of honesty and integrity. Meanwhile, Harry is eager to reach Chicago and help Bim obtain a divorce, and Abe is determined to assist him. The story highlights the themes of friendship, loyalty, and the challenges of growing up and making important life decisions.
The chapter continues the story of Abe Lincoln and his friends as they navigate the challenges of life in New Salem, Illinois. Abe has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Meanwhile, Harry Needles is dealing with his own emotional turmoil as he tries to help his friend Bim Kelso, who is trapped in an unhappy marriage. The story also introduces the theme of slavery, as Abe and his friends encounter a group of fugitive slaves who are making their way to freedom in the North. Through their conversations and experiences, the characters reveal their values and beliefs, and the chapter sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the rest of the story.
The story continues with Abe Lincoln, Harry Needles, and Samson Traylor traveling together, discussing various topics such as finance, women, and the growth of Illinois. They visit Henry Brimstead, who is enthusiastic about his plans for a new city, El Dorado, and has sold all the corner lots. However, Samson is skeptical and advises Brimstead to be cautious. Along the way, they stop at a tavern, where they meet a handsome young man with a diamond in his shirt-front, who is revealed to be Mr. Davis, a suitor of Bim's. The group decides to camp outside, and during the night, Samson catches a thief trying to steal Abe's horse. They apprehend the man and continue their journey, discussing the importance of honesty and integrity. Meanwhile, Harry is eager to reach Chicago and help Bim obtain a divorce, and Abe is determined to assist him. The story highlights the themes of friendship, loyalty, and the challenges of growing up and making important life decisions.
The story continues with Abe Lincoln's life in New Salem, Illinois, where he has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Meanwhile, Harry Needles is dealing with his own emotional turmoil as he tries to help his friend Bim Kelso, who is trapped in an unhappy marriage. The story also introduces the theme of slavery, as Abe and his friends encounter a group of fugitive slaves who are making their way to freedom in the North. Through their conversations and experiences, the characters reveal their values and beliefs, and the chapter sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the rest of the story.
The chapter continues the story of Abe Lincoln and his friends as they navigate the challenges of life in New Salem, Illinois. Abe has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Meanwhile, Harry Needles is dealing with his own emotional turmoil as he tries to help his friend Bim Kelso, who is trapped in an unhappy marriage. The story also introduces the theme of slavery, as Abe and his friends encounter a group of fugitive slaves who are making their way to freedom in the North. Through their conversations and experiences, the characters reveal their values and beliefs, and the chapter sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the rest of the story.
The story continues with Abe Lincoln's life in New Salem, Illinois, where he has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Meanwhile, Harry Needles is dealing with his own emotional turmoil as he tries to help his friend Bim Kelso, who is trapped in an unhappy marriage. The story also introduces the theme of slavery, as Abe and his friends encounter a group of fugitive slaves who are making their way to freedom in the North. Through their conversations and experiences, the characters reveal their values and beliefs, and the chapter sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the rest of the story. Abe Lincoln's character is revealed, showing his strong sense of justice, his love of learning, and his desire to make a difference in the world. The community faces challenges, including the arrival of rough and rowdy men from Clary's Grove, but Abe's bravery and strength help to diffuse the situation. The story also introduces the theme of community and friendship as the Traylors and other settlers work together to build a new home and overcome the challenges of the frontier.
The story continues with Harry Needles and Bim Kelso's journey to Chicago, where they plan to get married. Along the way, they stop at the home of Peter Lukins, where they find a beautifully set table with a wedding supper. Harry and Bim decide to get married right away, and Stephen Nuckles, a minister, performs the ceremony on the banks of Broad Creek. After the wedding, they spend the night at the Lukins' cabin, enjoying their wedding feast and each other's company. The next day, they return to Chicago, where they are greeted as a married couple. Harry and Bim's love story is one of true devotion and commitment, and they are finally able to be together after years of separation and hardship. The story also touches on the theme of individualism in the new capital, Springfield, where Abe Lincoln and other prominent figures are making a name for themselves in politics and law. Lincoln's courtship of Mary Todd is also mentioned, and his decision to marry her despite their differences. The story concludes with a brief memoir by Josiah Traylor, who reflects on the years he spent with Lincoln and the significant events that shaped his life, including his marriage to Mary Todd and his time in Congress.
The chapter continues the story of Abe Lincoln and his friends in New Salem, Illinois. Abe has been elected to the legislature and is preparing to take office. He gives a speech to the voters, outlining his plans for improving the county, including the construction of a railroad and the improvement of the Sangamon River. Meanwhile, Harry Needles is dealing with his own emotional turmoil as he tries to help his friend Bim Kelso, who is trapped in an unhappy marriage. The story also introduces the theme of slavery, as Abe and his friends encounter a group of fugitive slaves who are making their way to freedom in the North. Through their conversations and experiences, the characters reveal their values and beliefs, and the chapter sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the rest of the story.
The story continues with Abe Lincoln and his friends navigating life in New Salem, Illinois. After being elected to the legislature, Abe prepares to take office and gives a speech outlining his plans for improving the county. Meanwhile, Harry Needles deals with his emotional turmoil as he tries to help his friend Bim Kelso, who is trapped in an unhappy marriage. The community comes together to help the Traylors build a new home, and Abe plays a key role in the construction process. As the story unfolds, Abe's character is revealed, showing his strong sense of justice, love of learning, and desire to make a difference in the world. The community faces challenges, including the arrival of rough and rowdy men from Clary's Grove, but Abe's bravery and strength help to diffuse the situation. The story introduces the theme of community and friendship as the Traylors and other settlers work together to build a new home and overcome the challenges of the frontier.
The story continues with the journey of Harry Needles and Bim Kelso, who are finally able to marry after many years of separation and hardship. They spend a romantic day riding through the prairies, and Bim reveals that she has planned a surprise wedding for them. They get married in a small cabin, with Stephen Nuckles, a minister, performing the ceremony. The newlyweds spend a happy evening together, enjoying a wedding supper and each other's company. Meanwhile, Samson Traylor, Harry's friend, reflects on the past and the people they have met, including Abe Lincoln, who has become a successful lawyer and politician. The story also touches on the theme of individualism in the new capital, Springfield, where Abe Lincoln and other prominent figures are making a name for themselves in politics and law. Abe Lincoln's courtship of Mary Todd is also mentioned, and his decision to marry her despite their differences. The story concludes with a brief memoir by Josiah Traylor, who reflects on the years he spent with Lincoln and the significant events that shaped his life.