Lincoln's law partnership with John T. Stuart had lasted four
years. Then Stuart was elected to Congress, and another one was
formed with Judge Stephen T. Logan. It was a well-timed and
important change. Stuart had always cared more for politics than
for law. With Logan law was the main object, and under his
guidance and encouragement Lincoln entered upon the study and
practical work of his profession in a more serious spirit than
ever before. His interest in politics continued, however, and in
truth his practice at that time was so small as to leave ample
time for both. Stuart had been twice elected to Congress, and
very naturally Lincoln, who served his party quite as faithfully,
and was fully as well known, hoped for a similar honor. He had
profited greatly by the companionship and friendly rivalry of the
talented young men of Springfield, but their talent made the
prize he wished the harder to gain. Twice he was disappointed,
the nomination going to other men; but in May, 1846, he was
nominated, and in August of the same year elected, to the
Thirtieth Congress. He had the distinction of being the only Whig
member from his State, the other Illinois congressmen at that
time all being Democrats; but he proved no exception to the
general rule that a man rarely comes into notice during his first
term in the National House of Representatives. A new member has
much to learn, even when, like Lincoln, long service in a State
legislature has taught him how the business of making laws is
carried on. He must find out what has been done and is likely to
be done on a multitude of subjects new to him, must make the
acquaintance of his fellow-members, must visit the departments of
government almost daily to look after the interests of people
from his State and congressional district. Legally he is elected
for a term of two years. Practically a session of five or six