John P. Sanderson to David Davis, November 12, 1860

Phila. Nov 12. 1860

Dear Sir:

I congratulate you, with all my heart, on our glorious victory throughout the country, and especially do I congratulate you upon the splendid triumph in your own state, to secure which, I know, you contributed so large a share of labor and influence. On the night of election, surrounded by a circle of noble spirits, good and true men, who [felt?] conscious of having done their full duty, and who having no longer any doubt or misgiving of the result of their labors in their own state, there was among all but one feeling and anxiety, and that was to hear from New York, Illinois, and New Jersey. Soon intelligence came that New York was safe, and New Jersey doubtful, but they hung on until one oclock to hear from Illinois, and then until two, finally three oclk when I recd. a despatch from Mr Judd bringing the crowning [glory?] of [this?] intelligence of the night, that Illinois, too, was safe, and most probably the Legislatures so as to secure a Republican U. S. Senator.

In this great achievement all the free states have done nobly, except Jersey, where the result is still in doubt, though I have very little doubt in my mind, it is lost. I am not surprised at it, though I had hoped the moral effect of our October election would save that state. [The?] truth is there was no leadership in that state. Had Mr Dayton been [less sour?] in his disappointment, and exhibited the same magnanimity which [Sen?] Cameron did in our State and followed his example by leading off in an active and efficient [canvas?] of the state, there would now be no doubt about the result; but he failed to do this, and the result is the probable loss of the state. It is true, he [wakened?] up at the heels of [this?] contest, and made some effort to save the state, but it was too late, the favorable moment had [illegible].

What the exact result will be in this state, I am yet unable to say, but I think Lincoln’s plurality over the Reading electors will reach, if not exceed, 100,000, and his majority over all cannot fall short, I think of 60 and may exceed 70,000. In our own City, where Foster had about 1800 majority over Curtin, Mr Lincoln now has between 800 and 1000 over all.

Having now performed our part as the sovereigns of the land, Mr Lincoln’s labors and troubles only commence, and they will be of the gravest character and responsibilities. That he will meet [them?] in the truest spirit of patriotism, and with the most devoted integrity of purpose, I have not a simple doubt. His whole life and character afford ample [aperance?] of that; and there rests a solemn responsibility upon those of his friends around him to uphold and sustain him in that purpose, and to guard and protect him against the insidious wiles of demagogues and selfish peace hunters.

I should now be glad to see and have a good talk with you. I have a strong desire to make a trip to Freeport, and in that case would manage to see you at Bloomington, but my [professional?] and official engagements, many of them long delayed, are such that I fear I shall not get off. Cannot you make [us?] a visit? Your trip in the summer was not without its uses, I believe, and, I doubt not, a trip now would not be attended without its benefits. Present my kind regards to Mr Swett, and let me hear from you at your leisure.

Very Truly Yours
J P Sanderson