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Chicago May 19 1860
Dear Lincoln
I well know the manner in which you will be approached and the efforts of gentlemen to Lay you under obligation: I therefore say that in regard to your nomination I have done nothing but that which positive duty demanded.
Having said this I proceed to remark that to my certain knowledge your selection was made upon two grounds 1 That you are an honest man. 2nd That you are not in the hands of Corrupt or dishonest men.
To the Correctness of these assertions my own veracity and honor are pledged. You will be elected, and if you will permit no designing men to Lay you under apparent obligations, but keep yourself and the office pure and sepreate from the corrupting influences which have beset our public men, and exert its Constitutional powers from to the purposes of truth justice, and the elevation of our race, you will Confer the only favor which your friend and servant solicits.
Verry truly
J R Giddings
