Law partner and biographer (1818–1891) of President Abraham Lincoln who was an early member of the new Republican Party and was elected mayor of Springfield, Illinois. Manuscript DS, signed “Lincoln & Herndon,” one page both sides, 8 x 12.5, September 15, 1851. A petition for Dower in Porter v. Sarpy, in part: "Your oratrix Margaret Porter most respectfully represent unto your Honor that she was married to one William Porter in the month of March AD 1832…and that during said marriage said Wm Porter was seized in fee simple and possessed of the following piece of land lying and being in the city of Springfield…on which are erected two (2) brick stores…that said Wm Porter purchased said lot of Jas D Henry…And your oratrix would further show that she has not legally released her right of dower in and to said lands although she signed the deed with said Wm Porter to said Hoffman. And your oratrix would further show that Wm Porter departed this life on or about the 8 of March 1851 leaving your oratrix his widow…In tender consideration of all which premises your oratrix prays that John B. Sarpy may be made defendant to this bill and that the Peoples writ of subpoena issue for said Sarpy commanding &c. And that he answer this bill particularly and explicitly. And your oratrix prays upon a finder hearing of this cause your Honor will decree and adjudge that she have her dower in and to the lot aforesaid. And that your Honor will appoint commissioners in pursuance to the statutes of this State in relation to dower.” Signed at the conclusion on behalf of the law firm by Herndon. In fine condition.