Chapters 3-4 Summary and Analysis

Donald entitles the third chapter "Cold, Calculating, Unimpassioned Reason," a quote from Lincoln describing how he feels the decisions of leaders should be made. Donald points out that during this time in Lincoln's early political career he often seems to be ruled by his passions and sometimes lets his temper get the better of him in public exchanges with political opponents.

The chapter covers the time of Lincoln's life from his arrival in Springfield and his marriage. Lincoln finds lodging sharing a room with a storekeeper named Joshua Speed, with whom he becomes close friends. He becomes a partner with John Todd Stuart in a law firm that provides him with some income in addition to his salary as a legislator. Based in Sangamon County, Lincoln's practice also requires him to follow the district judge as he travels around...