Lincoln image

[Linda Anderson]

Is it allowed to say the first one reminds me of Beethoven? But I don't find it evil, rather it suggests a keen mind.

Perhaps that expression is what Gore Vidal has Seward describe in Lincoln.

Lincoln and Seward are discussing Seward's April 1, 1861 memorandum in which Seward advises the newly elected Lincoln that "we should begin a continental war with the European powers as a huge diversion." Lincoln quotes Seward that "'Either the President must do it himself, and all the while be active in it, or devolve it on some member of his Cabinet.'"

It is during this exchange that "Lincoln looked Seward straight in the eyes. Although the grey eyes were as dreamy as ever, the left lid was drawn higher than usual.

"These are the eyes of a hunter, thought Seward; and he shifted his ground."