Lincoln and Syphilis

[AussieMick]

Rob, you wrote 'Another point on those years. I don't imagine anyone would question that members of the Clary's Grove Boys would have visited prostitutes. After the Lincoln-Armstrong wrestling match, Lincoln gained their respect. I wonder if they would have seen Lincoln as "one of them" if he refused to utilize the lady's services? This is a point I obviously have no evidence to sustain, and in reality I'm forming it as I type. There may be absolutely nothing to it, so take it for what you think it's worth.'

I think I can see where you're coming from. About Lincoln being seen as "one of them".
It raises a very good point about Lincoln. His ability to be respected for what he was and what he believed in ... whilst resisting peer pressure. He didnt drink alcohol. Didnt smoke. He wasnt afraid to speak against the majority view ... admittedly when it seemed opportune. He was certainly not a populist ... a "virtue-signaller" in today's terminology. He was the type of person that is essential in a development team, a war cabinet, political organisation. Someone that has a mind of their own and doesnt care if other people want to act like sheep ... Ok, Ive drifted off subject.

I would point out that he seemed not have been experienced in the use of prostitutes when talking, post-New Salem, to Speed (for example, his 'Where can I get some?' question). Unless I suppose you assume that Lincoln had made use of prostitutes in New Salem and was now simply seeking information from a local as to where he should go in order to continue the practice.