Mary Lincoln Extra Credit Questions

[Amy L.]

It's my 2nd-hand understanding that the "foolish and uncalled for rencontre" happened because of Mary Lincoln.

(I haven't studied these Sangamon contributions, only read two of the letters signed Rebecca. Might anyone know of a modern publication that "proves" A. Lincoln wrote the letter that is attributed him?? It's so good.)
(Also - Is it recorded for posterity exactly what from those series James Shields found so offensive? Hand-holding? Puffy cat fur? The Bank War had been going on for three election-cycles... As someone in the public spotlight of politics, did ridicule not go with the territory?)