John Henry Brown was a miniature painter, living and working in Philadelphia. Politically he was a Democrat, but he had met Lincoln in August of 1860 when he was commissioned to paint a portrait of Lincoln for a supporter.
Transcription:
At Miss Rogers picture. Mr. Cass has resigned his place in Mr. Buchanan’s Cabinet because the President would not send and additional force to the forts at Charleston, S. C. Thus, two members of the Cabinet have resigned, for reasons almost opposite. The President has appointed the fourth day of January next, as a day of humiliation, fasting & prayer in consequence of the threatening state of affairs.
Citation: John Henry Brown (1818-1891), autograph journal/account book. Philadelphia, 1844-1890. AMs 574/14.1