John Henry Brown was a painter of portrait miniatures, living and working in Philadelphia. He had met Lincoln in August of 1860 when he was commissioned to paint Lincoln’s portrait for a supporter, but although Brown liked Lincoln personally, he did not agree with Republican policies.
Transcript:
At Com: Conovers picture.
These are fearful times. A silent, but nevertheless perfect, reign of terror exists here. Those who do not approve of a settlement of our troubles, by the sword, are, for prudential reasons, obliged to remain very quiet. This prudential silence has created a seeming oneness of sentiment in the north, which really does not exist.
Citation: John Henry Brown, autograph journal/account book. Philadelphia, 1844-1890. AMs 573/14.1