Abraham Lincoln
The Papers And Writings Of Abraham Lincoln-VOL. III (Chap. 6)
Mr. Douglas To Mr. Lincoln.

Bement, Platt Co., Ill., July 30, 1858.

Dear Sir,—Your letter dated yesterday, accepting my proposition for a joint discussion at one prominent point in each Congressional District, as stated in my previous letter, was received this morning.

The times and places designated are as follows:

        Ottawa, La Salle County August 21st, 1858.
        Freeport, Stephenson County “ 27th,
        Jonesboro, Union County, September 15th,
        Charleston, Coles County “ 18th,
        Galesburgh, Knox County October 7th,
        Quincy, Adams County “ 13th,
        Alton, Madison County “ 15th,

I agree to your suggestion that we shall alternately open and close the discussion. I will speak at Ottawa one hour, you can reply, occupying an hour and a half, and I will then follow for half an hour. At Freeport, you shall open the discussion and speak one hour; I will follow for an hour and a half, and you can then reply for half an hour. We will alternate in like manner in each successive place.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. A. DOUGLAS.