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Chapter 11 June–September 1876 EventhoughMaryLincolnnowhadcontrolofherownproperty,herantipathytoward her son had not lessened. She, in fact, immediately sought to exact revenge against Robert for his actions by printing accusations against him in the newspapers, by accusing him of thievery and double dealing, by threatening lawsuits against him, and, ultimately, by cutting off all communication with him. Mary Lincoln to Myra Bradwell Springfield, Ill., June 18, 1876 My dear Mrs. Bradwell: Yourmostwelcomeletter,wasreceivedlast evening and I am quickly demonstrating the pleasure it afforded me by replying at once. God is just,retribution, must follow those who act wickedly in this life,sooner or later compensation surely awaits those,who suffer unjustly,if not here,in a brighter and happier world. The most villainous plot, has come to a close, but on Friday morning,whentheyoungman,whoperpetrateditcamedowntoS[pringfield]when I looked into his face (at a slight distance you may be sure),I saw the reluctance,with which he yielded up what he so ignominiously fought for—my poor pittance,as the world goes—so far as wealth is concerned—“a widow’s mite,” my bonds. Prayers will scarcely avail in his case I think.My heart fails me,when I think of the contrast between himself and my noble glorious husband,and my precious sons,who have only “gone before” and are anxiously I am sure, awaiting the reunion, where no more separation comes—and so I told him (R. T. L.) he could not approach us in the other world—on account of his heartless conduct, to the wife of a man who worshipped me—as well as my blessed sons did. This one as my beloved husband always said was so very different from the rest of us. Prided himself on his philosophical nature—not satisfied with the fortune I bequeathed him in one morning,* * This probably refers to the division of Tad’s estate upon his death in July 1871. By state law, Mary was entitled to two-thirds of his $35,750 estate and Robert to oneEmerson_Text .indd 186 5/18/12 3:37 PM June–September 1876 187 desiring the rest, brought false charges against me. The only trouble about me, in all my sorrows and bereavements has been that my mind has always been too clear and remembrances have always been too keen,in the midst of my griefs.As to Swett he has proved himself to be, the most unmitigated scoundrel and hell will be his portion and doubtless, he will have company.Never could such a creature approach my husband,who loved me so devotedly—in the other life—I have my dear friend, a very great favor to ask of yourself[,] your good husband and the gentleman who called with you at B[atavia] the City Editor,of the Times.* If I were to tell you three, all the utterances of this man R.T.L.you would not refrain from writing the latter person up, without a day’s delay. Your pen is sharp, so is Judge Bradwell’s, so is the Editor’s, just named, of course you would not wish your names to appear, but you will not fail me,I am sure,now is the time,have justice rendered me,my dearly loved friend,see the City Editor of the Times,before the close of the day,when you receive this letter.I have been a deeply wronged woman,by one,for whom I would have poured out, my life’s blood. R. T. L.’s imprecations against you all, have been very great, only on account of your being my true friends.Donot allow a day to pass,before this writing isdone and forwarded in every direction.Let not his wickedness triumph.It appears there is no lawfor the widow—inthis land,and I solemnly pledge you my word as an honorable woman, that not one word shall ever escape my lips—not a person in this house or elsewhere about any article or the probable author,that may be published.My sister Mrs. E. sat by me on Friday for about an hour and a half and in a quiet composed and I trust lady like manner I gave expression to my feelings as to sins he had committed against a broken hearted woman who had been called upon to give up, all her dearly beloved ones,for the time being only—and I asked him to look upon my bleached hair—which he had entirely created caused...

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