Springfield, Ills. Sep. 25. 1860
J.M. Brockman, Esq
Dear Sir
Yours of the 24th asking "the best mode of obtaining a thorough knowledge of the law" is received– The mode is very simple, though laborious, and tedious– It is only to get the books, and read, and study them carefully. Begin with Blackstone's Commentaries, and after reading it carefully through, say twice, take up Chitty's Pleading, Greenleaf's Evidence, & Story's Equity &c, in succession– Work, work, work, is the main thing–
Yours very truly
A. Lincoln