A visitor in Washington once had an appointment to see Mr. Lincoln at five o'clock in the morning.  The gentleman made a hasty toilet and presented himself at a quarter of five in the waiting-room of the President.  He asked the usher if he could see Mr. Lincoln.
 
``No,'' he replied.
 
``But I have an engagement to meet him this morning,'' answered the visitor.
 
``At what hour?'' asked the usher.
 
``At five o'clock.''
 
``Well, sir, he will see you at five.''
 
The visitor waited patiently, walking to and fro for a few minutes, when he heard a voice as if in grave conversation.
 
``Who is talking in the next room?'' he asked.
 ``It is the President, sir,'' said the usher, who then explained that it was Mr. Lincoln's custom to spend every morning from four to five reading the Scriptures, and praying.