According to Team of Rivals, he wasn't interested in seances in order to connect with the dead. He knew it was all fake; he enjoyed the showmanship. He was interested in learning the "mentalists"' tricks.
Very fascinating piece Eddie. When reviewing the life of Honest Abe, I truly believe the things he stood for and accomplished as a human being far outweigh those he did as a president. He was a man who knew that life was not going to be easy, and that things would not be handed to him on a silver platter. But I am quite surprised, Eddie that you didn't mention perhaps the one feat that saved arguably thousands of lives...his experience as a Vampire killer. Man...what Hollywood won't stoop to. What's next? Grover Cleveland...Exorcist!
Your knowledge of history is bizarre and distorted.