They were engaged, although both had acquiesced in the wishes of Anne's parents that they should not be married until she was older.
About this time Lincoln appeared in New Salem and went to board at the Rutledge tavern.

Here he saw Anne, and was much in her company.

During the next year McNeill became restless and discontented.

He said it was because he wanted to see his people.

So he decided to go East on a visit.