Lincoln in the Legislature--Eight Consecutive Years of Service--His Influence in the House--Leader of the Whig Party in Illinois--Takes a Hand in National Politics--Presidential Election in 1840--A "Log Cabin" Reminiscence--Some Memorable Political Encounters--A Tilt with Douglas--Lincoln Facing a Mob--His Physical Courage--Lincoln as Duellist--The Affair with General Shields--An Eye-Witness' Account of the Duel--Courtship and Marriage.