Robert was thrilled that his Pa asked him to ride on the Inaugural train to Washington City. This trip would be memorable for Robert for the following reasons:

Robert lost his Pa’s inauguration speech before the train reached Indianapolis  (fortunately Abe found it)

Robert woke up to read he was “the Prince of Rails”

(the Prince of Wales had recently visited the United States)

Robert was feted by a young Republican group in Cincinnati (possibly the first time he smoked a cigar)

Robert spotted a young girl in the crowd who had come to hear Lincoln speak.  (Before Lincoln was elected Presient, this girl had written to the President Elect suggesting he grow a beard to look more presidential).

Robert almost was killed when an angry mob boarded 

the train in Baltimore  (Robert had to fight some of the mob).

Robert probably traveled more miles by train than any other child.