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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:40:03 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:40:03 -0700 |
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diff --git a/12462-h/12462-h.htm b/12462-h/12462-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a3ee45e --- /dev/null +++ b/12462-h/12462-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,21544 @@ +<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN"> +<html lang="en"> +<head> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" + content="text/html; charset=UTF-8"> +<meta content="pg2html (binary v0.16)" + name="generator"> +<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of + A Compilation of the Messages and Papers Of The Presidents, + by James D. Richardson. +</title> +<style type="text/css"> + <!-- + body { margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 5%; } + p { text-indent: 1em; + margin-top: .75em; + font-size: 100%; + text-align: justify; + margin-bottom: .75em; } + h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6 { text-align: center; } + hr { width: 50%; } + hr.full { width: 100%; } + .foot { margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 85%; } + center { padding: 0.8em;} + .r { text-align: right; } + .q { margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; font-size: 80%; } + .t { margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 5%; } + td { font-size: 85%; } + // --> +</style> +</head> +<body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 12462 ***</div> + +<div style="height: 8em;"><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h1> + A COMPILATION OF THE MESSAGES AND PAPERS OF THE PRESIDENTS +</h1> +<center><b> + BY JAMES D. RICHARDSON +</b></center> +<center> + A REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE STATE OF TENNESSEE +</center> +<center> + VOLUME VI +</center> +<center> + PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY OF CONGRESS +</center> +<center> + 1902 +</center> +<hr> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + Prefatory Note +</h2> +<p> + The Presidential papers during the period from March 4, 1861, to March + 4, 1869, are contained in this volume. No other period of American + history since the Revolution comprises so many events of surpassing + importance. The Administrations of Presidents Lincoln, and Johnson + represent two distinct epochs. That of Abraham Lincoln was dedicated to + the successful prosecution of the most stupendous war of modern times, + while that of Andrew Johnson was dedicated to the reestablishment + of peace and the restoration of the Union as it had existed prior + to the war. Strange to say, it fell to the lot of the kind-hearted + humanitarian, who loved peace and his fellow-man, to wage the bloody + conflict of civil war, and the more aggressive, combative character + directed the affairs of the Government while the land took upon itself + the conditions of peace. Yet who can say that each was not best suited + for his particular sphere of action? A greater lover of his kind has not + filled the office of President since Thomas Jefferson, and no public + servant ever left with the people a gentler memory than Abraham Lincoln. + A more self-willed and determined Chief Executive has not held that + office since Andrew Jackson, and no public servant ever left with the + people a higher character for honesty, integrity, and sincerity of + purpose and action than Andrew Johnson. The life of each of these two + great men had been a series of obscure but heroic struggles; each had + experienced a varied and checkered career; each reached the highest + political station of earth. Their official state papers are of supreme + interest, and comprise the utterances of President Lincoln while he in + four years placed in the field nearly three millions of soldiers; what + he said when victories were won or when his armies went down in defeat; + what treasures of blood and money it cost to triumph; also, the + utterances of President Johnson as he through his eventful term waged + the fiercest political battle of our country's history in his efforts, + along his own lines, for the restoration of peace and the reunion of the + States. +</p> +<p> + Interesting papers relating to the death and funeral obsequies of + President Lincoln have been inserted, as also the more important papers + and proceedings connected with the impeachment of President Johnson. +</p> +<p> + Much time and labor have been expended in the compilation of this + volume—more than on any one of the preceding—to the end that all + papers of importance that could be found should be published; and I feel + sure that no other collection of Presidential papers is so thorough and + complete. +</p> +<p> + The perusal of these papers should kindle within the heart of every + citizen of the American Republic, whether he fought on the one side or + the other in that unparalleled struggle, or whether he has come upon the + scene since its closing, a greater love of country, a greater devotion + to the cause of true liberty, and an undying resolve that all the + blessings of a free government and the fullest liberty of the individual + shall be perpetuated. +</p> +<p class="r"> + JAMES D. RICHARDSON. +</p> +<p> + NOVEMBER 25, 1897. +</p> +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> +<hr> +<h2> + Abraham Lincoln +<br> <br> + March 4, 1861, to April 15, 1865 +</h2> +<hr> +<a name="2H_4_0002"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + Abraham Lincoln +</h2> +<p> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN was born in Hardin County, Ky., February 12, 1809. His + earliest ancestor in America was Samuel Lincoln, of Norwich, England, + who settled in Hingham, Mass., where he died, leaving a son, Mordecai, + whose son of the same name removed to Monmouth, N.J., and thence to + Berks County, Pa., where he died in 1735. One of his sons, John, removed + to Buckingham County, Va., and died there, leaving five sons, one of + whom, named Abraham, emigrated to Kentucky about 1780. About 1784 he was + killed by Indians, leaving three sons, Mordecai, Josiah, and Thomas, and + two daughters. Their mother then located in Washington County, Ky., and + there brought up her family. The youngest son, Thomas, learned the trade + of a carpenter, and in 1806 married Nancy Hanks, a niece of the man with + whom he learned his trade. They had three children, the second being + Abraham, the future President of the United States. In 1816 Thomas + Lincoln removed to Indiana, and settled on Little Pigeon Creek, not far + distant from the Ohio River, where Abraham grew to manhood. He made the + best use of his limited opportunities to acquire an education and at the + same time prepare himself for business. At the age of 19 years he was + intrusted with a cargo of farm products, which he took to New Orleans + and sold. In 1830 his father again emigrated, and located in Macon + County, Ill. Abraham by this time had attained the unusual stature of + 6 feet 4 inches, and was of great muscular strength; joined with his + father in building his cabin, clearing the field, and splitting the + rails for fencing the farm. It was not long, however, before his father + again changed his home, locating this time in Coles County, where he + died in 1851 at the age of 73 years. Abraham left his father as soon as + his farm was fenced and cleared and hired himself to a man named Denton + Offutt, in Sangamon County, whom he assisted to build a flatboat; + accompanied him to New Orleans on a trading voyage and returned with him + to New Salem, Menard County, where Offutt opened a store for the sale of + general merchandise. Mr. Lincoln remained with him for a time, during + which he employed his leisure in constant reading and study. Learned + the elements of English grammar and made a beginning in the study of + surveying and the principles of law. But the next year an Indian war + began, and Lincoln volunteered in a company raised in Sangamon County + and was immediately elected captain. His company was organized at + Richland April 21, 1832; but his service in command of it was brief, for + it was mustered out on May 27. Mr. Lincoln immediately reenlisted as a + private and served for several weeks, being finally mustered out on June + 16, 1832, by Lieutenant Robert Anderson, who afterwards commanded Fort + Sumter at the beginning of the civil war. He returned to his home and + made a brief but active canvass for the legislature, but was defeated. + At this time he thought seriously of learning the blacksmith's trade, + but an opportunity was offered him to buy a store, which he did, giving + his notes for the purchase money. He was unfortunate in his selection of + a partner, and the business soon went to wreck, leaving him burdened + with a heavy debt, which he finally paid in full. He then applied + himself earnestly to the study of the law. Was appointed postmaster of + New Salem in 1833, and filled the office for three years. At the same + time was appointed deputy county surveyor. In 1834 was elected to the + legislature, and was reelected in 1836, 1838, and 1840, after which he + declined further election. In his last two terms he was the candidate of + his party for the speakership of the house of representatives. In 1837 + removed to Springfield, where he entered into partnership with John + T. Stuart and began the practice of the law. November 4, 1842, married + Miss Mary Todd, daughter of Robert S. Todd, of Kentucky. In 1846 was + elected to Congress over Rev. Peter Cartwright. Served only one term, + and was not a candidate for reelection. While a member he advocated the + abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia. Was an unsuccessful + applicant for Commissioner of the General Land Office under President + Taylor; was tendered the office of governor of Oregon Territory, which + he declined. Was an able and influential exponent of the principles of + the Whig party in Illinois, and did active campaign work. Was voted for + by the Whig minority in the State legislature for United States Senator + in 1855. As soon as the Republican party was fully organized throughout + the country he became its leader in Illinois. In 1858 he was chosen by + his party to oppose Stephen A. Douglas for the Senate, and challenged + him to a joint debate. The challenge was accepted, and a most exciting + debate followed, which attracted national attention. The legislature + chosen was favorable to Mr. Douglas, and he was elected. In May, 1860, + when the Republican convention met in Chicago, Mr. Lincoln was nominated + for the Presidency, on the third ballot, over William H. Seward, who was + his principal competitor. Was elected on November 6, receiving 180 + electoral votes to 72 for John C. Breckinridge, 39 for John Bell, and + 12 for Stephen A. Douglas. Was inaugurated March 4, 1861. On June 8, + 1864, was unanimously renominated for the Presidency by the Republican + convention at Baltimore, and at the election in November received 212 + electoral votes to 21 for General McClellan. Was inaugurated for his + second term March 4, 1865. Was shot by an assassin at Ford's Theater, in + Washington, April 14, 1865, and died the next day. Was buried at Oak + Ridge, near Springfield, Ill. +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0003"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + FIRST INAUGURAL ADDRESS. +</h2> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with a custom as old as the Government itself, I appear + before you to address you briefly and to take in your presence the oath + prescribed by the Constitution of the United States to be taken by the + President "before he enters on the execution of his office." +</p> +<p> + I do not consider it necessary at present for me to discuss those + matters of administration about which there is no special anxiety or + excitement. +</p> +<p> + Apprehension seems to exist among the people of the Southern States that + by the accession of a Republican Administration their property and their + peace and personal security are to be endangered. There has never been + any reasonable cause for such apprehension. Indeed, the most ample + evidence to the contrary has all the while existed and been open to + their inspection. It is found in nearly all the published speeches of + him who now addresses you. I do but quote from one of those speeches + when I declare that— +</p> +<p class="q"> + I have no purpose, directly or indirectly, to interfere with the + institution of slavery in the States where it exists. I believe + I have no lawful right to do so, and I have no inclination to do so. +</p> +<p> + Those who nominated and elected me did so with full knowledge that I had + made this and many similar declarations and had never recanted them; and + more than this, they placed in the platform for my acceptance, and as a + law to themselves and to me, the clear and emphatic resolution which I + now read: +</p> +<p class="q"> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the maintenance inviolate of the rights of the + States, and especially the right of each State to order and control its + own domestic institutions according to its own judgment exclusively, is + essential to that balance of power on which the perfection and endurance + of our political fabric depend; and we denounce the lawless invasion by + armed force of the soil of any State or Territory, no matter under what + pretext, as among the gravest of crimes. +</p> +<p> + I now reiterate these sentiments, and in doing so I only press upon + the public attention the most conclusive evidence of which the case is + susceptible that the property, peace, and security of no section are + to be in any wise endangered by the now incoming Administration. I add, + too, that all the protection which, consistently with the Constitution + and the laws, can be given will be cheerfully given to all the States + when lawfully demanded, for whatever cause—as cheerfully to one section + as to another. +</p> +<p> + There is much controversy about the delivering up of fugitives from + service or labor. The clause I now read is as plainly written in the + Constitution as any other of its provisions: +</p> +<p class="q"> + No person held to service or labor in one State, under the laws thereof, + escaping into another, shall in consequence of any law or regulation + therein be discharged from such service or labor, but shall be delivered + up on claim of the party to whom such service or labor may be due. +</p> +<p> + It is scarcely questioned that this provision was intended by those who + made it for the reclaiming of what we call fugitive slaves; and the + intention of the lawgiver is the law. All members of Congress swear + their support to the whole Constitution—to this provision as much as + to any other. To the proposition, then, that slaves whose cases come + within the terms of this clause "shall be delivered up" their oaths are + unanimous. Now, if they would make the effort in good temper, could they + not with nearly equal unanimity frame and pass a law by means of which + to keep good that unanimous oath? +</p> +<p> + There is some difference of opinion whether this clause should be + enforced by national or by State authority, but surely that difference + is not a very material one. If the slave is to be surrendered, it can be + of but little consequence to him or to others by which authority it is + done. And should anyone in any case be content that his oath shall go + unkept on a merely unsubstantial controversy as to <i>how</i> it shall be + kept? +</p> +<p> + Again: In any law upon this subject ought not all the safeguards of + liberty known in civilized and humane jurisprudence to be introduced, so + that a free man be not in any case surrendered as a slave? And might it + not be well at the same time to provide by law for the enforcement of + that clause in the Constitution which guarantees that "the citizens of + each State shall be entitled to all privileges and immunities of + citizens in the several States"? +</p> +<p> + I take the official oath to-day with no mental reservations and with no + purpose to construe the Constitution or laws by any hypercritical rules; + and while I do not choose now to specify particular acts of Congress as + proper to be enforced, I do suggest that it will be much safer for all, + both in official and private stations, to conform to and abide by all + those acts which stand unrepealed than to violate any of them trusting + to find impunity in having them held to be unconstitutional. +</p> +<p> + It is seventy-two years since the first inauguration of a President + under our National Constitution. During that period fifteen different + and greatly distinguished citizens have in succession administered the + executive branch of the Government. They have conducted it through many + perils, and generally with great success. Yet, with all this scope of + precedent, I now enter upon the same task for the brief constitutional + term of four years under great and peculiar difficulty. A disruption of + the Federal Union, heretofore only menaced, is now formidably attempted. +</p> +<p> + I hold that in contemplation of universal law and of the Constitution + the Union of these States is perpetual. Perpetuity is implied, if not + expressed, in the fundamental law of all national governments. It is + safe to assert that no government proper ever had a provision in its + organic law for its own termination. Continue to execute all the express + provisions of our National Constitution, and the Union will endure + forever, it being impossible to destroy it except by some action not + provided for in the instrument itself. +</p> +<p> + Again: If the United States be not a government proper, but an + association of States in the nature of contract merely, can it, as a + contract, be peaceably unmade by less than all the parties who made it? + One party to a contract may violate it—break it, so to speak—but does + it not require all to lawfully rescind it? +</p> +<p> + Descending from these general principles, we find the proposition that + in legal contemplation the Union is perpetual confirmed by the history + of the Union itself. The Union is much older than the Constitution. + It was formed, in fact, by the Articles of Association in 1774. It was + matured and continued by the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It was + further matured, and the faith of all the then thirteen States expressly + plighted and engaged that it should be perpetual, by the Articles of + Confederation in 1778. And finally, in 1787, one of the declared objects + for ordaining and establishing the Constitution was "<i>to form a more + perfect Union</i>." +</p> +<p> + But if destruction of the Union by one or by a part only of the States + be lawfully possible, the Union is <i>less</i> perfect than before the + Constitution, having lost the vital element of perpetuity. +</p> +<p> + It follows from these views that no State upon its own mere motion can + lawfully get out of the Union; that <i>resolves</i> and <i>ordinances</i> to that + effect are legally void, and that acts of violence within any State or + States against the authority of the United States are insurrectionary or + revolutionary, according to circumstances. +</p> +<p> + I therefore consider that in view of the Constitution and the laws the + Union is unbroken, and to the extent of my ability I shall take care, as + the Constitution itself expressly enjoins upon me, that the laws of the + Union be faithfully executed in all the States. Doing this I deem to + be only a simple duty on my part, and I shall perform it so far as + practicable unless my rightful masters, the American people, shall + withhold the requisite means or in some authoritative manner direct the + contrary. I trust this will not be regarded as a menace, but only as the + declared purpose of the Union that it <i>will</i> constitutionally defend and + maintain itself. +</p> +<p> + In doing this there needs to be no bloodshed or violence, and there + shall be none unless it be forced upon the national authority. The power + confided to me will be used to hold, occupy, and possess the property + and places belonging to the Government and to collect the duties and + imposts; but beyond what may be necessary for these objects, there will + be no invasion, no using of force against or among the people anywhere. + Where hostility to the United States in any interior locality shall be + so great and universal as to prevent competent resident citizens from + holding the Federal offices, there will be no attempt to force obnoxious + strangers among the people for that object. While the strict legal right + may exist in the Government to enforce the exercise of these offices, + the attempt to do so would be so irritating and so nearly impracticable + withal that I deem it better to forego for the time the uses of such + offices. +</p> +<p> + The mails, unless repelled, will continue to be furnished in all parts + of the Union. So far as possible the people everywhere shall have that + sense of perfect security which is most favorable to calm thought and + reflection. The course here indicated will be followed unless current + events and experience shall show a modification or change to be proper, + and in every case and exigency my best discretion will be exercised, + according to circumstances actually existing and with a view and a hope + of a peaceful solution of the national troubles and the restoration of + fraternal sympathies and affections. +</p> +<p> + That there are persons in one section or another who seek to destroy the + Union at all events and are glad of any pretext to do it I will neither + affirm nor deny; but if there be such, I need address no word to them. + To those, however, who really love the Union may I not speak? +</p> +<p> + Before entering upon so grave a matter as the destruction of our + national fabric, with all its benefits, its memories, and its hopes, + would it not be wise to ascertain precisely why we do it? Will you + hazard so desperate a step while there is any possibility that any + portion of the ills you fly from have no real existence? Will you, while + the certain ills you fly to are greater than all the real ones you fly + from, will you risk the commission of so fearful a mistake? +</p> +<p> + All profess to be content in the Union if all constitutional rights can + be maintained. Is it true, then, that any right plainly written in the + Constitution has been denied? I think not. Happily, the human mind is + so constituted that no party can reach to the audacity of doing this. + Think, if you can, of a single instance in which a plainly written + provision of the Constitution has ever been denied. If by the mere force + of numbers a majority should deprive a minority of any clearly written + constitutional right, it might in a moral point of view justify + revolution; certainly would if such right were a vital one. But such is + not our case. All the vital rights of minorities and of individuals are + so plainly assured to them by affirmations and negations, guaranties + and prohibitions, in the Constitution that controversies never arise + concerning them. But no organic law can ever be framed with a provision + specifically applicable to every question which may occur in practical + administration. No foresight can anticipate nor any document of + reasonable length contain express provisions for all possible questions. + Shall fugitives from labor be surrendered by national or by State + authority? The Constitution does not expressly say. <i>May</i> Congress + prohibit slavery in the Territories? The Constitution does not expressly + say. <i>Must</i> Congress protect slavery in the Territories? The + Constitution does not expressly say. +</p> +<p> + From questions of this class spring all our constitutional + controversies, and we divide upon them into majorities and minorities. + If the minority will not acquiesce, the majority must, or the Government + must cease. There is no other alternative, for continuing the Government + is acquiescence on one side or the other. If a minority in such case + will secede rather than acquiesce, they make a precedent which in turn + will divide and ruin them, for a minority of their own will secede from + them whenever a majority refuses to be controlled by such minority. For + instance, why may not any portion of a new confederacy a year or two + hence arbitrarily secede again, precisely as portions of the present + Union now claim to secede from it? All who cherish disunion sentiments + are now being educated to the exact temper of doing this. +</p> +<p> + Is there such perfect identity of interests among the States to compose + a new union as to produce harmony only and prevent renewed secession? +</p> +<p> + Plainly the central idea of secession is the essence of anarchy. + A majority held in restraint by constitutional checks and limitations, + and always changing easily with deliberate changes of popular opinions + and sentiments, is the only true sovereign of a free people. Whoever + rejects it does of necessity fly to anarchy or to despotism. Unanimity + is impossible. The rule of a minority, as a permanent arrangement, is + wholly inadmissible; so that, rejecting the majority principle, anarchy + or despotism in some form is all that is left. +</p> +<p> + I do not forget the position assumed by some that constitutional + questions are to be decided by the Supreme Court, nor do I deny that + such decisions must be binding in any case upon the parties to a suit as + to the object of that suit, while they are also entitled to very high + respect and consideration in all parallel cases by all other departments + of the Government. And while it is obviously possible that such decision + may be erroneous in any given case, still the evil effect following it, + being limited to that particular case, with the chance that it may be + overruled and never become a precedent for other cases, can better be + borne than could the evils of a different practice. At the same time, + the candid citizen must confess that if the policy of the Government + upon vital questions affecting the whole people is to be irrevocably + fixed by decisions of the Supreme Court, the instant they are made in + ordinary litigation between parties in personal actions the people will + have ceased to be their own rulers, having to that extent practically + resigned their Government into the hands of that eminent tribunal. Nor + is there in this view any assault upon the court or the judges. It is + a duty from which they may not shrink to decide cases properly brought + before them, and it is no fault of theirs if others seek to turn their + decisions to political purposes. +</p> +<p> + One section of our country believes slavery is <i>right</i> and ought to be + extended, while the other believes it is <i>wrong</i> and ought not to be + extended. This is the only substantial dispute. The fugitive-slave + clause of the Constitution and the law for the suppression of the + foreign slave trade are each as well enforced, perhaps, as any law can + ever be in a community where the moral sense of the people imperfectly + supports the law itself. The great body of the people abide by the dry + legal obligation in both cases, and a few break over in each. This, I + think, can not be perfectly cured, and it would be worse in both cases + <i>after</i> the separation of the sections than before. The foreign slave + trade, now imperfectly suppressed, would be ultimately revived without + restriction in one section, while fugitive slaves, now only partially + surrendered, would not be surrendered at all by the other. +</p> +<p> + Physically speaking, we can not separate. We can not remove our + respective sections from each other nor build an impassable wall between + them. A husband and wife may be divorced and go out of the presence and + beyond the reach of each other, but the different parts of our country + can not do this. They can not but remain face to face, and intercourse, + either amicable or hostile, must continue between them. Is it possible, + then, to make that intercourse more advantageous or more satisfactory + <i>after</i> separation than <i>before</i>? Can aliens make treaties easier than + friends can make laws? Can treaties be more faithfully enforced between + aliens than laws can among friends? Suppose you go to war, you can not + fight always; and when, after much loss on both sides and no gain on + either, you cease fighting, the identical old questions, as to terms of + intercourse, are again upon you. +</p> +<p> + This country, with its institutions, belongs to the people who inhabit + it. Whenever they shall grow weary of the existing Government, they + can exercise their <i>constitutional</i> right of amending it or their + <i>revolutionary</i> right to dismember or overthrow it. I can not be + ignorant of the fact that many worthy and patriotic citizens are + desirous of having the National Constitution amended. While I make no + recommendation of amendments, I fully recognize the rightful authority + of the people over the whole subject, to be exercised in either of the + modes prescribed in the instrument itself; and I should, under existing + circumstances, favor rather than oppose a fair opportunity being + afforded the people to act upon it. I will venture to add that to me + the convention mode seems preferable, in that it allows amendments to + originate with the people themselves, instead of only permitting them to + take or reject propositions originated by others, not especially chosen + for the purpose, and which might not be precisely such as they would + wish to either accept or refuse. I understand a proposed amendment to + the Constitution—which amendment, however, I have not seen—has passed + Congress, to the effect that the Federal Government shall never + interfere with the domestic institutions of the States, including that + of persons held to service. To avoid misconstruction of what I have + said, I depart from my purpose not to speak of particular amendments + so far as to say that, holding such a provision to now be implied + constitutional law, I have no objection to its being made express and + irrevocable. +</p> +<p> + The Chief Magistrate derives all his authority from the people, and they + have conferred none upon him to fix terms for the separation of the + States. The people themselves can do this also if they choose, but the + Executive as such has nothing to do with it. His duty is to administer + the present Government as it came to his hands and to transmit it + unimpaired by him to his successor. +</p> +<p> + Why should there not be a patient confidence in the ultimate justice + of the people? Is there any better or equal hope in the world? In our + present differences, is either party without faith of being in the + right? If the Almighty Ruler of Nations, with His eternal truth and + justice, be on your side of the North, or on yours of the South, that + truth and that justice will surely prevail by the judgment of this great + tribunal of the American people. +</p> +<p> + By the frame of the Government under which we live this same people have + wisely given their public servants but little power for mischief, and + have with equal wisdom provided for the return of that little to their + own hands at very short intervals. While the people retain their virtue + and vigilance no Administration by any extreme of wickedness or folly + can very seriously injure the Government in the short space of four + years. +</p> +<p> + My countrymen, one and all, think calmly and <i>well</i> upon this whole + subject. Nothing valuable can be lost by taking time. If there be an + object to <i>hurry</i> any of you in hot haste to a step which you would + never take <i>deliberately</i>, that object will be frustrated by taking + time; but no good object can be frustrated by it. Such of you as are now + dissatisfied still have the old Constitution unimpaired, and, on the + sensitive point, the laws of your own framing under it; while the new + Administration will have no immediate power, if it would, to change + either. If it were admitted that you who are dissatisfied hold the + right side in the dispute, there still is no single good reason for + precipitate action. Intelligence, patriotism, Christianity, and a firm + reliance on Him who has never yet forsaken this favored land are still + competent to adjust in the best way all our present difficulty. +</p> +<p> + In <i>your</i> hands, my dissatisfied fellow-countrymen, and not in <i>mine</i>, + is the momentous issue of civil war. The Government will not assail + <i>you</i>. You can have no conflict without being yourselves the aggressors. + <i>You</i> have no oath registered in heaven to destroy the Government, while + <i>I</i> shall have the most solemn one to "preserve, protect, and defend + it." +</p> +<p> + I am loath to close. We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be + enemies. Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds + of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every + battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all + over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again + touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature. +</p> +<p> + MARCH 4, 1861. +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0004"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + SPECIAL MESSAGES. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 16, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate</i>: +</p> +<p> + The Senate has transmitted to me a copy of the message sent by my + predecessor to that body on the 21st day of February last, proposing to + take its advice on the subject of a proposition made by the British + Government through its minister here to refer the matter in controversy + between that Government and the Government of the United States to the + arbitrament of the King of Sweden and Norway, the King of the + Netherlands, or the Republic of the Swiss Confederation. +</p> +<p> + In that message my predecessor stated that he wished to submit to the + Senate the precise questions following, namely: +</p> +<p class="q"> + Will the Senate approve a treaty referring to either of the sovereign + powers above named the dispute now existing between the Governments of + the United States and Great Britain concerning the boundary line between + Vancouvers Island and the American continent? In case the referee shall + find himself unable to decide where the line is by the description of it + in the treaty of 15th June, 1846, shall he be authorized to establish a + line according to the treaty as nearly as possible? Which of the three + powers named by Great Britain as an arbiter shall be chosen by the + United States? +</p> +<p> + I find no reason to disapprove of the course of my predecessor in this + important matter, but, on the contrary, I not only shall receive the + advice of the Senate therein cheerfully, but I respectfully ask the + Senate for their advice on the three questions before recited. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 26, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I have received a copy of a resolution of the Senate passed on the + 25th instant, requesting me, if in my opinion not incompatible with the + public interest, to communicate to the Senate the dispatches of Major + Robert Anderson to the War Department during the time he has been in + command of Fort Sumter. +</p> +<p> + On examining the correspondence thus called for I have, with the highest + respect for the Senate, come to the conclusion that at the present + moment the publication of it would be inexpedient. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0005"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + PROCLAMATIONS. +</h2> +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas the laws of the United States have been for some time past and + now are opposed and the execution thereof obstructed in the States of + South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, and + Texas by combinations too powerful to be suppressed by the ordinary + course of judicial proceedings or by the powers vested in the marshals + by law: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, in + virtue of the power in me vested by the Constitution and the laws, have + thought fit to call forth, and hereby do call forth, the militia of the + several States of the Union to the aggregate number of 75,000, in order + to suppress said combinations and to cause the laws to be duly executed. +</p> +<p> + The details for this object will be immediately communicated to the + State authorities through the War Department. +</p> +<p> + I appeal to all loyal citizens to favor, facilitate, and aid this effort + to maintain the honor, the integrity, and the existence of our National + Union and the perpetuity of popular government and to redress wrongs + already long enough endured. +</p> +<p> + I deem it proper to say that the first service assigned to the forces + hereby called forth will probably be to repossess the forts, places, and + property which have been seized from the Union; and in every event the + utmost care will be observed, consistently with the objects aforesaid, + to avoid any devastation, any destruction of or interference with + property, or any disturbance of peaceful citizens in any part of the + country. +</p> +<p> + And I hereby command the persons composing the combinations aforesaid to + disperse and retire peaceably to their respective abodes within twenty + days from this date. +</p> +<p> + Deeming that the present condition of public affairs presents an + extraordinary occasion, I do hereby, in virtue of the power in me vested + by the Constitution, convene both Houses of Congress. Senators and + Representatives are therefore summoned to assemble at their respective + chambers at 12 o'clock noon on Thursday, the 4th day of July next, then + and there to consider and determine such measures as, in their wisdom, + the public safety and interest may seem to demand. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 15th day of April, A.D. 1861, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty-fifth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas an insurrection against the Government of the United States has + broken out in the States of South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, + Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas, and the laws of the United States for + the collection of the revenue can not be effectually executed therein + conformably to that provision of the Constitution which requires duties + to be uniform throughout the United States; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas a combination of persons engaged in such insurrection have + threatened to grant pretended letters of marque to authorize the bearers + thereof to commit assaults on the lives, vessels, and property of good + citizens of the country lawfully engaged in commerce on the high seas + and in waters of the United States; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas an Executive proclamation has been already issued requiring the + persons engaged in these disorderly proceedings to desist therefrom, + calling out a militia force for the purpose of repressing the same, and + convening Congress in extraordinary session to deliberate and determine + thereon: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, + with a view to the same purposes before mentioned and to the protection + of the public peace and the lives and property of quiet and orderly + citizens pursuing their lawful occupations, until Congress shall have + assembled and deliberated on the said unlawful proceedings or until the + same shall have ceased, have further deemed it advisable to set on foot + a blockade of the ports within the States aforesaid, in pursuance of + the laws of the United States and of the law of nations in such case + provided. For this purpose a competent force will be posted so as to + prevent entrance and exit of vessels from the ports aforesaid. If, + therefore, with a view to violate such blockade, a vessel shall approach + or shall attempt to leave either of the said ports, she will be duly + warned by the commander of one of the blockading vessels, who will + indorse on her register the fact and date of such warning, and if the + same vessel shall again attempt to enter or leave the blockaded port + she will be captured and sent to the nearest convenient port for such + proceedings against her and her cargo as prize as may be deemed + advisable. +</p> +<p> + And I hereby proclaim and declare that if any person, under the + pretended authority of the said States or under any other pretense, + shall molest a vessel of the United States or the persons or cargo on + board of her, such person will be held amenable to the laws of the + United States for the prevention and punishment of piracy. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 19th day of April, A.D. 1861, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty-fifth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas, for the reasons assigned in my proclamation of the 19th + instant, a blockade of the ports of the States of South Carolina, + Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas was ordered + to be established; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas since that date public property of the United States has been + seized, the collection of the revenue obstructed, and duly commissioned + officers of the United States, while engaged in executing the orders of + their superiors, have been arrested and held in custody as prisoners or + have been impeded in the discharge of their official duties, without due + legal process, by persons claiming to act under authorities of the + States of Virginia and North Carolina, an efficient blockade of the + ports of those States will also be established. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 27th day of April, A.D. 1861, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty-fifth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas existing exigencies demand immediate and adequate measures for + the protection of the National Constitution and the preservation of the + National Union by the suppression of the insurrectionary combinations + now existing in several States for opposing the laws of the Union and + obstructing the execution thereof, to which end a military force in + addition to that called forth by my proclamation of the 15th day of + April in the present year appears to be indispensably necessary: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States and + Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy thereof and of the militia of + the several States when called into actual service, do hereby call into + the service of the United States 42,034 volunteers to serve for the + period of three years, unless sooner discharged, and to be mustered into + service as infantry and cavalry. The proportions of each arm and the + details of enrollment and organization will be made known through the + Department of War. +</p> +<p> + And I also direct that the Regular Army of the United States be + increased by the addition of eight regiments of infantry, one regiment + of cavalry, and one regiment of artillery, making altogether a maximum + aggregate increase of 22,714 officers and enlisted men, the details of + which increase will also be made known through the Department of War. +</p> +<p> + And I further direct the enlistment for not less than one or more than + three years of 18,000 seamen, in addition to the present force, for the + naval service of the United States. The details of the enlistment and + organization will be made known through the Department of the Navy. +</p> +<p> + The call for volunteers hereby made and the direction for the increase + of the Regular Army and for the enlistment of seamen hereby given, + together with the plan of organization adopted for the volunteer and for + the regular forces hereby authorized, will be submitted to Congress as + soon as assembled. +</p> +<p> + In the meantime I earnestly invoke the cooperation of all good citizens + in the measures hereby adopted for the effectual suppression of unlawful + violence, for the impartial enforcement of constitutional laws, and for + the speediest possible restoration of peace and order, and with these of + happiness and prosperity, throughout our country. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 3d day of May, A.D. 1861, and of + the Independence of the United States the eighty-fifth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas an insurrection exists in the State of Florida by which the + lives, liberty, and property of loyal citizens of the United States are + endangered; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas it is deemed proper that all needful measures should be taken + for the protection of such citizens and all officers of the United + States in the discharge of their public duties in the State aforesaid: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States, do hereby direct the commander of the forces of the + United States on the Florida coast to permit no person to exercise any + office or authority upon the islands of Key West, the Tortugas, and + Santa Rosa which may be inconsistent with the laws and Constitution of + the United States, authorizing him at the same time, if he shall find it + necessary, to suspend there the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> and to remove + from the vicinity of the United States fortresses all dangerous or + suspected persons. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 10th day of May, A.D. 1861, and of + the Independence of the United States the eighty-fifth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0006"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + EXECUTIVE ORDERS. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 25, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + Lieutenant-General SCOTT. +</p> +<p> + MY DEAR SIR: The Maryland legislature assembles to-morrow at Annapolis, + and not improbably will take action to arm the people of that State + against the United States. The question has been submitted to and + considered by me whether it would not be justifiable, upon the ground of + necessary defense, for you, as General in Chief of the United States + Army, to arrest or disperse the members of that body. I think it would + not be justifiable nor efficient for the desired object. +</p> +<p> + First. They have a clearly legal right to assemble, and we can not know + in advance that their action will not be lawful and peaceful, and if we + wait until they shall have acted their arrest or dispersion will not + lessen the effect of their action. +</p> +<p> + Secondly. We can not permanently prevent their action. If we arrest + them, we can not long hold them as prisoners, and when liberated they + will immediately reassemble and take their action; and precisely the + same if we simply disperse them—they will immediately reassemble in + some other place. +</p> +<p> + I therefore conclude that it is only left to the Commanding General to + watch and await their action, which, if it shall be to arm their people + against the United States, he is to adopt the most prompt and efficient + means to counteract, even, if necessary, to the bombardment of their + cities and, in the extremest necessity, the suspension of the writ of + <i>habeas corpus</i>. +</p> +<p> + Your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p> + The COMMANDING GENERAL OF THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES: +</p> +<p> + You are engaged in suppressing an insurrection against the laws of the + United States. If at any point on or in the vicinity of any military + line which is now or which shall be used between the city of + Philadelphia and the city of Washington you find resistance which + renders it necessary to suspend the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> for the + public safety, you personally, or through the officer in command at the + point where resistance occurs, are authorized to suspend that writ. +</p> +<p> + Given under my hand and the seal of the United States, at the city of + Washington, this 27th day of April, 1861, and of the Independence of the + United States the eighty-fifth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p><br> +By the President of the United States:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 13. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, April 30, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + The President directs that all officers of the Army, except those who + have entered the service since the 1st instant, take and subscribe anew + the oath of allegiance to the United States of America, as set forth in + the tenth article of war. +</p> +<p> + Commanding officers will see to the prompt execution of this order, and + report accordingly. +</p> +<p> + By order: +</p> +<p class="r"> +L. THOMAS,<br> + <i>Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To all who shall see these presents, greeting</i>: +</p> +<p> + Know ye that, reposing special trust and confidence in the patriotism, + valor, fidelity, and ability of Colonel Robert Anderson, United States + Army, I have empowered him, and do hereby empower him, to receive into + the Army of the United States as many regiments of volunteer troops from + the State of Kentucky and from the western part of the State of Virginia + as shall be willing to engage in the service of the United States for + the term of three years upon the terms and according to the plan + proposed by the proclamation of May 3, 1861, and General Orders, No. 15, + from the War Department, of May 4, 1861. +</p> +<p> + The troops whom he receives shall be on the same footing in every + respect as those of the like kind called for in the proclamation above + cited, except that the officers shall be commissioned by the United + States. He is therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the duty + hereby devolved upon him by doing and performing all manner of things + thereunto belonging. +</p> +<p> + Given under my hand, at the city of Washington, this 7th day of May, + A.D. 1861, and in the eighty-fifth year of the Independence of the + United States. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + SIMON CAMERON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + STATE DEPARTMENT, <i>June 20, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + The LIEUTENANT-GENERAL COMMANDING THE ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES: +</p> +<p> + You or any officer you may designate will, in your discretion, suspend + the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> so far as may relate to Major Chase, lately + of the Engineer Corps of the Army of the United States, now alleged to + be guilty of treasonable practices against this Government. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p> + The COMMANDING GENERAL, ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES: +</p> +<p> + You are engaged in suppressing an insurrection against the laws of the + United States. If at any point on or in the vicinity of any military + line which is now or which shall be used between the city of New York + and the city of Washington you find resistance which renders it + necessary to suspend the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> for the public safety, + you personally, or through the officer in command at the point where + resistance occurs, are authorized to suspend that writ. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Given under my hand and the seal of the United States, at the city of + Washington, this 2d day of July, A.D. 1861, and of the Independence of + the United States the eighty-fifth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0007"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + SPECIAL SESSION MESSAGE. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + JULY 4, 1861. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + Having been convened on an extraordinary occasion, as authorized by the + Constitution, your attention is not called to any ordinary subject of + legislation. +</p> +<p> + At the beginning of the present Presidential term, four months ago, the + functions of the Federal Government were found to be generally suspended + within the several States of South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, + Mississippi, Louisiana, and Florida, excepting only those of the + Post-Office Department. +</p> +<p> + Within these States all the forts, arsenals, dockyards, custom-houses, + and the like, including the movable and stationary property in and + about them, had been seized and were held in open hostility to this + Government, excepting only Forts Pickens, Taylor, and Jefferson, on and + near the Florida coast, and Fort Sumter, in Charleston Harbor, South + Carolina. The forts thus seized had been put in improved condition, + new ones had been built, and armed forces had been organized and were + organizing, all avowedly with the same hostile purpose. +</p> +<p> + The forts remaining in the possession of the Federal Government in + and near these States were either besieged or menaced by warlike + preparations, and especially Fort Sumter was nearly surrounded by + well-protected hostile batteries, with guns equal in quality to the + best of its own and outnumbering the latter as perhaps ten to one. A + disproportionate share of the Federal muskets and rifles had somehow + found their way into these States, and had been seized to be used + against the Government. Accumulations of the public revenue lying within + them had been seized for the same object. The Navy was scattered in + distant seas, leaving but a very small part of it within the immediate + reach of the Government. Officers of the Federal Army and Navy had + resigned in great numbers, and of those resigning a large proportion had + taken up arms against the Government. Simultaneously and in connection + with all this the purpose to sever the Federal Union was openly avowed. + In accordance with this purpose, an ordinance had been adopted in each + of these States declaring the States respectively to be separated from + the National Union. A formula for instituting a combined government of + these States had been promulgated, and this illegal organization, in the + character of Confederate States, was already invoking recognition, aid, + and intervention from foreign powers. +</p> +<p> + Finding this condition of things and believing it to be an imperative + duty upon the incoming Executive to prevent, if possible, the + consummation of such attempt to destroy the Federal Union, a choice of + means to that end became indispensable. This choice was made, and was + declared in the inaugural address. The policy chosen looked to the + exhaustion of all peaceful measures before a resort to any stronger + ones. It sought only to hold the public places and property not already + wrested from the Government and to collect the revenue, relying for the + rest on time, discussion, and the ballot box. It promised a continuance + of the mails at Government expense to the very people who were resisting + the Government, and it gave repeated pledges against any disturbance to + any of the people or any of their rights. Of all that which a President + might constitutionally and justifiably do in such a case, everything was + forborne without which it was believed possible to keep the Government + on foot. +</p> +<p> + On the 5th of March, the present incumbent's first full day in office, + a letter of Major Anderson, commanding at Fort Sumter, written on the + 28th of February and received at the War Department on the 4th of March, + was by that Department placed in his hands. This letter expressed the + professional opinion of the writer that reenforcements could not be + thrown into that fort within the time for his relief rendered necessary + by the limited supply of provisions, and with a view of holding + possession of the same, with a force of less than 20,000 good and + well-disciplined men. This opinion was concurred in by all the officers + of his command, and their memoranda on the subject were made inclosures + of Major Anderson's letter. The whole was immediately laid before + Lieutenant-General Scott, who at once concurred with Major Anderson in + opinion. On reflection, however, he took full time, consulting with + other officers, both of the Army and the Navy, and at the end of four + days came reluctantly, but decidedly, to the same conclusion as before. + He also stated at the same time that no such sufficient force was then + at the control of the Government or could be raised and brought to + the ground within the time when the provisions in the fort would be + exhausted. In a purely military point of view this reduced the duty + of the Administration in the case to the mere matter of getting the + garrison safely out of the fort. +</p> +<p> + It was believed, however, that to so abandon that position under the + circumstances would be utterly ruinous; that the <i>necessity</i> under which + it was to be done would not be fully understood; that by many it would + be construed as a part of a <i>voluntary</i> policy; that at home it would + discourage the friends of the Union, embolden its adversaries, and go + far to insure to the latter a recognition abroad; that, in fact, it + would be our national destruction consummated. This could not be + allowed. Starvation was not yet upon the garrison, and ere it would be + reached <i>Fort Pickens</i> might be reenforced. This last would be a clear + indication of <i>policy</i>, and would better enable the country to accept + the evacuation of Fort Sumter as a military <i>necessity</i>. An order was + at once directed to be sent for the landing of the troops from the + steamship <i>Brooklyn</i> into Fort Pickens. This order could not go by land, + but must take the longer and slower route by sea. The first return news + from the order was received just one week before the fall of Fort + Sumter. The news itself was that the officer commanding the <i>Sabine</i>, + to which vessel the troops had been transferred from the <i>Brooklyn</i>, + acting upon some <i>quasi</i> armistice of the late Administration (and of + the existence of which the present Administration, up to the time the + order was dispatched, had only too vague and uncertain rumors to fix + attention), had refused to land the troops. To now reenforce Fort + Pickens before a crisis would be reached at Fort Sumter was impossible, + rendered so by the near exhaustion of provisions in the latter-named + fort. In precaution against such a conjuncture the Government had a + few days before commenced preparing an expedition, as well adapted as + might be, to relieve Fort Sumter, which expedition was intended to + be ultimately used or not, according to circumstances. The strongest + anticipated case for using it was now presented, and it was resolved to + send it forward. As had been intended in this contingency, it was also + resolved to notify the governor of South Carolina that he might expect + an attempt would be made to provision the fort, and that if the attempt + should not be resisted there would be no effort to throw in men, arms, + or ammunition without further notice, or in case of an attack upon the + fort. This notice was accordingly given, whereupon the fort was attacked + and bombarded to its fall, without even awaiting the arrival of the + provisioning expedition. +</p> +<p> + It is thus seen that the assault upon and reduction of Fort Sumter was + in no sense a matter of self-defense on the part of the assailants. They + well knew that the garrison in the fort could by no possibility commit + aggression upon them. They knew—they were expressly notified—that the + giving of bread to the few brave and hungry men of the garrison was + all which would on that occasion be attempted, unless themselves, by + resisting so much, should provoke more. They knew that this Government + desired to keep the garrison in the fort, not to assail them, but merely + to maintain visible possession, and thus to preserve the Union from + actual and immediate dissolution, trusting, as hereinbefore stated, to + time, discussion, and the ballot box for final adjustment; and they + assailed and reduced the fort for precisely the reverse object—to drive + out the visible authority of the Federal Union, and thus force it to + immediate dissolution. That this was their object the Executive well + understood; and having said to them in the inaugural address, "You can + have no conflict without being yourselves the aggressors," he took pains + not only to keep this declaration good, but also to keep the case so + free from the power of ingenious sophistry as that the world should not + be able to misunderstand it. By the affair at Fort Sumter, with its + surrounding circumstances, that point was reached. Then and thereby the + assailants of the Government began the conflict of arms, without a gun + in sight or in expectancy to return their fire, save only the few in the + fort, sent to that harbor years before for their own protection, and + still ready to give that protection in whatever was lawful. In this act, + discarding all else, they have forced upon the country the distinct + issue, "Immediate dissolution or blood." +</p> +<p> + And this issue embraces more than the fate of these United States. + It presents to the whole family of man the question whether a + constitutional republic, or democracy—a government of the people by the + same people—can or can not maintain its territorial integrity against + its own domestic foes. It presents the question whether discontented + individuals, too few in numbers to control administration according to + organic law in any case, can always, upon the pretenses made in this + case, or on any other pretenses, or arbitrarily without any pretense, + break up their government, and thus practically put an end to free + government upon the earth. It forces us to ask, Is there in all + republics this inherent and fatal weakness? Must a government of + necessity be too <i>strong</i> for the liberties of its own people, or + too <i>weak</i> to maintain its own existence? +</p> +<p> + So viewing the issue, no choice was left but to call out the war power + of the Government and so to resist force employed for its destruction + by force for its preservation. +</p> +<p> + The call was made, and the response of the country was most gratifying, + surpassing in unanimity and spirit the most sanguine expectation. Yet + none of the States commonly called slave States, except Delaware, gave a + regiment through regular State organization. A few regiments have been + organized within some others of those States by individual enterprise + and received into the Government service. Of course the seceded States, + so called (and to which Texas had been joined about the time of the + inauguration), gave no troops to the cause of the Union. The border + States, so called, were not uniform in their action, some of them being + almost <i>for</i> the Union, while in others, as Virginia, North Carolina, + Tennessee, and Arkansas, the Union sentiment was nearly repressed and + silenced. The course taken in Virginia was the most remarkable, perhaps + the most important. A convention elected by the people of that State + to consider this very question of disrupting the Federal Union was in + session at the capital of Virginia when Fort Sumter fell. To this body + the people had chosen a large majority of <i>professed</i> Union men. Almost + immediately after the fall of Sumter many members of that majority went + over to the original disunion minority, and with them adopted an + ordinance for withdrawing the State from the Union. Whether this change + was wrought by their great approval of the assault upon Sumter or their + great resentment at the Government's resistance to that assault is not + definitely known. Although they submitted the ordinance for ratification + to a vote of the people, to be taken on a day then somewhat more than + a month distant, the convention and the legislature (which was also in + session at the same time and place), with leading men of the State not + members of either, immediately commenced acting as if the State were + already out of the Union. They pushed military preparations vigorously + forward all over the State. They seized the United States armory + at Harpers Ferry and the navy-yard at Gosport, near Norfolk. They + received—perhaps invited—into their State large bodies of troops, + with their warlike appointments, from the so-called seceded States. + They formally entered into a treaty of temporary alliance and + cooperation with the so-called "Confederate States," and sent members + to their congress at Montgomery; and, finally, they permitted the + insurrectionary government to be transferred to their capital at Richmond. +</p> +<p> + The people of Virginia have thus allowed this giant insurrection to make + its nest within her borders, and this Government has no choice left but + to deal with it <i>where</i> it finds it; and it has the less regret, as the + loyal citizens have in due form claimed its protection. Those loyal + citizens this Government is bound to recognize and protect, as being + Virginia. +</p> +<p> + In the border States, so called—in fact, the Middle States—there are + those who favor a policy which they call "armed neutrality;" that is, + an arming of those States to prevent the Union forces passing one way + or the disunion the other over their soil. This would be disunion + completed. Figuratively speaking, it would be the building of an + impassable wall along the line of separation, and yet not quite an + impassable one, for, under the guise of neutrality, it would tie the + hands of the Union men and freely pass supplies from among them to the + insurrectionists, which it could not do as an open enemy. At a stroke it + would take all the trouble off the hands of secession, except only what + proceeds from the external blockade. It would do for the disunionists + that which of all things they most desire—feed them well and give them + disunion without a struggle of their own. It recognizes no fidelity to + the Constitution, no obligation to maintain the Union; and while very + many who have favored it are doubtless loyal citizens, it is, + nevertheless, very injurious in effect. +</p> +<p> + Recurring to the action of the Government, it may be stated that at + first a call was made for 75,000 militia, and rapidly following this a + proclamation was issued for closing the ports of the insurrectionary + districts by proceedings in the nature of blockade. So far all was + believed to be strictly legal. At this point the insurrectionists + announced their purpose to enter upon the practice of privateering. +</p> +<p> + Other calls were made for volunteers to serve three years unless sooner + discharged, and also for large additions to the Regular Army and Navy. + These measures, whether strictly legal or not, were ventured upon under + what appeared to be a popular demand and a public necessity, trusting + then, as now, that Congress would readily ratify them. It is believed + that nothing has been done beyond the constitutional competency of + Congress. +</p> +<p> + Soon after the first call for militia it was considered a duty to + authorize the Commanding General in proper cases, according to his + discretion, to suspend the privilege of the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i>, + or, in other words, to arrest and detain without resort to the ordinary + processes and forms of law such individuals as he might deem dangerous + to the public safety. This authority has purposely been exercised but + very sparingly. Nevertheless, the legality and propriety of what has + been done under it are questioned, and the attention of the country has + been called to the proposition that one who is sworn to "take care that + the laws be faithfully executed" should not himself violate them. Of + course some consideration was given to the questions of power and + propriety before this matter was acted upon. The whole of the laws which + were required to be faithfully executed were being resisted and failing + of execution in nearly one-third of the States. Must they be allowed to + finally fail of execution, even had it been perfectly clear that by the + use of the means necessary to their execution some single law, made in + such extreme tenderness of the citizen's liberty that practically it + relieves more of the guilty than of the innocent, should to a very + limited extent be violated? To state the question more directly, Are + all the laws <i>but one</i> to go unexecuted, and the Government itself go + to pieces lest that one be violated? Even in such a case, would not the + official oath be broken if the Government should be overthrown when it + was believed that disregarding the single law would tend to preserve it? + But it was not believed that this question was presented. It was not + believed that any law was violated. The provision of the Constitution + that "the privilege of the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> shall not be + suspended unless when, in cases of rebellion or invasion, the public + safety may require it" is equivalent to a provision—is a + provision—that such privilege may be suspended when, in cases of + rebellion or invasion, the public safety <i>does</i> require it. It was + decided that we have a case of rebellion and that the public safety does + require the qualified suspension of the privilege of the writ which was + authorized to be made. Now it is insisted that Congress, and not the + Executive, is vested with this power; but the Constitution itself is + silent as to which or who is to exercise the power; and as the provision + was plainly made for a dangerous emergency, it can not be believed the + framers of the instrument intended that in every case the danger should + run its course until Congress could be called together, the very + assembling of which might be prevented, as was intended in this case, + by the rebellion. +</p> +<p> + No more extended argument is now offered, as an opinion at some length + will probably be presented by the Attorney-General. Whether there shall + be any legislation upon the subject, and, if any, what, is submitted + entirely to the better judgment of Congress. +</p> +<p> + The forbearance of this Government had been so extraordinary and so long + continued as to lead some foreign nations to shape their action as if + they supposed the early destruction of our National Union was probable. + While this on discovery gave the Executive some concern, he is now happy + to say that the sovereignty and rights of the United States are now + everywhere practically respected by foreign powers, and a general + sympathy with the country is manifested throughout the world. +</p> +<p> + The reports of the Secretaries of the Treasury, War, and the Navy will + give the information in detail deemed necessary and convenient for your + deliberation and action, while the Executive and all the Departments + will stand ready to supply omissions or to communicate new facts + considered important for you to know. +</p> +<p> + It is now recommended that you give the legal means for making this + contest a short and a decisive one; that you place at the control of the + Government for the work at least 400,000 men and $400,000,000. That + number of men is about one-tenth of those of proper ages within the + regions where apparently <i>all</i> are willing to engage, and the sum is + less than a twenty-third part of the money value owned by the men who + seem ready to devote the whole. A debt of $600,000,000 <i>now</i> is a less + sum per head than was the debt of our Revolution when we came out of + that struggle, and the money value in the country now bears even a + greater proportion to what it was <i>then</i> than does the population. + Surely each man has as strong a motive <i>now</i> to <i>preserve</i> our liberties + as each had <i>then</i> to <i>establish</i> them. +</p> +<p> + A right result at this time will be worth more to the world than ten + times the men and ten times the money. The evidence reaching us from the + country leaves no doubt that the material for the work is abundant, and + that it needs only the hand of legislation to give it legal sanction and + the hand of the Executive to give it practical shape and efficiency. One + of the greatest perplexities of the Government is to avoid receiving + troops faster than it can provide for them. In a word, the people will + save their Government if the Government itself will do its part only + indifferently well. +</p> +<p> + It might seem at first thought to be of little difference whether the + present movement at the South be called "secession" or "rebellion." The + movers, however, well understand the difference. At the beginning they + knew they could never raise their treason to any respectable magnitude + by any name which implies <i>violation</i> of law. They knew their people + possessed as much of moral sense, as much of devotion to law and order, + and as much pride in and reverence for the history and Government of + their common country as any other civilized and patriotic people. They + knew they could make no advancement directly in the teeth of these + strong and noble sentiments. Accordingly, they commenced by an insidious + debauching of the public mind. They invented an ingenious sophism, + which, if conceded, was followed by perfectly logical steps through all + the incidents to the complete destruction of the Union. The sophism + itself is that any State of the Union may <i>consistently</i> with the + National Constitution, and therefore <i>lawfully</i> and <i>peacefully</i>, + withdraw from the Union without the consent of the Union or of any other + State. The little disguise that the supposed right is to be exercised + only for just cause, themselves to be the sole judge of its justice, + is too thin to merit any notice. +</p> +<p> + With rebellion thus sugar coated they have been drugging the public mind + of their section for more than thirty years, and until at length they + have brought many good men to a willingness to take up arms against the + Government the day <i>after</i> some assemblage of men have enacted the + farcical pretense of taking their State out of the Union who could have + been brought to no such thing the day <i>before</i>. +</p> +<p> + This sophism derives much, perhaps the whole, of its currency from the + assumption that there is some omnipotent and sacred supremacy pertaining + to a <i>State</i>—to each State of our Federal Union. Our States have + neither more nor less power than that reserved to them in the Union by + the Constitution, no one of them ever having been a State <i>out</i> of the + Union. The original ones passed into the Union even <i>before</i> they cast + off their British colonial dependence, and the new ones each came into + the Union directly from a condition of dependence, excepting Texas; and + even Texas, in its temporary independence, was never designated a State. + The new ones only took the designation of States on coming into the + Union, while that name was first adopted for the old ones in and by the + Declaration of Independence. Therein the "United Colonies" were declared + to be "free and independent States;" but even then the object plainly + was not to declare their independence of <i>one another</i> or of the + <i>Union</i>, but directly the contrary, as their mutual pledge and their + mutual action before, at the time, and afterwards abundantly show. The + express plighting of faith by each and all of the original thirteen in + the Articles of Confederation, two years later, that the Union shall be + perpetual is most conclusive. Having never been States, either in + substance or in name, <i>outside</i> of the Union, whence this magical + omnipotence of "State rights," asserting a claim of power to lawfully + destroy the Union itself? Much is said about the "sovereignty" of the + States, but the word even is not in the National Constitution, nor, as + is believed, in any of the State constitutions. What is a "sovereignty" + in the political sense of the term? Would it be far wrong to define it + "a political community without a political superior"? Tested by this, + no one of our States, except Texas, ever was a sovereignty; and even + Texas gave up the character on coming into the Union, by which act she + acknowledged the Constitution of the United States and the laws and + treaties of the United States made in pursuance of the Constitution to + be for her the supreme law of the land. The States have their status in + the Union, and they have no other legal status. If they break from this, + they can only do so against law and by revolution. The Union, and not + themselves separately, procured their independence and their liberty. + By conquest or purchase the Union gave each of them whatever of + independence and liberty it has. The Union is older than any of the + States, and, in fact, it created them as States. Originally some + dependent colonies made the Union, and in turn the Union threw off their + old dependence for them and made them States, such as they are. Not + one of them ever had a State constitution independent of the Union. + Of course it is not forgotten that all the new States framed their + constitutions before they entered the Union, nevertheless dependent + upon and preparatory to coming into the Union. +</p> +<p> + Unquestionably the States have the powers and rights reserved to them + in and by the National Constitution; but among these surely are not + included all conceivable powers, however mischievous or destructive, but + at most such only as were known in the world at the time as governmental + powers; and certainly a power to destroy the Government itself had never + been known as a governmental—as a merely administrative power. This + relative matter of national power and State rights, as a principle, is + no other than the principle of <i>generality</i> and <i>locality</i>. Whatever + concerns the whole should be confided to the whole—to the General + Government—while whatever concerns <i>only</i> the State should be left + exclusively to the State. This is all there is of original principle + about it. Whether the National Constitution in defining boundaries + between the two has applied the principle with exact accuracy is not + to be questioned. We are all bound by that defining without question. +</p> +<p> + What is now combated is the position that secession is <i>consistent</i> with + the Constitution—is <i>lawful</i> and <i>peaceful</i>. It is not contended that + there is any express law for it, and nothing should ever be implied as + law which leads to unjust or absurd consequences. The nation purchased + with money the countries out of which several of these States were + formed. Is it just that they shall go off without leave and without + refunding? The nation paid very large sums (in the aggregate, I believe, + nearly a hundred millions) to relieve Florida of the aboriginal tribes. + Is it just that she shall now be off without consent or without making + any return? The nation is now in debt for money applied to the benefit + of these so-called seceding States in common with the rest. Is it just + either that creditors shall go unpaid or the remaining States pay the + whole? A part of the present national debt was contracted to pay the old + debts of Texas. Is it just that she shall leave and pay no part of this + herself? +</p> +<p> + Again: If one State may secede, so may another; and when all shall have + seceded none is left to pay the debts. Is this quite just to creditors? + Did we notify them of this sage view of ours when we borrowed their + money? If we now recognize this doctrine by allowing the seceders to go + in peace, it is difficult to see what we can do if others choose to go + or to extort terms upon which they will promise to remain. +</p> +<p> + The seceders insist that our Constitution admits of secession. They + have assumed to make a national constitution of their own, in which + of necessity they have either <i>discarded</i> or <i>retained</i> the right of + secession, as they insist it exists in ours. If they have discarded it, + they thereby admit that on principle it ought not to be in ours. If they + have retained it, by their own construction of ours they show that to be + consistent they must secede from one another whenever they shall find it + the easiest way of settling their debts or effecting any other selfish + or unjust object. The principle itself is one of disintegration, and + upon which no government can possibly endure. +</p> +<p> + If all the States save one should assert the power to <i>drive</i> that one + out of the Union, it is presumed the whole class of seceder politicians + would at once deny the power and denounce the act as the greatest + outrage upon State rights. But suppose that precisely the same act, + instead of being called "driving the one out," should be called "the + seceding of the others from that one," it would be exactly what the + seceders claim to do, unless, indeed, they make the point that the one, + because it is a minority, may rightfully do what the others, because + they are a majority, may not rightfully do. These politicians are subtle + and profound on the rights of minorities. They are not partial to that + power which made the Constitution and speaks from the preamble, calling + itself "we, the people." +</p> +<p> + It may well be questioned whether there is to-day a majority of the + legally qualified voters of any State, except, perhaps, South Carolina, + in favor of disunion. There is much reason to believe that the Union men + are the majority in many, if not in every other one, of the so-called + seceded States. The contrary has not been demonstrated in any one of + them. It is ventured to affirm this even of Virginia and Tennessee; for + the result of an election held in military camps, where the bayonets are + all on one side of the question voted upon, can scarcely be considered + as demonstrating popular sentiment. At such an election all that large + class who are at once, <i>for</i> the Union and <i>against</i> coercion would be + coerced to vote against the Union. +</p> +<p> + It may be affirmed without extravagance that the free institutions we + enjoy have developed the powers and improved the condition of our whole + people beyond any example in the world. Of this we now have a striking + and an impressive illustration. So large an army as the Government has + now on foot was never before known without a soldier in it but who had + taken his place there of his own free choice. But more than this, there + are many single regiments whose members, one and another, possess full + practical knowledge of all the arts, sciences, professions, and whatever + else, whether useful or elegant, is known in the world; and there is + scarcely one from which there could not be selected a President, a + Cabinet, a Congress, and perhaps a court, abundantly competent to + administer the Government itself. Nor do I say this is not true also in + the army of our late friends, now adversaries in this contest; but if + it is, so much better the reason why the Government which has conferred + such benefits on both them and us should not be broken up. Whoever in + any section proposes to abandon such a government would do well to + consider in deference to what principle it is that he does it; what + better he is likely to get in its stead; whether the substitute will + give, or be intended to give, so much of good to the people. There are + some foreshadowings on this subject. Our adversaries have adopted some + declarations of independence in which, unlike the good old one penned by + Jefferson, they omit the words "all men are created equal." Why? They + have adopted a temporary national constitution, in the preamble of + which, unlike our good old one signed by Washington, they omit "We, + the people," and substitute "We, the deputies of the sovereign and + independent States." Why? Why this deliberate pressing out of view + the rights of men and the authority of the people? +</p> +<p> + This is essentially a people's contest. On the side of the Union it + is a struggle for maintaining in the world that form and substance of + government whose leading object is to elevate the condition of men; + to lift artificial weights from all shoulders; to clear the paths of + laudable pursuit for all; to afford all an unfettered start and a + fair chance in the race of life. Yielding to partial and temporary + departures, from necessity, this is the leading object of the Government + for whose existence we contend. +</p> +<p> + I am most happy to believe that the plain people understand and + appreciate this. It is worthy of note that while in this the + Government's hour of trial large numbers of those in the Army and Navy + who have been favored with the offices have resigned and proved false + to the hand which had pampered them, not one common soldier or common + sailor is known to have deserted his flag. +</p> +<p> + Great honor is due to those officers who remained true despite the + example of their treacherous associates; but the greatest honor and + most important fact of all is the unanimous firmness of the common + soldiers and common sailors. To the last man, so far as known, they + have successfully resisted the traitorous efforts of those whose + commands but an hour before they obeyed as absolute law. This is the + patriotic instinct of plain people. They understand without an argument + that the destroying the Government which was made by Washington means + no good to them. +</p> +<p> + Our popular Government has often been called an experiment. Two points + in it our people have already settled—the successful <i>establishing</i> and + the successful <i>administering</i> of it. One still remains—its successful + <i>maintenance</i> against a formidable internal attempt to overthrow it. It + is now for them to demonstrate to the world that those who can fairly + carry an election can also suppress a rebellion; that ballots are the + rightful and peaceful successors of bullets, and that when ballots have + fairly and constitutionally decided there can be no successful appeal + back to bullets; that there can be no successful appeal except to + ballots themselves at succeeding elections. Such will be a great lesson + of peace, teaching men that what they can not take by an election + neither can they take it by a war; teaching all the folly of being the + beginners of a war. +</p> +<p> + Lest there be some uneasiness in the minds of candid men as to what is + to be the course of the Government toward the Southern States <i>after</i> + the rebellion shall have been suppressed, the Executive deems it proper + to say it will be his purpose then, as ever, to be guided by the + Constitution and the laws, and that he probably will have no different + understanding of the powers and duties of the Federal Government + relatively to the rights of the States and the people under the + Constitution than that expressed in the inaugural address. +</p> +<p> + He desires to preserve the Government, that it may be administered + for all as it was administered by the men who made it. Loyal citizens + everywhere have the right to claim this of their government, and the + government has no right to withhold or neglect it. It is not perceived + that in giving it there is any coercion, any conquest, or any + subjugation in any just sense of those terms. +</p> +<p> + The Constitution provides, and all the States have accepted the + provision, that "the United States shall guarantee to every State in + this Union a republican form of government." But if a State may lawfully + go out of the Union, having done so it may also discard the republican + form of government; so that to prevent its going out is an indispensable + <i>means</i> to the <i>end</i> of maintaining the guaranty mentioned; and when an + end is lawful and obligatory the indispensable means to it are also + lawful and obligatory. +</p> +<p> + It was with the deepest regret that the Executive found the duty of + employing the war power in defense of the Government forced upon him. + He could but perform this duty or surrender the existence of the + Government. No compromise by public servants could in this case be a + cure; not that compromises are not often proper, but that no popular + government can long survive a marked precedent that those who carry an + election can only save the government from immediate destruction by + giving up the main point upon which the people gave the election. The + people themselves, and not their servants, can safely reverse their own + deliberate decisions. +</p> +<p> + As a private citizen the Executive could not have consented that these + institutions shall perish; much less could he in betrayal of so vast and + so sacred a trust as these free people had confided to him. He felt that + he had no moral right to shrink, nor even to count the chances of his + own life, in what might follow. In full view of his great responsibility + he has so far done what he has deemed his duty. You will now, according + to your own judgment, perform yours. He sincerely hopes that your views + and your action may so accord with his as to assure all faithful + citizens who have been disturbed in their rights of a certain and speedy + restoration to them under the Constitution and the laws. +</p> +<p> + And having thus chosen our course, without guile and with pure purpose, + let us renew our trust in God and go forward without fear and with manly + hearts. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<a name="2H_4_0008"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + SPECIAL MESSAGES. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 11, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 9th + instant, requesting a copy of correspondence upon the subject of the + incorporation of the Dominican Republic with the Spanish Monarchy, I + transmit a report from the Secretary of State, to whom the resolution + was referred. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 19, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of correspondence between the Secretary + of State and Her Britannic Majesty's envoy extraordinary and minister + plenipotentiary accredited to this Government, relative to an exhibition + of the products of industry of all nations which is to take place at + London in the course of next year. As citizens of the United States may + justly pride themselves upon their proficiency in industrial arts, it is + desirable that they should have proper facilities toward taking part in + the exhibition. With this view I recommend such legislation by Congress + at this session as may be necessary for that purpose. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 19, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for its advice with a view to a formal + execution of the instrument, the draft of a treaty informally agreed + upon between the United States and the Delaware tribe of Indians, + relative to certain lands of that tribe. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 19, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + As the United States have, in common with Great Britain and France, + a deep interest in the preservation and development of the fisheries + adjacent to the northeastern coast and islands of this continent, it + seems proper that we should concert with the Governments of those + countries such measures as may be conducive to those important objects. + With this view I transmit to Congress a copy of a correspondence between + the Secretary of State and the British minister here, in which the + latter proposes on behalf of his Government the appointment of a joint + commission to inquire into the matter, in order that such ulterior + measures may be adopted as may be advisable for the objects proposed. + Such legislation is recommended as may be necessary to enable the + Executive to provide for a commissioner on behalf of the United States. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 25, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 22d + instant, requesting a copy of the correspondence between this Government + and foreign powers with reference to maritime rights, I transmit a + report from the Secretary of State. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 25, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 15th + instant, requesting a copy of the correspondence between this Government + and foreign powers on the subject of the existing insurrection in the + United States, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 27, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 25th instant, relative + to the instructions to the ministers of the United States abroad in + reference to the rebellion now existing in the southern portion of the + Union, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 27, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 24th + instant, asking the grounds, reasons, and evidence upon which the police + commissioners of Baltimore were arrested and are now detained as + prisoners at Fort McHenry, I have to state that it is judged to be + incompatible with the public interest at this time to furnish the + information called for by the resolution. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE OFFICE, <i>July 29, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + Hon. H. HAMLIN, +<br> + <i>President of the Senate</i>. +</p> +<p> + SIR: I transmit herewith, to be laid before the Senate for its + constitutional action thereon, articles of agreement and convention,<a href="#note-1"><small>1</small></a> + with accompanying papers. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + JULY 30, 1861. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 19th instant, requesting + information concerning the <i>quasi</i> armistice alluded to in my message + of the 4th instant,<a href="#note-2"><small>2</small></a> I transmit a report from the Secretary of the Navy. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + JULY 30, 1861. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 23d instant, requesting + information concerning the imprisonment of Lieutenant John J. Worden + [John L. Worden], of the United States Navy, I transmit a report from + the Secretary of the Navy. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>August 1, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I submit herewith, for consideration with a view to ratification, a + postal treaty between the United States of America and the United + Mexican States, concluded by their respective plenipotentiaries on the + 31st ultimo. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>August 2, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the House of Representatives of yesterday, + requesting information regarding the imprisonment of loyal citizens + of the United States by the forces now in rebellion against this + Government, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State and the copy + of a telegraphic dispatch by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + AUGUST 2, 1861 +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + The resolution of your honorable body which is herewith returned has + been submitted to the Secretary of the Navy, who has made the report + upon it which I have the honor to inclose herewith. +</p> +<p> + I have the honor to add that the same rule stated by the Secretary of + the Navy is found in section 5 of the Army Regulations published in + 1861. It certainly is competent for Congress to change this rule by law, + but it is respectfully suggested that a rule of so long standing and of so + extensive application should not be hastily changed, nor by any authority + less than the full lawmaking power. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + NAVY DEPARTMENT, <i>August 2, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</p> +<p> + SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the resolution of + the Senate of the 31st ultimo, in relation to the recent nominations of + lieutenants of marines, which nominations were directed to "be returned + to the President and he be informed that the Senate adhere to the + opinion expressed in the resolution passed by them on the 19th of July + instant, and that the Senate are of opinion that rank and position in + the Army, Navy, or Marine Corps should not be decided by lot, but that, + all other things being equal, preference should be given to age." +</p> +<p> + If I understand correctly the resolution of the Senate, it is an + expression of opinion on the part of that body against the Army + Regulations, which are made applicable to the Marine Corps—regulations + that have been in existence almost from the commencement of the + Government. +</p> +<p> + In the published edition of Army Regulations when Mr. Calhoun was + Secretary of War, section 1, article 3, it is expressly stated that the + questions respecting the rank of officers arising from the sameness of + dates in commissions of the same grade shall be decided, first, by a + reference to the relative rank of the parties in the regular forces + (including the United States Marine Corps) at the time the present + appointments or promotions were made; second, by reference to former + rank therein taken away by derangement or disbandment; third, by + reference to former rank therein given up by resignation; fourth, by + lottery. +</p> +<p> + And in the last edition of Army Regulations, before me, published in + 1857, it is specified in article 2, section 5, that "when commissions + are of the same date the rank is to be decided between officers of the + same regiment or corps by the order of appointment; between officers of + different regiments or corps, first, by rank in actual service when + appointed; second, by former rank and service in the Army or Marine + Corps; third, by lottery among such as have not been in the military + service of the United States." +</p> +<p> + The rule here laid down governed in the appointment of the lieutenants + of marines who have been nominated the present session to the Senate. + Their order of rank was determined by lottery, agreeably to the + published Army Regulations, and applied by those regulations + specifically to the Marine Corps. +</p> +<p> + The gentlemen thus appointed in conformity to regulations have been + mustered into service and done duty under fire. One of the number has + fallen in the rank and place assigned him according to those + regulations, and to set them aside and make a new order in conflict with + the regulations will, I apprehend, be deemed, if not <i>ex post facto</i>, + almost invidious. +</p> +<p> + In this matter the Department has no feeling, but it is desirable that + it should be distinctly settled whether hereafter the Army Regulations + are to govern in the question of rank in the Marine Corps or whether + they are to be set aside by resolution of the Senate. +</p> +<p> + I have the honor to return the papers and subscribe myself, very + respectfully, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> + GIDEON WELLES. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>August 5, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of your honorable body of date July 31, + 1861, requesting the President to inform the Senate whether the Hon. + James H. Lane, a member of that body from Kansas, has been appointed a + brigadier-general in the Army of the United States, and, if so, whether + he has accepted such appointment, I have the honor to transmit herewith + certain papers, numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, which taken together + explain themselves, and which contain all the information I possess upon + the questions propounded. +</p> +<p> + It was my intention, as shown by my letter of June 20, 1861, to appoint + Hon. James H. Lane, of Kansas, a brigadier-general of United States + Volunteers, in anticipation of the act of Congress since passed for + raising such volunteers; and I have no further knowledge upon the + subject except as derived from the papers herewith inclosed. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + + + +<a name="2H_4_0010"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + PROCLAMATIONS. +</h2> +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas a joint committee of both Houses of Congress has waited on the + President of the United States and requested him to "recommend a day of + public humiliation, prayer, and fasting to be observed by the people of + the United States with religious solemnities and the offering of fervent + supplications to Almighty God for the safety and welfare of these + States, His blessings on their arms, and a speedy restoration of peace;" + and +</p> +<p> + Whereas it is fit and becoming in all people at all times to acknowledge + and revere the supreme government of God, to bow in humble submission to + His chastisements, to confess and deplore their sins and transgressions + in the full conviction that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of + wisdom, and to pray with all fervency and contrition for the pardon of + their past offenses and for a blessing upon their present and + prospective action; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas when our own beloved country, once, by the blessing of God, + united, prosperous, and happy, is now afflicted with faction and civil + war, it is peculiarly fit for us to recognize the hand of God in this + terrible visitation, and in sorrowful remembrance of our own faults and + crimes as a nation and as individuals to humble ourselves before Him and + to pray for His mercy—to pray that we may be spared further punishment, + though most justly deserved; that our arms may be blessed and made + effectual for the reestablishment of law, order, and peace throughout + the wide extent of our country; and that the inestimable boon of civil + and religious liberty, earned under His guidance and blessing by the + labors and sufferings of our fathers, may be restored in all its + original excellence: +</p> +<p> + Therefore I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do appoint + the last Thursday in September next as a day of humiliation, prayer, and + fasting for all the people of the nation. And I do earnestly recommend + to all the people, and especially to all ministers and teachers of + religion of all denominations and to all heads of families, to observe + and keep that day according to their several creeds and modes of worship + in all humility and with all religious solemnity, to the end that the + united prayer of the nation may ascend to the Throne of Grace and bring + down plentiful blessings upon our country. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed, this 12th day of August, A.D. 1861, and + of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-sixth. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas on the 15th day of April, 1861, the President of the United + States, in view of an insurrection against the laws, Constitution, and + Government of the United States which had broken out within the States + of South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, + and Texas, and in pursuance of the provisions of the act entitled "An + act to provide for calling forth the militia to execute the laws of the + Union, suppress insurrections, and repel invasions, and to repeal the + act now in force for that purpose," approved February 28, 1795, did call + forth the militia to suppress said insurrection and to cause the laws' + of the Union to be duly executed, and the insurgents have failed to + disperse by the time directed by the President; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas such insurrection has since broken out, and yet exists, within + the States of Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Arkansas; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the insurgents in all the said States claim to act under the + authority thereof, and such claim is not disclaimed or repudiated by the + persons exercising the functions of government in such State or States + or in the part or parts thereof in which such combinations exist, nor + has such insurrection been suppressed by said States: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, in + pursuance of an act of Congress approved July 13, 1861, do hereby + declare that the inhabitants of the said States of Georgia, South + Carolina, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Louisiana, + Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Florida (except the inhabitants of + that part of the State of Virginia lying west of the Alleghany Mountains + and of such other parts of that State and the other States hereinbefore + named as may maintain a loyal adhesion to the Union and the Constitution + or may be from time to time occupied and controlled by forces of the + United States engaged in the dispersion of said insurgents) are in a + state of insurrection against the United States, and that all commercial + intercourse between the same and the inhabitants thereof, with the + exceptions aforesaid, and the citizens of other States and other parts + of the United States is unlawful, and will remain unlawful until such + insurrection shall cease or has been suppressed; that all goods and + chattels, wares and merchandise, coming from any of said States, with + the exceptions aforesaid, into other parts of the United States without + the special license and permission of the President, through the + Secretary of the Treasury, or proceeding to any of said States, with the + exceptions aforesaid, by land or water, together with the vessel or + vehicle conveying the same or conveying persons to or from said States, + with said exceptions, will be forfeited to the United States; and that + from and after fifteen days from the issuing of this proclamation all + ships and vessels belonging in whole or in part to any citizen or + inhabitant of any of said States, with said exceptions, found at sea or + in any port of the United States will be forfeited to the United States; + and I hereby enjoin upon all district attorneys, marshals, and officers + of the revenue and of the military and naval forces of the United States + to be vigilant in the execution of said act and in the enforcement of + the penalties and forfeitures imposed or declared by it, leaving any + party who may think himself aggrieved thereby to his application to the + Secretary of the Treasury for the remission of any penalty or + forfeiture, which the said Secretary is authorized by law to grant if in + his judgment the special circumstances of any case shall require such + remission. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 16th day of August, A.D. 1861, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty-sixth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> + +<a name="2H_4_0011"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + EXECUTIVE ORDERS. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + JULY 31, 1861. +</p> +<p> + The marshal of the United States in the vicinity of forts where + political prisoners are held will supply decent lodging and subsistence + for such prisoners, unless they shall prefer to provide in those + respects for themselves, in which cases they will be allowed to do so by + the commanding officers in charge. +</p> +<p> + Approved, and the Secretary of State will transmit the order to + marshals, the Lieutenant-General, and Secretary of the Interior. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + AUGUST 7, 1861. +</p> +<p> + By the fifty-seventh article of the act of Congress entitled "An act for + establishing rules and articles for the government of the armies of the + United States," approved April 10, 1806, holding correspondence with or + giving intelligence to the enemy, either directly or indirectly, is made + punishable by death, or such other punishment as shall be ordered by the + sentence of a court-martial. Public safety requires strict enforcement + of this article. +</p> +<p> + <i>It is therefore ordered</i>, That all correspondence and communication, + verbally or by writing, printing, or telegraphing, respecting operations + of the Army or military movements on land or water, or respecting the + troops, camps, arsenals, intrenchments, or military affairs within the + several military districts, by which intelligence shall be, directly or + indirectly, given to the enemy, without the authority and sanction of + the major-general in command, be, and the same are, absolutely + prohibited, and from and after the date of this order persons violating + the same will be proceeded against under the fifty-seventh article of + war. +</p> +<p class="r"> + SIMON CAMERON. +</p> +<p><br> + Approved: +<br> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0012"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + GENERAL ORDER. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE OF THE UNITED STATES, <i>October 4, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + Flag-officers of the United States Navy authorized to wear a square flag + at the mizzenmast head will take rank with major-generals of the United + States Army. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>October 14, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + Lieutenant-General WINFIELD SCOTT: +</p> +<p> + The military line of the United States for the suppression of the + insurrection may be extended so far as Bangor, in Maine. You and any + officer acting under your authority are hereby authorized to suspend the + writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> in any place between that place and the city of + Washington. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, NO. 94. +</center> +<p class="r"> + WAR DEPARTMENT, +<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE, +<br> + <i>Washington, November 1, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + The following order from the President of the United States, announcing + the retirement from active command of the honored veteran + Lieutenant-General Winfield Scott, will be read by the Army with + profound regret: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, November 1, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + On the 1st day of November, A.D. 1861, upon his own application to the + President of the United States, Brevet Lieutenant-General Winfield Scott + is ordered to be placed, and hereby is placed, upon the list of retired + officers of the Army of the United States, without reduction in his + current pay, subsistence, or allowances. +</p> +<p> + The American people will hear with sadness and deep emotion that General + Scott has withdrawn from the active control of the Army, while the + President and a unanimous Cabinet express their own and the nation's + sympathy in his personal affliction and their profound sense of the + important public services rendered by him to his country during his long + and brilliant career, among which will ever be gratefully distinguished + his faithful devotion to the Constitution, the Union, and the flag when + assailed by parricidal rebellion. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p> + The President is pleased to direct that Major-General George B. + McClellan assume the command of the Army of the United States. The + headquarters of the Army will be established in the city of Washington. + All communications intended for the Commanding General will hereafter be + addressed direct to the Adjutant-General. The duplicate returns, orders, + and other papers heretofore sent to the Assistant Adjutant-General, + Headquarters of the Army, will be discontinued. +</p> +<p> + By order of the Secretary of War: +</p> +<p class="r"> +L. THOMAS,<br> + <i>Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, +<br> + <i>Washington, November 5, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + The governor of the State of Missouri, acting under the direction of the + convention of that State, proposes to the Government of the United + States that he will raise a military force, to serve within the State as + State militia during the war there, to cooperate with the troops in the + service of the United States in repelling the invasion of the State and + suppressing rebellion therein; the said State militia to be embodied and + to be held in the camp and in the field, drilled, disciplined, and + governed according to the Army Regulations and subject to the Articles + of War; the said State militia not to be ordered out of the State except + for the immediate defense of the State of Missouri, but to cooperate + with the troops in the service of the United States in military + operations within the State or necessary to its defense, and when + officers of the State militia act with officers in the service of the + United States of the same grade the officers of the United States + service shall command the combined force; the State militia to be armed, + equipped, clothed, subsisted, transported, and paid by the United States + during such time as they shall be actually engaged as an embodied + military force in service in accordance with Regulations of the United + States Army or general orders as issued from time to time. +</p> +<p> + In order that the Treasury of the United States may not be burdened + with the pay of unnecessary officers, the governor proposes that, + although the State law requires him to appoint upon the general staff + an adjutant-general, a commissary-general, an inspector-general, + a quartermaster-general, a paymaster-general, and a surgeon-general, + each with the rank of colonel of cavalry, yet he proposes that the + Government of the United States pay only the adjutant-general, the + quartermaster-general, and inspect or-general, their services being + necessary in the relations which would exist between the State militia + and the United States. The governor further proposes that, while he is + allowed by the State law to appoint aids-de-camp to the governor at his + discretion, with the rank of colonel, three only shall be reported to + the United States for payment. He also proposes that the State militia + shall be commanded by a single major-general and by such number of + brigadier-generals as shall allow one for a brigade of not less than + four regiments, and that no greater number of staff officers shall be + appointed for regimental, brigade, and division duties than as provided + for in the act of Congress of the 22d July, 1861; and that, whatever + be the rank of such officers as fixed by the law of the State, the + compensation that they shall receive from the United States shall only + be that which belongs to the rank given by said act of Congress to + officers in the United States service performing the same duties. +</p> +<p> + The field officers of a regiment in the State militia are one colonel, + one lieutenant-colonel, and one major, and the company officers are a + captain, a first lieutenant, and a second lieutenant. +</p> +<p> + The governor proposes that, as the money to be disbursed is the money of + the United States, such staff officers in the service of the United + States as may be necessary to act as disbursing officers for the State + militia shall be assigned by the War Department for that duty; or, if + such can not be spared from their present duty, he will appoint such + persons disbursing officers for the State militia as the President of + the United States may designate. Such regulations as may be required, in + the judgment of the President, to insure regularity of returns and to + protect the United States from any fraudulent practices shall be + observed and obeyed by all in office in the State militia. +</p> +<p> + The above propositions are accepted on the part of the United States, + and the Secretary of War is directed to make the necessary orders upon + the Ordnance, Quartermaster's, Commissary, Pay, and Medical departments + to carry this agreement into effect. He will cause the necessary staff + officers in the United States service to be detailed for duty in + connection with the Missouri State militia, and will order them to make + the necessary provision in their respective offices for fulfilling this + agreement. All requisitions upon the different officers of the United + States under this agreement to be made in substance in the same mode for + the Missouri State militia as similar requisitions are made for troops + in the service of the United States; and the Secretary of War will cause + any additional regulations that may be necessary to insure regularity + and economy in carrying this agreement into effect to be adopted and + communicated to the governor of Missouri for the government of the + Missouri State militia. +</p> +<center> + [Indorsement.] +</center> +<p class="r"> + NOVEMBER 6, 1861. +</p> +<p> + This plan approved, with the modification that the governor stipulates + that when he commissions a major-general of militia it shall be the same + person at the time in command of the United States Department of the + West; and in case the United States shall change such commander of the + department, he (the governor) will revoke the State commission given to + the person relieved and give one to the person substituted to the United + States command of said department. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 96. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, November 7, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + Authority to raise a force of State militia, to serve during the war, is + granted, by direction of the President, to the governor of Missouri. + This force is to cooperate with the troops in the service of the United + States in repelling the invasion of the State of Missouri and in + suppressing rebellion therein. It is to be held, in camp and in the + field, drilled, disciplined, and governed according to the Regulations + of the United States Army and subject to the Articles of War; but it is + not to be ordered out of the State of Missouri except for the immediate + defense of the said State. +</p> +<p> + The State forces thus authorized will be, during such time as they shall + be actually engaged as an embodied military force in active service, + armed, equipped, clothed, subsisted, transported, and paid by the United + States in accordance with the Regulations of the United States Army and + such orders as may from time to time be issued from the War Department, + and in no other manner; and they shall be considered as disbanded from + the service of the United States whenever the President may so direct. +</p> +<p> + In connection with this force the governor is authorized to appoint the + following officers, who will be recognized and paid by the United + States, to wit: One major-general, to command the whole of the State + forces brought into service, who shall be the same person appointed by + the President to command the United States Military Department of the + West, and shall retain his commission as major-general of the State + forces only during his command of the said department; one + adjutant-general, one inspector-general, and one quartermaster-general, + each with the rank and pay of a colonel of cavalry; three aids-de-camp + to the governor, each with the rank and pay of a colonel of infantry; + brigadier-generals at the rate of one to a brigade of not less than four + regiments; and division, brigade, and regimental staff officers not to + exceed in numbers those provided for in the organization prescribed by + the act approved July 22, 1861, "for the employment of volunteers," nor + to be more highly compensated by the United States, whatever their + nominal rank in the State service, than officers performing the same + duties under that act. +</p> +<p> + The field officers of a regiment to be one colonel, one + lieutenant-colonel, and one major, and the officers of a company to be + one captain, one first and one second lieutenant. +</p> +<p> + When officers of the said State forces shall act in conjunction with + officers of the United States Army of the same grade, the latter shall + command the combined force. +</p> +<p> + All disbursements of money made to these troops or in consequence of + their employment by the United States shall be made by disbursing + officers of the United States Army, assigned by the War Department, or + specially appointed by the President for that purpose, who will make + their requisitions upon the different supply departments in the same + manner for the Missouri State forces as similar requisitions are made + for other volunteer troops in the service of the United States. +</p> +<p> + The Secretary of War will cause any additional regulations that may be + necessary for the purpose of promoting economy, insuring regularity of + returns, and protecting the United States from fraudulent practices to + be adopted and published for the government of the said State forces, + and the same will be obeyed and observed by all in office under the + authority of the State of Missouri. +</p> +<p> + By order: +</p> +<p class="r"> +JULIUS P. GARESCHE,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 100. +</center> +<p class="r"> +HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, November 16, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + Complaint has been made to the President of the United States that + certain persons within the State of Virginia, in places occupied by the + forces of the United States, claim to be incumbents of civil + offices—State, county, and municipal—by alleged authority from the + Commonwealth of Virginia, in disregard and violation of the "declaration + of the people of Virginia represented in convention at the city of + Wheeling, Thursday, June 13, 1861," and of the ordinances of said + convention, and of the acts of the general assembly held by authority of + said convention. +</p> +<p> + It is therefore ordered, by direction of the President, that if any + person shall hereafter attempt within the State of Virginia, under the + alleged authority of said Commonwealth, to exercise any official powers + of a civil nature within the limits of any of the commands of the + occupying forces of the United States, unless in pursuance of the + declaration and ordinances of the convention assembled at Wheeling on + the 13th day of June, 1861, and the acts of the general assembly held by + authority of said convention, such attempt shall be treated as an act of + hostility against the United States, and such person shall be taken into + military custody. +</p> +<p> + Commanding officers are directed to enforce this order within their + respective commands. +</p> +<hr> +<p> + By command of Major-General McClellan: +</p> +<p class="r"> +L. THOMAS,<br> + <i>Adjutant-General</i> +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, November 27, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + The municipal authorities of Washington and Georgetown, in this + District, having appointed to-morrow, the 28th instant, as a day of + thanksgiving, the several Departments will on that occasion be closed, + in order that the officers of the Government may partake in the + ceremonies. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0013"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + FIRST ANNUAL MESSAGE. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 3, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In the midst of unprecedented political troubles we have cause of great + gratitude to God for unusual good health and most abundant harvests. +</p> +<p> + You will not be surprised to learn that in the peculiar exigencies of + the times our intercourse with foreign nations has been attended with + profound solicitude, chiefly turning upon our own domestic affairs. +</p> +<p> + A disloyal portion of the American people have during the whole year + been engaged in an attempt to divide and destroy the Union. A nation + which endures factious domestic division is exposed to disrespect + abroad, and one party, if not both, is sure sooner or later to invoke + foreign intervention. +</p> +<p> + Nations thus tempted to interfere are not always able to resist the + counsels of seeming expediency and ungenerous ambition, although + measures adopted under such influences seldom fail to be unfortunate and + injurious to those adopting them. +</p> +<p> + The disloyal citizens of the United States who have offered the ruin of + our country in return for the aid and comfort which they have invoked + abroad have received less patronage and encouragement than they probably + expected. If it were just to suppose, as the insurgents have seemed to + assume, that foreign nations in this case, discarding all moral, social, + and treaty obligations, would act solely and selfishly for the most + speedy restoration of commerce, including especially the acquisition of + cotton, those nations appear as yet not to have seen their way to their + object more directly or clearly through the destruction than through the + preservation of the Union. If we could dare to believe that foreign + nations are actuated by no higher principle than this, I am quite sure a + sound argument could be made to show them that they can reach their aim + more readily and easily by aiding to crush this rebellion than by giving + encouragement to it. +</p> +<p> + The principal lever relied on by the insurgents for exciting foreign + nations to hostility against us, as already intimated, is the + embarrassment of commerce. Those nations, however, not improbably saw + from the first that it was the Union which made as well our foreign as + our domestic commerce. They can scarcely have failed to perceive that + the effort for disunion produces the existing difficulty, and that one + strong nation promises more durable peace and a more extensive, + valuable, and reliable commerce than can the same nation broken into + hostile fragments. +</p> +<p> + It is not my purpose to review our discussions with foreign states, + because, whatever might be their wishes or dispositions, the integrity + of our country and the stability of our Government mainly depend not + upon them, but on the loyalty, virtue, patriotism, and intelligence of + the American people. The correspondence itself, with the usual + reservations, is herewith submitted. +</p> +<p> + I venture to hope it will appear that we have practiced prudence and + liberality toward foreign powers, averting causes of irritation and with + firmness maintaining our own rights and honor. +</p> +<p> + Since, however, it is apparent that here, as in every other state, + foreign dangers necessarily attend domestic difficulties, I recommend + that adequate and ample measures be adopted for maintaining the public + defenses on every side. While under this general recommendation + provision for defending our seacoast line readily occurs to the mind, I + also in the same connection ask the attention of Congress to our great + lakes and rivers. It is believed that some fortifications and depots of + arms and munitions, with harbor and navigation improvements, all at + well-selected points upon these, would be of great importance to the + national defense and preservation. I ask attention to the views of the + Secretary of War, expressed in his report, upon the same general + subject. +</p> +<p> + I deem it of importance that the loyal regions of east Tennessee and + western North Carolina should be connected with Kentucky and other + faithful parts of the Union by railroad. I therefore recommend, as a + military measure, that Congress provide for the construction of such + road as speedily as possible. Kentucky no doubt will cooperate, and + through her legislature make the most judicious selection of a line. The + northern terminus must connect with some existing railroad, and whether + the route shall be from Lexington or Nicholasville to the Cumberland + Gap, or from Lebanon to the Tennessee line, in the direction of + Knoxville, or on some still different line, can easily be determined. + Kentucky and the General Government cooperating, the work can be + completed in a very short time, and when done it will be not only of + vast present usefulness, but also a valuable permanent improvement, + worth its cost in all the future. +</p> +<p> + Some treaties, designed chiefly for the interests of commerce, and + having no grave political importance, have been negotiated, and will be + submitted to the Senate for their consideration. +</p> +<p> + Although we have failed to induce some of the commercial powers to adopt + a desirable melioration of the rigor of maritime war, we have removed + all obstructions from the way of this humane reform except such as are + merely of temporary and accidental occurrence. +</p> +<p> + I invite your attention to the correspondence between Her Britannic + Majesty's minister accredited to this Government and the Secretary of + State relative to the detention of the British ship <i>Perthshire</i> in June + last by the United States steamer <i>Massachusetts</i> for a supposed breach + of the blockade. As this detention was occasioned by an obvious + misapprehension of the facts, and as justice requires that we should + commit no belligerent act not founded in strict right as sanctioned by + public law, I recommend that an appropriation be made to satisfy the + reasonable demand of the owners of the vessel for her detention. +</p> +<p> + I repeat the recommendation of my predecessor in his annual message to + Congress in December last in regard to the disposition of the surplus + which will probably remain after satisfying the claims of American + citizens against China, pursuant to the awards of the commissioners + under the act of the 3d of March, 1859. If, however, it should not be + deemed advisable to carry that recommendation into effect, I would + suggest that authority be given for investing the principal, over the + proceeds of the surplus referred to, in good securities, with a view to + the satisfaction of such other just claims of our citizens against China + as are not unlikely to arise hereafter in the course of our extensive + trade with that Empire. +</p> +<p> + By the act of the 5th of August last Congress authorized the President + to instruct the commanders of suitable vessels to defend themselves + against and to capture pirates. This authority has been exercised in a + single instance only. For the more effectual protection of our extensive + and valuable commerce in the Eastern seas especially, it seems to me + that it would also be advisable to authorize the commanders of sailing + vessels to recapture any prizes which pirates may make of United States + vessels and their cargoes, and the consular courts now established by + law in Eastern countries to adjudicate the cases in the event that this + should not be objected to by the local authorities. +</p> +<p> + If any good reason exists why we should persevere longer in withholding + our recognition of the independence and sovereignty of Hayti and + Liberia, I am unable to discern it. Unwilling, however, to inaugurate a + novel policy in regard to them without the approbation of Congress, I + submit for your consideration the expediency of an appropriation for + maintaining a chargé d'affaires near each of those new States. It does + not admit of doubt that important commercial advantages might be secured + by favorable treaties with them. +</p> +<p> + The operations of the Treasury during the period which has elapsed since + your adjournment have been conducted with signal success. The patriotism + of the people has placed at the disposal of the Government the large + means demanded by the public exigencies; Much of the national loan has + been taken by citizens of the industrial classes, whose confidence in + their country's faith and zeal for their country's deliverance from + present peril have induced them to contribute to the support of the + Government the whole of their limited acquisitions. This fact imposes + peculiar obligations to economy in disbursement and energy in action. +</p> +<p> + The revenue from all sources, including loans, for the financial year + ending on the 30th of June, 1861, was $86,835,900.27, and the + expenditures for the same period, including payments on account of the + public debt, were $84,578,834.47, leaving a balance in the Treasury on + the 1st of July of $2,257,065.80. For the first quarter of the financial + year ending on the 30th of September, 1861, the receipts from all + sources, including the balance of the 1st of July, were $102,532,509.27, + and the expenses $98,239,733.09, leaving a balance on the 1st of + October, 1861, of $4,292,776.18. +</p> +<p> + Estimates for the remaining three quarters of the year and for the + financial year 1863, together with his views of ways and means for + meeting the demands contemplated by them, will be submitted to Congress + by the Secretary of the Treasury. It is gratifying to know that the + expenditures made necessary by the rebellion are not beyond the + resources of the loyal people, and to believe that the same patriotism + which has thus far sustained the Government will continue to sustain it + till peace and union shall again bless the land. +</p> +<p> + I respectfully refer to the report of the Secretary of War for + information respecting the numerical strength of the Army and for + recommendations having in view an increase of its efficiency and the + well-being of the various branches of the service intrusted to his care. + It is gratifying to know that the patriotism of the people has proved + equal to the occasion, and that the number of troops tendered greatly + exceeds the force which Congress authorized me to call into the field. +</p> +<p> + I refer with pleasure to those portions of his report which make + allusion to the creditable degree of discipline already attained by our + troops and to the excellent sanitary condition of the entire Army. +</p> +<p> + The recommendation of the Secretary for an organization of the militia + upon a uniform basis is a subject of vital importance to the future + safety of the country, arid is commended to the serious attention of + Congress. +</p> +<p> + The large addition to the Regular Army, in connection with the defection + that has so considerably diminished the number of its officers, gives + peculiar importance to his recommendation for increasing the corps of + cadets to the greatest capacity of the Military Academy. +</p> +<p> + By mere omission, I presume, Congress has failed to provide chaplains + for hospitals occupied by volunteers. This subject was brought to my + notice, and I was induced to draw up the form of a letter, one copy of + which, properly addressed, has been delivered to each of the persons, + and at the dates respectively named and stated in a schedule, containing + also the form of the letter marked A, and herewith transmitted. +</p> +<p> + These gentlemen, I understand, entered upon the duties designated at the + times respectively stated in the schedule, and have labored faithfully + therein ever since. I therefore recommend that they be compensated at + the same rate as chaplains in the Army. I further suggest that general + provision be made for chaplains to serve at hospitals, as well as with + regiments. +</p> +<p> + The report of the Secretary of the Navy presents in detail the + operations of that branch of the service, the activity and energy which + have characterized its administration, and the results of measures to + increase its efficiency and power. Such have been the additions, by + construction and purchase, that it may almost be said a navy has been + created and brought into service since our difficulties commenced. +</p> +<p> + Besides blockading our extensive coast, squadrons larger than ever + before assembled under our flag have been put afloat and performed deeds + which have increased our naval renown. +</p> +<p> + I would invite special attention to the recommendation of the Secretary + for a more perfect organization of the Navy by introducing additional + grades in the service. +</p> +<p> + The present organization is defective and unsatisfactory, and the + suggestions submitted by the Department will, it is believed, if + adopted, obviate the difficulties alluded to, promote harmony, and + increase the efficiency of the Navy. +</p> +<p> + There are three vacancies on the bench of the Supreme Court—two by the + decease of Justices Daniel and McLean and one by the resignation of + Justice Campbell. I have so far forborne making nominations to fill + these vacancies for reasons which I will now state. Two of the out-going + judges resided within the States now overrun by revolt, so that if + successors were appointed in the same localities they could not now + serve upon their circuits; and many of the most competent men there + probably would not take the personal hazard of accepting to serve, even + here, upon the Supreme bench. I have been unwilling to throw all the + appointments northward, thus disabling myself from doing justice to the + South on the return of peace; although I may remark that to transfer to + the North one which has heretofore been in the South would not, with + reference to territory and population, be unjust. +</p> +<p> + During the long and brilliant judicial career of Judge McLean his + circuit grew into an empire—altogether too large for any one judge to + give the courts therein more than a nominal attendance—rising in + population from 1,470,018 in 1830 to 6,151,405 in 1860. +</p> +<p> + Besides this, the country generally has outgrown our present judicial + system. If uniformity was at all intended, the system requires that all + the States shall be accommodated with circuit courts, attended by + Supreme judges, while, in fact, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, + Florida, Texas, California, and Oregon have never had any such courts. + Nor can this well be remedied without a change in the system, because + the adding of judges to the Supreme Court, enough for the accommodation + of all parts of the country with circuit courts, would create a court + altogether too numerous for a judicial body of any sort. And the evil, + if it be one, will increase as new States come into the Union. Circuit + courts are useful or they are not useful. If useful, no State should be + denied them; if not useful, no State should have them. Let them be + provided for all or abolished as to all. +</p> +<p> + Three modifications occur to me, either of which, I think, would be an + improvement upon our present system. Let the Supreme Court be of + convenient number in every event; then, first, let the whole country be + divided into circuits of convenient size, the Supreme judges to serve in + a number of them corresponding to their own number, and independent + circuit judges be provided for all the rest; or, secondly, let the + Supreme judges be relieved from circuit duties and circuit judges + provided for all the circuits; or, thirdly, dispense with circuit courts + altogether, leaving the judicial functions wholly to the district courts + and an independent Supreme Court. +</p> +<p> + I respectfully recommend to the consideration of Congress the present + condition of the statute laws, with the hope that Congress will be able + to find an easy remedy for many of the inconveniences and evils which + constantly embarrass those engaged in the practical administration of + them. Since the organization of the Government Congress has enacted some + 5,000 acts and joint resolutions, which fill more than 6,000 closely + printed pages and are scattered through many volumes. Many of these acts + have been drawn in haste and without sufficient caution, so that their + provisions are often obscure in themselves or in conflict with each + other, or at least so doubtful as to render it very difficult for even + the best-informed persons to ascertain precisely what the statute law + really is. +</p> +<p> + It seems to me very important that the statute laws should be made as + plain and intelligible as possible, and be reduced to as small a compass + as may consist with the fullness and precision of the will of the + Legislature and the perspicuity of its language. This well done would, I + think, greatly facilitate the labors of those whose duty it is to assist + in the administration of the laws, and would be a lasting benefit to the + people, by placing before them in a more accessible and intelligible + form the laws which so deeply concern their interests and their duties. +</p> +<p> + I am informed by some whose opinions I respect that all the acts of + Congress now in force and of a permanent and general nature might be + revised and rewritten so as to be embraced in one volume (or at most two + volumes) of ordinary and convenient size; and I respectfully recommend + to Congress to consider of the subject, and if my suggestion be approved + to devise such plan as to their wisdom shall seem most proper for the + attainment of the end proposed. +</p> +<p> + One of the unavoidable consequences of the present insurrection is the + entire suppression in many places of all the ordinary means of + administering civil justice by the officers and in the forms of existing + law. This is the case, in whole or in part, in all the insurgent States; + and as our armies advance upon and take possession of parts of those + States the practical evil becomes more apparent. There are no courts nor + officers to whom the citizens of other States may apply for the + enforcement of their lawful claims against citizens of the insurgent + States, and there is a vast amount of debt constituting such claims. + Some have estimated it as high as $200,000,000, due in large part from + insurgents in open rebellion to loyal citizens who are even now making + great sacrifices in the discharge of their patriotic duty to support the + Government. +</p> +<p> + Under these circumstances I have been urgently solicited to establish by + military power courts to administer summary justice in such cases. I + have thus far declined to do it, not because I had any doubt that the + end proposed—the collection of the debts—was just and right in itself, + but because I have been unwilling to go beyond the pressure of necessity + in the unusual exercise of power. But the powers of Congress, I suppose, + are equal to the anomalous occasion, and therefore I refer the whole + matter to Congress, with the hope that a plan may be devised for the + administration of justice in all such parts of the insurgent States and + Territories as may be under the control of this Government, whether by a + voluntary return to allegiance and order or by the power of our arms; + this, however, not to be a permanent institution, but a temporary + substitute, and to cease as soon as the ordinary courts can be + reestablished in peace. +</p> +<p> + It is important that some more convenient means should be provided, if + possible, for the adjustment of claims against the Government, + especially in view of their increased number by reason of the war. It is + as much the duty of Government to render prompt justice against itself + in favor of citizens as it is to administer the same between private + individuals. The investigation and adjudication of claims in their + nature belong to the judicial department. Besides, it is apparent that + the attention of Congress will be more than usually engaged for some + time to come with great national questions. It was intended by the + organization of the Court of Claims mainly to remove this branch of + business from the halls of Congress; but while the court has proved to + be an effective and valuable means of investigation, it in great degree + fails to effect the object of its creation for want of power to make its + judgments final. +</p> +<p> + Fully aware of the delicacy, not to say the danger, of the subject, I + commend to your careful consideration whether this power of making + judgments final may not properly be given to the court, reserving the + right of appeal on questions of law to the Supreme Court, with such + other provisions as experience may have shown to be necessary. +</p> +<p> + I ask attention to the report of the Postmaster-General, the following + being a summary statement of the condition of the Department: +</p> +<p> + The revenue from all sources during the fiscal year ending June 30, + 1861, including the annual permanent appropriation of $700,000 for the + transportation of "free mail matter," was $9,049,296.40, being about 2 + per cent less than the revenue for 1860. +</p> +<p> + The expenditures were $13,606,759.11, showing a decrease of more than 8 + per cent as compared with those of the previous year and leaving an + excess of expenditure over the revenue for the last fiscal year of + $4,557,462.71. +</p> +<p> + The gross revenue for the year ending June 30, 1863, is estimated at an + increase of 4 per cent on that of 1861, making $8,683,000, to which + should be added the earnings of the Department in carrying free matter, + viz, $700,000, making $9,383,000. +</p> +<p> + The total expenditures for 1863 are estimated at $12,528,000, leaving an + estimated deficiency of $3,145,000 to be supplied from the Treasury in + addition to the permanent appropriation. +</p> +<p> + The present insurrection shows, I think, that the extension of this + District across the Potomac River at the time of establishing the + capital here was eminently wise, and consequently that the + relinquishment of that portion of it which lies within the State of + Virginia was unwise and dangerous. I submit for your consideration the + expediency of regaining that part of the District and the restoration of + the original boundaries thereof through negotiations with the State of + Virginia. +</p> +<p> + The report of the Secretary of the Interior, with the accompanying + documents, exhibits the condition of the several branches of the public + business pertaining to that Department. The depressing influences of the + insurrection have been specially felt in the operations of the Patent + and General Land Offices. The cash receipts from the sales of public + lands during the past year have exceeded the expenses of our land system + only about $200,000. The sales have been entirely suspended in the + Southern States, while the interruptions to the business of the country + and the diversion of large numbers of men from labor to military service + have obstructed settlements in the new States and Territories of the + Northwest. +</p> +<p> + The receipts of the Patent Office have declined in nine months about + $100,000, rendering a large reduction of the force employed necessary to + make it self-sustaining. +</p> +<p> + The demands upon the Pension Office will be largely increased by the + insurrection. Numerous applications for pensions, based upon the + casualties of the existing war, have already been made. There is reason + to believe that many who are now upon the pension rolls and in receipt + of the bounty of the Government are in the ranks of the insurgent army + or giving them aid and comfort. The Secretary of the Interior has + directed a suspension of the payment of the pensions of such persons + upon proof of their disloyalty. I recommend that Congress authorize that + officer to cause the names of such persons to be stricken from the + pension rolls. +</p> +<p> + The relations of the Government with the Indian tribes have been greatly + disturbed by the insurrection, especially in the southern + superintendency and in that of New Mexico. The Indian country south of + Kansas is in the possession of insurgents from Texas and Arkansas. The + agents of the United States appointed since the 4th of March for this + superintendency have been unable to reach their posts, while the most of + those who were in office before that time have espoused the + insurrectionary cause, and assume to exercise the powers of agents by + virtue of commissions from the insurrectionists. It has been stated in + the public press that a portion of those Indians have been organized as + a military force and are attached to the army of the insurgents. + Although the Government has no official information upon this subject, + letters have been written to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs by + several prominent chiefs giving assurance of their loyalty to the United + States and expressing a wish for the presence of Federal troops to + protect them. It is believed that upon the repossession of the country + by the Federal forces the Indians will readily cease all hostile + demonstrations and resume their former relations to the Government. +</p> +<p> + Agriculture, confessedly the largest interest of the nation, has not a + department nor a bureau, but a clerkship only, assigned to it in the + Government. While it is fortunate that this great interest is so + independent in its nature as to not have demanded and extorted more from + the Government, I respectfully ask Congress to consider whether + something more can not be given voluntarily with general advantage. +</p> +<p> + Annual reports exhibiting the condition of our agriculture, commerce, + and manufactures would present a fund of information of great practical + value to the country. While I make no suggestion as to details, I + venture the opinion that an agricultural and statistical bureau might + profitably be organized. +</p> +<p> + The execution of the laws for the suppression of the African slave trade + has been confided to the Department of the Interior. It is a subject of + gratulation that the efforts which have been made for the suppression of + this inhuman traffic have been recently attended with unusual success. + Five vessels being fitted out for the slave trade have been seized and + condemned. Two mates of vessels engaged in the trade and one person in + equipping a vessel as a slaver have been convicted and subjected to the + penalty of fine and imprisonment, and one captain, taken with a cargo of + Africans on board his vessel, has been convicted of the highest grade of + offense under our laws, the punishment of which is death. +</p> +<p> + The Territories of Colorado, Dakota, and Nevada, created by the last + Congress, have been organized, and civil administration has been + inaugurated therein under auspices especially gratifying when it is + considered that the leaven of treason was found existing in some of + these new countries when the Federal officers arrived there. +</p> +<p> + The abundant natural resources of these Territories, with the security + and protection afforded by organized government, will doubtless invite + to them a large immigration when peace shall restore the business of the + country to its accustomed channels. I submit the resolutions of the + legislature of Colorado, which evidence the patriotic spirit of the + people of the Territory. So far the authority of the United States has + been upheld in all the Territories, as it is hoped it will be in the + future. I commend their interests and defense to the enlightened and + generous care of Congress. +</p> +<p> + I recommend to the favorable consideration of Congress the interests of + the District of Columbia. The insurrection has been the cause of much + suffering and sacrifice to its inhabitants, and as they have no + representative in Congress that body should not overlook their just + claims upon the Government. +</p> +<p> + At your late session a joint resolution was adopted authorizing the + President to take measures for facilitating a proper representation of + the industrial interests of the United States at the exhibition of the + industry of all nations to be holden at London in the year 1862. I + regret to say I have been unable to give personal attention to this + subject—a subject at once so interesting in itself and so extensively + and intimately connected with the material prosperity of the world. + Through the Secretaries of State and of the Interior a plan or system + has been devised and partly matured, and which will be laid before you. +</p> +<p> + Under and by virtue of the act of Congress entitled "An act to + confiscate property used for insurrectionary purposes," approved August + 6, 1861, the legal claims of certain persons to the labor and service of + certain other persons have become forfeited, and numbers of the latter + thus liberated are already dependent on the United States and must be + provided for in some way. Besides this, it is not impossible that some + of the States will pass similar enactments for their own benefit + respectively, and by operation of which persons of the same class will + be thrown upon them for disposal. In such case I recommend that Congress + provide for accepting such persons from such States, according to some + mode of valuation, in lieu, <i>pro tanto</i>, of direct taxes, or upon some + other plan to be agreed on with such States respectively; that such + persons, on such acceptance by the General Government, be at once deemed + free, and that in any event steps be taken for colonizing both classes + (or the one first mentioned if the other shall not be brought into + existence) at some place or places in a climate congenial to them. It + might be well to consider, too, whether the free colored people already + in the United States could not, so far as individuals may desire, be + included in such colonization. +</p> +<p> + To carry out the plan of colonization may involve the acquiring of + territory, and also the appropriation of money beyond that to be + expended in the territorial acquisition. Having practiced the + acquisition of territory for nearly sixty years, the question of + constitutional power to do so is no longer an open one with us. The + power was questioned at first by Mr. Jefferson, who, however, in the + purchase of Louisiana, yielded his scruples on the plea of great + expediency. If it be said that the only legitimate object of acquiring + territory is to furnish homes for white men, this measure effects that + object, for the emigration of colored men leaves additional room for + white men remaining or coming here. Mr. Jefferson, however, placed the + importance of procuring Louisiana more on political and commercial + grounds than on providing room for population. +</p> +<p> + On this whole proposition, including the appropriation of money with the + acquisition of territory, does not the expediency amount to absolute + necessity—that without which the Government itself can not be + perpetuated? +</p> +<p> + The war continues. In considering the policy to be adopted for + suppressing the insurrection I have been anxious and careful that the + inevitable conflict for this purpose shall not degenerate into a + violent and remorseless revolutionary struggle. I have therefore in + every case thought it proper to keep the integrity of the Union + prominent as the primary object of the contest on our part, leaving all + questions which are not of vital military importance to the more + deliberate action of the Legislature. +</p> +<p> + In the exercise of my best discretion I have adhered to the blockade of + the ports held by the insurgents, instead of putting in force by + proclamation the law of Congress enacted at the late session for closing + those ports. +</p> +<p> + So also, obeying the dictates of prudence, as well as the obligations of + law, instead of transcending I have adhered to the act of Congress to + confiscate property used for insurrectionary purposes. If a new law + upon the same subject shall be proposed, its propriety will be duly + considered The Union must be preserved, and hence all indispensable + means must be employed. We should not be in haste to determine that + radical and extreme measures, which may reach the loyal as well as the + disloyal, are indispensable. +</p> +<p> + The inaugural address at the beginning of the Administration and the + message to Congress at the late special session were both mainly devoted + to the domestic controversy out of which the insurrection and consequent + war have sprung. Nothing now occurs to add or subtract to or from the + principles or general purposes stated and expressed in those documents. +</p> +<p> + The last ray of hope for preserving the Union peaceably expired at the + assault upon Fort Sumter, and a general review of what has occurred + since may not be unprofitable. What was painfully uncertain then is much + better defined and more distinct now, and the progress of events is + plainly in the right direction. The insurgents confidently claimed a + strong support from north of Mason and Dixon's line, and the friends of + the Union were not free from apprehension on the point. This, however, + was soon settled definitely, and on the right side. South of the line + noble little Delaware led off right from the first. Maryland was made to + <i>seem</i> against the Union. Our soldiers were assaulted, bridges were + burned, and railroads torn up within her limits, and we were many days + at one time without the ability to bring a single regiment over her soil + to the capital. Now her bridges and railroads are repaired and open to + the Government; she already gives seven regiments to the cause of the + Union, and none to the enemy; and her people, at a regular election, + have sustained the Union by a larger majority and a larger aggregate + vote than they ever before gave to any candidate or any question. + Kentucky, too, for some time in doubt, is now decidedly and, I think, + unchangeably ranged on the side of the Union, Missouri is comparatively + quiet, and, I believe, can not again be overrun by the insurrectionists. + These three States of Maryland, Kentucky, and Missouri, neither of which + would promise a single soldier at first, have now an aggregate of not + less than 40,000 in the field for the Union, while of their citizens + certainly not more than a third of that number, and they of doubtful + whereabouts and doubtful existence, are in arms against us. After a + somewhat bloody struggle of months, winter closes on the Union people of + western Virginia, leaving them masters of their own country. +</p> +<p> + An insurgent force of about 1,500, for months dominating the narrow + peninsular region constituting the counties of Accomac and Northampton, + and known as Eastern Shore of Virginia, together with some contiguous + parts of Maryland, have laid down their arms, and the people there have + renewed their allegiance to and accepted the protection of the old flag. + This leaves no armed insurrectionist north of the Potomac or east of the + Chesapeake. +</p> +<p> + Also we have obtained a footing at each of the isolated points on the + southern coast of Hatteras, Port Royal, Tybee Island (near Savannah), + and Ship Island; and we likewise have some general accounts of popular + movements in behalf of the Union in North Carolina and Tennessee. +</p> +<p> + These things demonstrate that the cause of the Union is advancing + steadily and certainly southward. +</p> +<p> + Since your last adjournment Lieutenant-General Scott has retired from + the head of the Army. During his long life the nation has not been + unmindful of his merit; yet on calling to mind how faithfully, ably, and + brilliantly he has served the country, from a time far back in our + history, when few of the now living had been born, and thenceforward + continually, I can not but think we are still his debtors. I submit, + therefore, for your consideration what further mark of recognition is + due to him, and to ourselves as a grateful people. +</p> +<p> + With the retirement of General Scott came the Executive duty of + appointing in his stead a General in Chief of the Army. It is a + fortunate circumstance that neither in council nor country was there, so + far as I know, any difference of opinion as to the proper person to be + selected. The retiring chief repeatedly expressed his judgment in favor + of General McClellan for the position, and in this the nation seemed to + give a unanimous concurrence. The designation of General McClellan is + therefore in considerable degree the selection of the country as well as + of the Executive, and hence there is better reason to hope there will be + given him the confidence and cordial support thus by fair implication + promised, and without which he can not with so full efficiency serve the + country. +</p> +<p> + It has been said that one bad general is better than two good ones, and + the saying is true if taken to mean no more than that an army is better + directed by a single mind, though inferior, than by two superior ones at + variance and cross-purposes with each other. +</p> +<p> + And the same is true in all joint operations wherein those engaged <i>can</i> + have none but a common end in view and <i>can</i> differ only as to the + choice of means. In a storm at sea no one on board <i>can</i> wish the ship + to sink, and yet not unfrequently all go down together because too many + will direct and no single mind can be allowed to control. +</p> +<p> + It continues to develop that the insurrection is largely, if not + exclusively, a war upon the first principle of popular government—the + rights of the people. Conclusive evidence of this is found in the most + grave and maturely considered public documents, as well as in the + general tone of the insurgents. In those documents we find the + abridgment of the existing right of suffrage and the denial to the + people of all right to participate in the selection of public officers + except the legislative boldly advocated, with labored arguments to prove + that large control of the people in government is the source of all + political evil. Monarchy itself is sometimes hinted at as a possible + refuge from the power of the people. +</p> +<p> + In my present position I could scarcely be justified were I to omit + raising a warning voice against this approach of returning despotism. +</p> +<p> + It is not needed nor fitting here that a general argument should be made + in favor of popular institutions, but there is one point, with its + connections, not so hackneyed as most others, to which I ask a brief + attention. It is the effort to place <i>capital</i> on an equal footing with, + if not above, <i>labor</i> in the structure of government. It is assumed that + labor is available only in connection with capital; that nobody labors + unless some-body else, owning capital, somehow by the use of it induces + him to labor. This assumed, it is next considered whether it is best + that capital shall <i>hire</i> laborers, and thus induce them to work by + their own consent, or <i>buy</i> them and drive them to it without their + consent. Having proceeded so far, it is naturally concluded that all + laborers are either <i>hired</i> laborers or what we call slaves. And + further, it is assumed that whoever is once a hired laborer is fixed in + that condition for life. +</p> +<p> + Now there is no such relation between capital and labor as assumed, nor + is there any such thing as a free man being fixed for life in the + condition of a hired laborer. Both these assumptions are false, and all + inferences from them are groundless. +</p> +<p> + Labor is prior to and independent of capital. Capital is only the fruit + of labor, and could never have existed if labor had not first existed. + Labor is the superior of capital, and deserves much the higher + consideration. Capital has its rights, which are as worthy of protection + as any other rights. Nor is it denied that there is, and probably always + will be, a relation between labor and capital producing mutual benefits. + The error is in assuming that the whole labor of community exists within + that; relation. A few men own capital, and that few avoid labor + themselves, and with their capital hire or buy another few to labor for + them. A large majority belong to neither class—neither work for others + nor have others working for them. In most of the Southern States a + majority of the whole people of all colors are neither slaves nor + masters, while in the Northern a large majority are neither hirers nor + hired. Men, with their families-wives, sons, and daughters—work for + themselves on their farms, in their houses, and in their shops, taking + the whole product to themselves, and asking no favors of capital on the + one hand nor of hired laborers or slaves on the other. It is not + forgotten that a considerable number of persons mingle their own labor + with capital; that is, they labor with their own hands and also buy or + hire others to labor for them; but this is only a mixed and not a + distinct class. No principle stated is disturbed by the existence of + this mixed class. +</p> +<p> + Again, as has already been said, there is not of necessity any such + thing as the free hired laborer being fixed to that condition for life. + Many independent men everywhere in these States a few years back in + their lives were hired laborers. The prudent, penniless beginner in the + world labors for wages awhile, saves a surplus with which to buy tools + or land for himself, then labors on his own account another while, and + at length hires another new beginner to help him. This is the just and + generous and prosperous system which opens the way to all, gives hope to + all, and consequent energy and progress and improvement of condition to + all. No men living are more worthy to be trusted than those who toil up + from poverty; none less inclined to take or touch aught which they have + not honestly earned. Let them beware of surrendering a political power + which they already possess, and which if surrendered will surely be used + to close the door of advancement against such as they and to fix new + disabilities and burdens upon them till all of liberty shall be lost. +</p> +<p> + From the first taking of our national census to the last are seventy + years, and we find our population at the end of the period eight times + as great as it was at the beginning. The increase of those other things + which men deem desirable has been even greater. We thus have at one view + what the popular principle, applied to Government through the machinery + of the States and the Union, has produced in a given time, and also what + if firmly maintained it promises for the future. There are already among + us those who if the Union be preserved will live to see it contain + 250,000,000. The struggle <i>of</i> to-day is not altogether <i>for</i> to-day; it + is for a vast future also. With a reliance on Providence all the more + firm and earnest, let us proceed in the great task which events have + devolved upon us. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<a name="2H_4_0014"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + SPECIAL MESSAGES. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 4, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of State, in reply to + the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 31st July last, + upon the subject of increasing and extending trade and commerce of the + United States with foreign countries. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 4, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of State, in reply to + the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 13th July last, in + relation to the correspondence between this Government and foreign + nations respecting the rights of blockade, privateering, and the + recognition of the so-called Confederate States. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 5, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for its consideration with a view to + ratification, a treaty between the United States of America and His + Majesty the King of Hanover, concerning the abolition of the Stade or + Brunshausen dues, signed at Berlin on the 6th November, 1861. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 9, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of State, in reply to + the resolution of the House of the 4th instant, relative to the + intervention of certain European powers in the affairs of Mexico. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, December 14, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of your honorable body "that the + President be requested to furnish to the Senate copies of the charges, + testimony, and finding of the recent court of inquiry in the case of + Colonel Dixon S. Miles, of the United States Army," I have the honor to + transmit herewith the copies desired, which have been procured from the + War Department. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 16, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I submit to the Senate, for consideration with a view to ratification, + the amendments introduced by the Constituent National Assembly of + Bolivia in its decree of ratification into the treaty of peace, + friendship, commerce, and navigation concluded with that Republic on the + 13th of May, 1858, an official translation of which decree accompanies + this message, with the original treaty. As the time within which the + exchange of ratifications should be effected is limited, I recommend, in + view of the delay which must necessarily occur and the difficulty of + reaching the seat of Government of that Republic, that the time within + which such exchange shall take place be extended in the following terms: + "Within such period as may be mutually convenient to both Governments." +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 17, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate and House of Representatives copies of the + correspondence between the Secretary of State, Secretary of War, and the + governor of the State of Maine on the subject of the fortification of + the seacoast and Lakes. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 17, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for its advice, a copy of a draft for a + convention with the Republic of Mexico, proposed to the Government of + that Republic by Mr. Corwin, the minister of the United States + accredited to that Government, together with the correspondence relating + to it. +</p> +<p> + As the subject is of momentous interest to the two Governments at this + juncture, the early consideration of it by the Senate is very desirable. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 20, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a letter from the secretary of the executive + committee of the commission appointed to represent the interests of + those American citizens who may desire to become exhibitors at the + industrial exhibition to be held in London in 1862, and a memorial of + that commission, with a report of the executive committee thereof and + copies of circulars announcing the decisions of Her Majesty's + commissioners in London, giving directions to be observed in regard to + articles intended for exhibition, and also of circular forms of + application, demands for space, approvals, etc., according to the rules + prescribed by the British commissioners. +</p> +<p> + As these papers fully set forth the requirements necessary to enable + those citizens of the United States who may wish to become exhibitors to + avail themselves of the privileges of the exhibition, I commend them to + your early consideration, especially in view of the near approach of the + time when the exhibition will begin. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 23, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the House of Representatives of the + 13th July last, requesting information respecting the Asiatic cooly + trade, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State, with the + documents which accompanied it. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 30, 1861</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a correspondence which has taken place between + the Secretary of State and authorities of Great Britain and France on + the subject of the recent removal of certain citizens<a href="#note-3"><small>3</small></a> of the United + States from the British mail steamer <i>Trent</i> by order of Captain Wilkes, + in command of the United States war steamer <i>San Jacinto</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 2, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of a letter to the Secretary of State from + James R. Partridge, secretary to the executive committee to the + industrial exhibition to be held in London in the course of the present + year, and a copy of the correspondence to which it refers, relative to a + vessel for the purpose of taking such articles as persons in this + country may wish to exhibit on that occasion. As it appears that no + naval vessel can be spared for the purpose, I recommend that authority + be given to charter a suitable merchant vessel, in order that facilities + similar to those afforded by the Government for the exhibition of 1851 + may also be extended to those citizens of the United States who may + desire to contribute to the exhibition of this year. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>January 2, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, a + treaty concluded on the 15th November, 1861, between William W. Ross, + agent on the part of the United States, and the chiefs and headmen of + the tribe of Pottawatomie Indians, with accompanying communications from + the Secretary of the Interior and Commissioner of Indian Affairs, the + latter of which proposes certain modifications of said treaty, which are + also referred for the consideration of the Senate. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 10, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a translation of an instruction to the minister + of His Majesty the Emperor of Austria accredited to this Government, and + a copy of a note to that minister from the Secretary of State, relative + to the questions involved in the taking from the British steamer <i>Trent</i> + of certain citizens of the United States by order of Captain Wilkes, + of the United States Navy. This correspondence may be considered as a + sequel to that previously communicated to Congress relating to the same + subject. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 17, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a translation of an instruction to the minister + of His Majesty the King of Prussia accredited to this Government, and a + copy of a note to that minister from the Secretary of State, relating to + the capture and detention of certain citizens of the United States, + passengers on board the British steamer <i>Trent</i> by order of Captain + Wilkes, of the United States Navy. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>January 17, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith, for the consideration of the Senate, a petition of + certain members of the Pottawatomie tribe of Indians, complaining of the + treaty made by W. W. Ross on the 15th November last with that tribe, + which treaty was laid before the Senate for its constitutional action in + my communication to that body dated the 6th [3d] instant. +</p> +<p> + A letter of the 16th instant from the Secretary of the Interior, + inclosing a report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs dated the 15th + instant, in relation to the subject, is also herewith transmitted. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>January, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith, for the constitutional action of the Senate, + articles of agreement and convention concluded at Niobrara, Nebraska + Territory, on the 14th day of November, 1860, between J. Shaw Gregory, + agent on the part of the United States, and the chiefs and headmen of + the Poncas tribe of Indians, being supplementary to the treaty with said + tribe made on the 12th day of March, 1858. +</p> +<p> + I also transmit a letter, dated the 4th instant, from the Secretary of + the Interior, inclosing a copy of a report of the Commissioner of Indian + Affairs of the 20th September, 1861, in relation to the subject. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 24, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I submit to Congress the accompanying copy of a correspondence between + the Secretary of State, the Spanish minister, and the Secretary of the + Navy, concerning the case of the bark <i>Providencia</i>, a Spanish vessel + seized on her voyage from Havana to New York by a steamer of the United + States Blockading Squadron and subsequently released. I recommend the + appropriation of the amount of the award of the referee. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 24, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I lay before the Senate a dispatch which has just been received from Mr. + Corwin, our minister to Mexico. It communicates important information + concerning the war which is waged against Mexico by the combined powers + of Spain, France, and Great Britain. +</p> +<p> + Mr. Corwin asks instructions by which to regulate his proceedings so as + to save our national interests in the case of an adjustment of the + difficulties between the belligerents. I have heretofore submitted to + the Senate a request for its advice upon the question pending by treaty + for making a loan to Mexico, which Mr. Corwin thinks will in any case be + expedient. It seems to be my duty now to solicit an early action of the + Senate upon the subject, to the end that I may cause such instructions + to be given to Mr. Corwin as will enable him to act in the manner which, + while it will most carefully guard the interests of our country, will at + the same time be most beneficial to Mexico. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 28, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I submit to the Senate, for its consideration with a view to + ratification, a treaty of extradition concluded by Mr. Corwin with the + Mexican Government on the 11th of December last. +</p> +<p> + I also submit a postal convention concluded by that gentleman at the + same time, and a copy of his dispatch of the 24th of the same month + explanatory of the provisions of both these instruments, and the reasons + for the nonratification by Mexico of the postal convention concluded in + this city on the 31st of July last and approved by the Senate on the 6th + of August. +</p> +<p> + A copy of a letter from the Postmaster-General to the Secretary of State + in relation to Mr. Corwin's postal convention is also herewith + communicated. The advice of the Senate as to the expediency of accepting + that convention as a substitute for the one of the 31st of July last is + requested. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 31, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + As a sequel to the correspondence on the subject previously + communicated, I transmit to Congress extracts from a dispatch of the + 20th ultimo from Mr. Adams, United States minister at London, to the + Secretary of State, and a copy of an instruction from Earl Russell to + Lord Lyons of the 10th instant, relative to the removal of certain + citizens of the United States from the British mail steamer <i>Trent</i> by + order of the commander of the United States war steamer <i>San Jacinto</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON CITY, <i>February 4, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + The third section of the "Act further to promote the efficiency of the + Navy," approved December 21, 1861, provides— +</p> +<p class="q"> + That the President of the United States, by and with the advice and + consent of the Senate, shall have the authority to detail from the + retired list of the Navy for the command of squadrons and single ships + such officers as he may believe that the good of the service requires + to be thus placed in command; and such officers may, if upon the + recommendation of the President of the United States they shall receive + a vote of thanks of Congress for their services and gallantry in action + against an enemy, be restored to the active list, and not otherwise. +</p> +<p> + In conformity with this law, Captain Samuel F. Du Pont, of the Navy, was + nominated to the Senate for continuance as the flag-officer in command + of the squadron which recently rendered such important service to the + Union in the expedition to the coast of South Carolina. +</p> +<p> + Believing that no occasion could arise which would more fully correspond + with the intention of the law or be more pregnant with happy influence + as an example, I cordially recommend that Captain Samuel F. Du Pont + receive a vote of thanks of Congress for his services and gallantry + displayed in the capture of Forts Walker and Beauregard, commanding the + entrance of Port Royal Harbor, on the 7th of November, 1861. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 7, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 5th instant, requesting + a communication of any recent correspondence relating to the + presentation of American citizens to the Court of France, I transmit a + copy of a dispatch of the 14th ultimo from the United States minister at + Paris to the Secretary of State and of an instruction of Mr. Seward to + Mr. Dayton of the 3d instant. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 12, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of a special treaty between the United + States and His Majesty the King of Hanover for the abolition of the + Stade dues, which was signed at Berlin on the 6th of November last. In + this treaty, already approved by the Senate and ratified on the part of + the United States, it is stipulated that the sums specified in Articles + III and IV to be paid to the Hanoverian Government shall be paid at + Berlin on the day of the exchange of ratifications. I therefore + recommend that seasonable provision be made to enable the Executive to + carry this stipulation into effect. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON CITY, <i>February 15, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + The third section of the "Act further to promote the efficiency of the + Navy," approved December 21, 1861, provides— +</p> +<p class="q"> + That the President of the United States, by and with the advice and + consent of the Senate, shall have the authority to detail from the + retired list of the Navy for the command of squadrons and single ships + such officers as he may believe that the good of the service requires to + be thus placed in command; and such officers may, if upon the + recommendation of the President of the United States they shall receive + a vote of thanks of Congress for their services and gallantry in action + against an enemy, be restored to the active list, and not otherwise. +</p> +<p> + In conformity with this law, Captain Louis M. Goldsborough, of the Navy, + was nominated to the Senate for continuance as the flag-officer in + command of the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, which recently + rendered such important service to the Union in the expedition to the + coast of North Carolina. +</p> +<p> + Believing that no occasion could arise which would more fully correspond + with the intention of the law or be more pregnant with happy influence + as an example, I cordially recommend that Captain Louis M. Goldsborough + receive a vote of thanks of Congress for his services and gallantry + displayed in the combined attack of the forces commanded by him and + Brigadier-General Burnside in the capture of Roanoke Island and the + destruction of rebel gunboats on the 7th, 8th, and 10th of February, + 1862. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 21, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + The President of the United States was last evening plunged into + affliction by the death of a beloved child. The heads of the + Departments, in consideration of this distressing event, have thought it + would be agreeable to Congress and to the American people that the + official and private buildings occupied by them should not be + illuminated in the evening of the 22d instant. +</p> +<p class="r"> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD.<br> + S.P. CHASE.<br> + EDWIN M. STANTON.<br> + GIDEON WELLES.<br> + CALEB B. SMITH.<br> + M. BLAIR.<br> + EDWARD BATES. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 25, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of an instruction from Prince Gortchakoff + to Mr. De Stoeckl, the minister of His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of + Russia accredited to this Government, and of a note of the Secretary of + State to the latter, relative to the adjustment of the question between + the United States and Great Britain growing out of the removal of + certain of our citizens from the British mail steamer <i>Trent</i> by order + of the commander of the United States war steamer <i>San Jacinto</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 26, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In transmitting to Congress the accompanying copy of two letters, + bearing date the 14th of February, 1861, from His Majesty the Major King + of Siam to the President of the United States, and of the President's + answer thereto, I submit for their consideration the question as to the + proper place of deposit of the gifts received with the royal letters + referred to. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 27, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + Lieutenant-General Scott has advised me that while he would cheerfully + accept a commission as additional minister to Mexico, with a view to + promote the interests of the United States and of peace, yet his + infirmities are such that he could not be able to reach the capital of + that country by any existing mode of travel, and he therefore deems it + his duty to decline the important mission I had proposed for him. For + this reason I withdraw the nomination in this respect heretofore + submitted to the Senate. It is hardly necessary to add that the + nomination was made without any knowledge of it on his part. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 3, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of a dispatch to the Secretary of State + from the minister resident of the United States at Lisbon, concerning + recent measures which have been adopted by the Government of Portugal + intended to encourage the growth and to enlarge the area of the culture + of cotton in its African possessions. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 3, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a translation of an instruction to the minister + of His Majesty the King of Italy accredited to this Government, and a + copy of a note to that minister from the Secretary of State, relating to + the settlement of the question arising out of the capture and detention + of certain citizens of the United States, passengers on board the + British steamer <i>Trent</i>, by order of Captain Wilkes, of the United + States Navy. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 3, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate a translation of a note addressed to the + Secretary of State on the 1st instant by General P. A. Herran, envoy + extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary of the Granadian + Confederation, with a translation of the communication accompanying that + note from the special commissioner of that Republic, together with a + copy of a letter from the special commissioner of the United States of + the 26th ultimo, under the convention of the 10th September, 1857, + setting forth the impracticability of disposing of the cases submitted + to the joint commission now in session under the convention within the + period prescribed therein. +</p> +<p> + I recommend, therefore, that the Senate consent to the extension of time + for —— days from and after the expiration of the time limited by the + convention. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 3, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a communication<a href="#note-4"><small>4</small></a> of the Secretary of War, + inclosing a report of the Adjutant-General, in answer to a resolution of + the House of Representatives of the 22d of January, 1862. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 5, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I submit to the Senate, for its consideration, a copy of a message + addressed to that body by my immediate predecessor on the 12th February, + 1861, relating to the award made by the joint commission under the + convention between the United States and Paraguay of the 4th February, + 1859, together with the original "journal of the proceedings" of the + commission and a printed copy of the "statements and arguments—and for + the Republic," and request the advice of the Senate as to the final + acquiescence in or rejection of the award of the commissioner by the + Government of the United States. As the "journal" is an original + document, pertaining to the archives of the Department of State, it + is proper, when the Senate shall have arrived at a conclusion on the + subject, that the volume be returned to the custody of the Secretary + of State. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + MARCH 6, 1862. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I recommend the adoption of a joint resolution by your honorable bodies, + which shall be substantially as follows: +</p> +<p class="q"> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the United States ought to cooperate with any State + which may adopt gradual abolishment of slavery, giving to such State + pecuniary aid, to be used by such State, in its discretion, to + compensate for the inconveniences, public and private, produced by such + change of system. +</p> +<p> + If the proposition contained in the resolution does not meet the + approval of Congress and the country, there is the end; but if it does + command such approval, I deem it of importance that the States and + people immediately interested should be at once distinctly notified of + the fact, so that they may begin to consider whether to accept or reject + it. The Federal Government would find its highest interest in such a + measure, as one of the most efficient means of self-preservation. The + leaders of the existing insurrection entertain the hope that this + Government will ultimately be forced to acknowledge the independence of + some part of the disaffected region, and that all the slave States north + of such part will then say, "The Union for which we have struggled being + already gone, we now choose to go with the Southern section." To deprive + them of this hope substantially ends the rebellion, and the initiation + of emancipation completely deprives them of it as to all the States + initiating it. The point is not that <i>all</i> the States tolerating slavery + would very soon, if at all, initiate emancipation; but that while the + offer is equally made to all, the more northern shall by such initiation + make it certain to the more southern that in no event will the former + ever join the latter in their proposed confederacy. I say "initiation" + because, in my judgment, gradual and not sudden emancipation is better + for all. In the mere financial or pecuniary view any member of Congress + with the census tables and Treasury reports before him can readily see + for himself how very soon the current expenditures of this war would + purchase, at fair valuation, all the slaves in any named State. Such a + proposition on the part of the General Government sets up no claim of a + right by Federal authority to interfere with slavery within State + limits, referring, as it does, the absolute control of the subject in + each case to the State and its people immediately interested. It is + proposed as a matter of perfectly free choice with them. +</p> +<p> + In the annual message last December I thought fit to say "the Union must + be preserved, and hence all indispensable means must be employed." I + said this not hastily, but deliberately. War has been made and continues + to be an indispensable means to this end. A practical reacknowledgment + of the national authority would render the war unnecessary, and it would + at once cease. If, however, resistance continues, the war must also + continue; and it is impossible to foresee all the incidents which may + attend and all the ruin which may follow it. Such as may seem + indispensable or may obviously promise great efficiency toward ending + the struggle must and will come. +</p> +<p> + The proposition now made (though an offer only), I hope it may be + esteemed no offense to ask whether the pecuniary consideration tendered + would not be of more value to the States and private persons concerned + than are the institution and property in it in the present aspect of + affairs. +</p> +<p> + While it is true that the adoption of the proposed resolution would be + merely initiatory, and not within itself a practical measure, it is + recommended in the hope that it would soon lead to important practical + results. In full view of my great responsibility to my God and to my + country, I earnestly beg the attention of Congress and the people to the + subject. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>March 7, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith, for the constitutional action of the Senate + thereon, a treaty concluded at Paola, Kans., on the 18th day of August, + between Seth Clover, commissioner on the part of the United States, and + the delegates of the united tribes of Kaskaskia and Peoria, Piankeshaw, + and Wea Indians. +</p> +<p> + I also transmit a communication of the Secretary of the Interior of the + 6th instant and accompanying papers from the Acting Commissioner of + Indian Affairs, in relation to the subject. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 12, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 11th instant, + requesting "a copy of any correspondence on the records or files of the + Department of State in regard to railway systems in Europe," I transmit + a report from the Secretary of State and the papers by which it was + accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 14, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + With reference to my recent message on the subject of claims of citizens + of the United States on the Government of Paraguay, I transmit a copy of + three memorials of the claimants and of their closing arguments in the + case, together with extracts from a dispatch from Mr. Bowlin, the late + commissioner of the United States to that country. These extracts show + that President Lopez offered and expected to pay a large sum of money as + a compromise of the claims. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 14, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I submit to Congress the accompanying copy of a correspondence between + the Secretary of State, the Danish chargé d'affaires, and the Secretary + of the Navy, concerning the case of the bark <i>Jorgen Lorentzen</i>, a + Danish vessel seized on her voyage from Rio Janeiro to Havana by the + United States ship <i>Morning Light</i> and subsequently released. I recommend + the appropriation of the amount of the award of the referees. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON CITY, <i>March 20, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + The third section of the "Act further to promote the efficiency of the + Navy," approved December 21, 1861, provides— +</p> +<p class="q"> + That the President of the United States, by and with the advice and + consent of the Senate, shall have the authority to detail from the + retired list of the Navy for the command of squadrons and single ships + such officers as he may believe that the good of the service requires to + be thus placed in command; and such officers may, if upon the + recommendation of the President of the United States they shall receive + a vote of thanks of Congress for their services and gallantry in action + against an enemy, be restored to the active list, and not otherwise. +</p> +<p> + In conformity with this law, Captain Samuel F. Du Pont, of the Navy, was + nominated to the Senate for continuance as the flag-officer in command + of the squadron which recently rendered such important service to the + Union in the expedition to the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia, and + Florida. +</p> +<p> + Believing that no occasion could arise which would more fully correspond + with the intention of the law or be more pregnant with happy influence + as an example, I cordially recommend that Captain Samuel F. Du Pont + receive a vote of thanks of Congress for his service and gallantry + displayed in the capture since the 21st December, 1861, of various + points on the coasts of Georgia and Florida, particularly Brunswick, + Cumberland Island and Sound, Amelia Island, the towns of St. Marys, St. + Augustine, and Jacksonville and Fernandina. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 26, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit a copy of a communication<a href="#note-5"><small>5</small></a> of the 21st of December last + addressed to the Secretary of State by the governor of the Territory of + Nevada, and commend to the particular attention of Congress those parts + of it which show that further legislation is desirable for the public + welfare in that quarter. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 31, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for its consideration with a view to + ratification, a treaty of commerce and navigation between the United + States and the Ottoman Empire, signed at Constantinople on the 25th of + last month. Extracts from a dispatch of the same date, upon the subject + of the treaty, from Mr. Morris, the United States minister at + Constantinople, to the Secretary of State, are also herewith + communicated. +</p> +<p> + It will be noticed that the exchange of ratifications is to take place + within three months from the date of the instrument. This renders it + desirable that the Senate should decide in regard to it as soon as this + may be convenient, for if that decision be favorable the ratifications + of this Government must reach Constantinople prior to the expiration of + the three months adverted to. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 5, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the House of Representatives of + yesterday, requesting any information which may have been received at + the Department of State showing the system of revenue and finance now + existing in any foreign country, I transmit a copy of a recent dispatch + from Mr. Pike, the United States minister at The Hague. This is + understood to be the only information on the subject of the resolution + recently received which has not been made public. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 10, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for its consideration with a view to + ratification, a treaty between the United States and Her Britannic + Majesty for the suppression of the slave trade. A copy of the + correspondence between the Secretary of State and Lord Lyons on the + subject of the treaty is also herewith transmitted. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 14, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the House of Representatives of the + 3d ultimo, requesting information in regard to the present condition of + Mexico, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State and the + documents by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 15, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + On the 26th of June, 1860, the Senate approved of the treaty of + friendship and commerce between the United States and Nicaragua, signed + on the 16th of March, 1859, with certain amendments. +</p> +<p> + On the next day, namely, June 27, 1860, the Senate adopted a resolution + extending the period for the exchange of the ratifications of the treaty + for six months from that date; that is, until the 27th of December, + 1860. +</p> +<p> + Although the amendments of the Senate were immediately transmitted to + our minister in Nicaragua for submission to the Government of that + Republic, he failed, notwithstanding earnest efforts, to induce that + Government to call an extra session of Congress to take into + consideration the amendments of the Senate of the United States within + the supplementary time named in the resolution of June 27, 1860, for the + exchange of ratifications. +</p> +<p> + It was not until the 25th of March, 1861, nearly three months after the + expiration of the six months extended by the Senate resolution, that the + Congress of Nicaragua acted favorably upon the amendments of the Senate + of the United States. +</p> +<p> + A translation of the decree of the Nicaraguan Government approving the + treaty as amended, with an additional amendment, is herewith inclosed. +</p> +<p> + It will be perceived that while the ratification of Nicaragua recites + literally the second amendment of the Senate and accepts it with an + additional clause, it does not in explicit terms accept the first + amendment of the Senate, striking out the last clause of the sixteenth + article. +</p> +<p> + That amendment is of so much importance that the adoption or rejection + of it by the Government of Nicaragua should not be left to construction + or inference. +</p> +<p> + The final amendment of that Government properly extended the time of + exchanging ratifications for an additional twelve months. That time has + expired. For obvious reasons connected with our internal affairs, the + subject has not sooner been submitted to the Senate, but the treaty is + now laid before that body, with this brief historical sketch and the + decree of the Nicaraguan Government, for such further advice as may be + deemed necessary and proper in regard to the acceptance or rejection of + the amendments of Nicaragua. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 15, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In consequence of the delay attending the approval by the Senate of the + extradition treaty with Mexico signed on the 11th December last, it is + impossible to effect the exchange of ratifications of that and the + postal convention of the same date within the period assigned by those + instruments. +</p> +<p> + I recommend, therefore, the passage of a resolution at the earliest + practicable moment extending the time specified in the eighth article of + the extradition treaty and in the twelfth article of the postal + convention for the exchange of ratifications for sixty days from and + after the 11th June next, the date of the expiration of the period named + for that purpose in both instruments. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>April 15, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith, for the consideration and such constitutional + action as the Senate may deem proper to take, a treaty negotiated on the + 6th March, 1861, between late Agent Vanderslice, on the part of the + United States, and certain delegates of the Sac and Fox of the Missouri + and the Iowa tribes of Indians; also certain petitions of said tribes, + praying that the treaty may be ratified with an amendment as set forth + in said petitions. A letter of the Secretary of the Interior, with a + report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs and letter of the present + agent of the Indians, accompany the treaty and petitions. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + APRIL 16, 1862. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + The act entitled "An act for the release of certain persons held to + service or labor in the District of Columbia" has this day been approved + and signed. +</p> +<p> + I have never doubted the constitutional authority of Congress to abolish + slavery in this District, and I have ever desired to see the national + capital freed from the institution in some satisfactory way. Hence there + has never been in my mind any question upon the subject except the one + of expediency, arising in view of all the circumstances. If there be + matters within and about this act which might have taken a course or + shape more satisfactory to my judgment, I do not attempt to specify + them. I am gratified that the two principles of compensation and + colonization are both recognized and practically applied in the act. +</p> +<p> + In the matter of compensation, it is provided that claims may be + presented within ninety days from the passage of the act, "but not + thereafter;" and there is no saving for minors, femes covert, insane or + absent persons. I presume this is an omission by mere oversight, and I + recommend that it be supplied by an amendatory or supplemental act. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 18, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of a correspondence between the Secretary + of State and Benjamin E. Brewster, of Philadelphia, relative to the + arrest in that city of Simon Cameron, late Secretary of War, at the suit + of Pierce Butler, for trespass <i>vi et armis</i>, assault and battery, and + false imprisonment. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, April 24, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In obedience to your resolution of the 17th instant, I herewith + communicate the testimony and judgment of the recent naval court of + inquiry in the case of Lieutenant Charles E. Fleming, of the United + States Navy; also the testimony and finding of the naval retiring board + in the case of the said Lieutenant Fleming. +</p> +<p> + I have the honor to state that the judgment and finding aforesaid have + not been approved by me. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 26, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the House of Representatives of the + 24th of February last, requesting information in regard to insurgent + privateers in foreign ports, I transmit a report from the Secretary of + State and the documents by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, May 1, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate in relation to + Brigadier-General Stone, I have the honor to state that he was arrested + and imprisoned under my general authority, and upon evidence which, + whether he be guilty or innocent, required, as appears to me, such + proceedings to be had against him for the public safety. I deem it + incompatible with the public interest, as also, perhaps, unjust to + General Stone, to make a more particular statement of the evidence. +</p> +<p> + He has not been tried because in the state of military operations at the + time of his arrest and since the officers to constitute a court-martial + and for witnesses could not be withdrawn from duty without serious + injury to the service. He will be allowed a trial without any + unnecessary delay, the charges and specifications will be furnished him + in due season, and every facility for his defense will be afforded him + by the War Department. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, May 1, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In accordance with the suggestion of the Secretary of the Treasury + contained in the accompanying letter, I have the honor to transmit the + inclosed petition and report thereon of the Third Auditor for the + consideration of Congress. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>May 14, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + The third section of the "Act further to promote the efficiency of the + Navy," approved 21st of December, 1861, provides— +</p> +<p class="q"> + That the President of the United States, by and with the advice and + consent of the Senate, shall have the authority to detail from the + retired list of the Navy for the command of squadrons and single ships + such officers as he may believe that the good of the service requires + to be thus placed in command; and such officers may, if upon the + recommendation of the President of the United States they shall receive + a vote of thanks of Congress for their services and gallantry in action + against an enemy, be restored to the active list, and not otherwise. +</p> +<p> + In conformity with this law, Captain David G. Farragut was nominated to + the Senate for continuance as the flag-officer in command of the + squadron which recently rendered such important service to the Union by + his successful operations on the Lower Mississippi and capture of New + Orleans. +</p> +<p> + Believing that no occasion could arise which would more fully correspond + with the intention of the law or be more pregnant with happy influence + as an example, I cordially recommend that Captain D.G. Farragut receive + a vote of thanks of Congress for his services and gallantry displayed in + the capture since 21st December, 1861, of Forts Jackson and St. Philip, + city of New Orleans, and the destruction of various rebel gunboats, + rams, etc. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>May 14, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I submit herewith a list of naval officers who commanded vessels engaged + in the recent brilliant operations of the squadron commanded by + Flag-Officer Farragut, which led to the capture of Forts Jackson and St. + Philip, city of New Orleans, and the destruction of rebel gunboats, + rams, etc., in April, 1862. For their services and gallantry on those + occasions I cordially recommend that they should by name receive a vote + of thanks of Congress. +</p> +<center> + LIST. +</center> +<p><br> + Captain Theodorus Bailey.<br> + Captain Henry W. Morris.<br> + Captain Thomas T. Craven.<br> + Commander Henry H. Bell.<br> + Commander Samuel Phillips Lee.<br> + Commander Samuel Swartwout.<br> + Commander Melancton Smith.<br> + Commander Charles Stewart Boggs.<br> + Commander John De Camp.<br> + Commander James Alden.<br> + Commander David D. Porter.<br> + Commander Richard Wainwright.<br> + Commander William B. Renshaw.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding Abram D. Harrell.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding Edward Donaldson.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding George H. Preble.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding Edward T. Nichols.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding Jonathan M. Wainwright.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding John Guest.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding Charles H.B. Caldwell.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding Napoleon B. Harrison.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding Albert N. Smith.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding Pierce Crosby.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding George M. Ransom.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding Watson Smith.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding John H. Russell.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding Walter W. Queen.<br> + Lieutenant Commanding K. Randolph Breese.<br> + Acting Lieutenant Commanding Selim E. Woodworth.<br> + Acting Lieutenant Commanding Charles H. Baldwin. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE OFFICE, <i>May, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith, for the constitutional action of the Senate, a + treaty negotiated on the 13th of March, 1862, between H.W. Farnsworth, + a commissioner on the part of the United States, and the authorized + representatives of the Kansas tribe of Indians. +</p> +<p> + A communication from the Secretary of the Interior, together with + a letter of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, suggesting certain + amendments to the treaty and inclosing papers relating thereto, are + also transmitted. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>May 21, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 14th instant, + requesting information in regard to arrests in the State of Kentucky, I + transmit a report from the Secretary of War, to whom the resolution was + referred. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>May 22, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the House of Representatives of the + 20th instant, requesting information in regard to the indemnity obtained + by the consul-general of the United States at Alexandria, Egypt, for the + maltreatment of Faris-El-Hakim, an agent in the employ of the American + missionaries in that country, I transmit a report from the Secretary of + State and the documents by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>May 23, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit a report from the Secretary of State, in answer to the + resolution of the House of Representatives of the 22d instant, calling + for further correspondence relative to Mexican affairs. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + [The same message was sent to the Senate, in answer to a resolution + of that body.] +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>May 26, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + The insurrection which is yet existing in the United States and + aims at the overthrow of the Federal Constitution and the Union was + clandestinely prepared during the winter of 1860 and 1861, and assumed + an open organization in the form of a treasonable provisional government + at Montgomery, in Alabama, on the 18th day of February, 1861. On the + 12th day of April, 1861, the insurgents committed the flagrant act of + civil war by the bombardment and capture of Fort Sumter, which cut off + the hope of immediate conciliation. Immediately afterwards all the roads + and avenues to this city were obstructed, and the capital was put into + the condition of a siege. The mails in every direction were stopped, and + the lines of telegraph cut off by the insurgents, and military and naval + forces which had been called out by the Government for the defense of + Washington were prevented from reaching the city by organized and + combined treasonable resistance in the State of Maryland. There was no + adequate and effective organization for the public defense. Congress had + indefinitely adjourned. There was no time to convene them. It became + necessary for me to choose whether, using only the existing means, + agencies, and processes which Congress had provided, I should let the + Government fall at once into ruin or whether, availing myself of the + broader powers conferred by the Constitution in cases of insurrection, + I would make an effort to save it, with all its blessings, for the + present age and for posterity. +</p> +<p> + I thereupon summoned my constitutional advisers, the heads of all the + Departments, to meet on Sunday, the 20th day of April, 1861, at the + office of the Navy Department, and then and there, with their unanimous + concurrence, I directed that an armed revenue cutter should proceed to + sea to afford protection to the commercial marine, and especially the + California treasure ships then on their way to this coast. I also + directed the commandant of the navy-yard at Boston to purchase or + charter and arm as quickly as possible five steamships for purposes + of public defense. I directed the commandant of the navy-yard at + Philadelphia to purchase or charter and arm an equal number for the same + purpose. I directed the commandant at New York to purchase or charter + and arm an equal number. I directed Commander Gillis to purchase or + charter and arm and put to sea two other vessels. Similar directions + were given to Commodore Du Pont, with a view to the opening of passages + by water to and from the capital. I directed the several officers to + take the advice and obtain the aid and efficient services in the matter + of His Excellency Edwin D. Morgan, the governor of New York, or in his + absence George D. Morgan, William M. Evarts, R.M. Blatchford, and Moses + H. Grinnell, who were by my directions especially empowered by the + Secretary of the Navy to act for his Department in that crisis in + matters pertaining to the forwarding of troops and supplies for the + public defense. +</p> +<p> + On the same occasion I directed that Governor Morgan and Alexander + Cummings, of the city of New York, should be authorized by the Secretary + of War, Simon Cameron, to make all necessary arrangements for the + transportation of troops and munitions of war, in aid and assistance of + the officers of the Army of the United States, until communication by + mails and telegraph should be completely reestablished between the + cities of Washington and New York. No security was required to be given + by them, and either of them was authorized to act in case of inability + to consult with the other. +</p> +<p> + On the same occasion I authorized and directed the Secretary of the + Treasury to advance, without requiring security, $2,000,000 of public + money to John A. Dix, George Opdyke, and Richard M. Blatchford, of New + York, to be used by them in meeting such requisitions as should be + directly consequent upon the military and naval measures necessary for + the defense and support of the Government, requiring them only to act + without compensation and to report their transactions when duly called + upon. The several Departments of the Government at that time contained + so large a number of disloyal persons that it would have been impossible + to provide safely through official agents only for the performance of + the duties thus confided to citizens favorably known for their ability, + loyalty, and patriotism. +</p> +<p> + The several orders issued upon these occurrences were transmitted by + private messengers, who pursued a circuitous way to the seaboard cities, + inland across the States of Pennsylvania and Ohio and the northern + lakes. I believe that by these and other similar measures taken in that + crisis, some of which were without any authority of law, the Government + was saved from overthrow. I am not aware that a dollar of the public + funds thus confided without authority of law to unofficial persons was + either lost or wasted, although apprehensions of such misdirection + occurred to me as objections to those extraordinary proceedings, and + were necessarily overruled. +</p> +<p> + I recall these transactions now because my attention has been directed + to a resolution which was passed by the House of Representatives on the + 30th day of last month, which is in these words: +</p> +<p class="q"> + <i>Resolved</i>, That Simon Cameron, late Secretary of War, by investing + Alexander Cummings with the control of large sums of the public money + and authority to purchase military supplies without restriction, without + requiring from him any guaranty for the faithful performance of his + duties, when the services of competent public officers were available, + and by involving the Government in a vast number of contracts with + persons not legitimately engaged in the business pertaining to the + subject-matter of such contracts, especially in the purchase of arms + for future delivery, has adopted a policy highly injurious to the + public service, and deserves the censure of the House. +</p> +<p> + Congress will see that I should be wanting equally in candor and in + justice if I should leave the censure expressed in this resolution to + rest exclusively or chiefly upon Mr. Cameron. The same sentiment is + unanimously entertained by the heads of Departments who participated + in the proceedings which the House of Representatives has censured. + It is due to Mr. Cameron to say that although he fully approved the + proceedings they were not moved nor suggested by himself, and that not + only the President, but all the other heads of Departments, were at + least equally responsible with him for whatever error, wrong, or fault + was committed in the premises. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>May 30, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for its consideration with a view to + ratification, a treaty of amity, commerce, consular privileges, and + extradition between the United States and the Republic of Salvador, + signed in this city on the 29th instant. It is believed that though + this instrument contains no stipulation which may not be found in some + subsisting treaty between the United States and foreign powers, it will + prove to be mutually advantageous. Several of the Republics of this + hemisphere, among which is Salvador, are alarmed at a supposed sentiment + tending to reactionary movements against republican institutions on this + continent. It seems, therefore, to be proper that we should show to + any of them who may apply for that purpose that, compatibly with our + cardinal policy and with an enlightened view of our own interests, we + are willing to encourage them by strengthening our ties of good will + and good neighborhood with them. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>June 4, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 29th ultimo, + adopted in executive session, requesting information in regard to + the claims of citizens of the United States on Paraguay and the + correspondence relating thereto, I transmit a report from the Secretary + of State and the documents by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>June 4, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report of the Secretary of War, in answer to + the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 2d of June, in + relation to the authority and action of the Hon. Edward Stanly, military + governor of North Carolina. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>June 10, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of a treaty for the suppression of the + African slave trade, between the United States and Her Britannic + Majesty, signed in this city on the 7th of April last, and the + ratifications of which were exchanged at London on the 20th ultimo. +</p> +<p> + A copy of the correspondence which preceded the conclusion of the + instrument between the Secretary of State and Lord Lyons, Her Britannic + Majesty's envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary, is also + herewith transmitted. +</p> +<p> + It is desirable that such legislation as may be necessary to carry the + treaty into effect should be enacted as soon as may comport with the + convenience of Congress. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, June 12, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Honorable House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In obedience to the resolution of your honorable body of the 9th + instant, requesting certain information in regard to the circuit court + of the United States for the State of California, and the judge of said + court, I have the honor to transmit a letter of the Attorney-General, + with copies of two other letters and of an indorsement of my own upon + one of them; all which, taken together, contain all the information + within my power to give upon the subject. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, June 13, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith transmit a memorial addressed and presented to me in behalf + of the State of New York in favor of enlarging the locks of the Erie and + Oswego Canal. While I have not given nor have leisure to give the + subject a careful examination, its great importance is obvious and + unquestionable. The large amount of valuable statistical information + which is collated and presented in the memorial will greatly facilitate + the mature consideration of the subject, which I respectfully ask for it + at your hands. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington City, June 17, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>The Speaker of the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + The resolution of the House of Representatives of the 9th instant, + asking whether any legislation is necessary in order to give effect to + the provisions of the act of April 16, 1862, providing for the + reorganization of the Medical Department of the Army, was referred to + the Secretary of War, whose report thereon is herewith communicated. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>June 23, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + On the 7th day of December, 1861, I submitted to the Senate the project + of a treaty between the United States and Mexico which had been proposed + to me by Mr. Corwin, our minister to Mexico, and respectfully requested + the advice of the Senate thereupon. +</p> +<p> + On the 25th day of February last a resolution was adopted by the Senate + to the effect "that it is not advisable to negotiate a treaty that will + require the United States to assume any portion of the principal or + interest of the debt of Mexico, or that will require the concurrence of + European powers." +</p> +<p> + This resolution having been duly communicated to me, notice thereof was + immediately given by the Secretary of State to Mr. Corwin, and he was + informed that he was to consider his instructions upon the subject + referred to modified by this resolution and would govern his course + accordingly. That dispatch failed to reach Mr. Corwin, by reason of the + disturbed condition of Mexico, until a very recent date, Mr. Corwin + being without instructions, or thus practically left without + instructions, to negotiate further with Mexico. +</p> +<p> + In view of the very important events occurring there, he has thought + that the interests of the United States would be promoted by the + conclusion of two treaties which should provide for a loan to that + Republic. He has therefore signed such treaties, and they having been + duly ratified by the Government of Mexico he has transmitted them to me + for my consideration. The action of the Senate is of course conclusive + against an acceptance of the treaties on my part. I have, nevertheless, + thought it just to our excellent minister in Mexico and respectful to + the Government of that Republic to lay the treaties before the Senate, + together with the correspondence which has occurred in relation to them. + In performing this duty I have only to add that the importance of the + subject thus submitted to the Senate can not be overestimated, and I + shall cheerfully receive and consider with the highest respect any + further advice the Senate may think proper to give upon the subject. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, June 26, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + The accompanying treaty, made and concluded at the city of Washington on + the 24th day of June, 1862, between the United States and the united + bands of the Ottawa Indians of Blanchards Fork and of Roche de Boeuf, in + Kansas, is transmitted for the consideration and constitutional action + of the Senate, agreeably to recommendation of inclosed letter from the + Secretary of the Interior of this date. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 1, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I most cordially recommend that Captain Andrew H. Foote, of the United + States Navy, receive a vote of thanks of Congress for his eminent + services in organizing the flotilla on the Western waters, and for his + gallantry at Fort Henry, Fort Donelson, Island No. 10, and at various + other places, whilst in command of the naval forces, embracing a period + of nearly ten months. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>July 5, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith, for the constitutional action of the Senate + thereon, a treaty negotiated in this city on the 3d instant with the Sac + and Fox Indians of the Mississippi. +</p> +<p> + Letters from the Secretary of the Interior and Commissioner of Indian + Affairs accompany the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 9, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for consideration with a view to ratification, + a postal convention with Costa Rica, concluded at San Jose on the 9th + June last. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>July 11, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, a + treaty negotiated at the Kickapoo Agency on the 28th of June, 1862, + between Charles B. Keith, commissioner on the part of the United States, + and the chiefs, headmen, and delegates of the Kickapoo Indians of + Kansas. +</p> +<p> + A letter of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs of the 10th instant is + also transmitted, suggesting amendments to the treaty for the + consideration of the Senate. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>July 11, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I recommend that the thanks of Congress be given to the following + officers of the United States Navy: +</p> +<p> + Captain James L. Lardner, for meritorious conduct at the battle of Port + Royal and distinguished services on the coast of the United States + against the enemy. +</p> +<p> + Captain Charles Henry Davis, for distinguished services in conflict with + the enemy at Fort Pillow, at Memphis, and for successful operations at + other points in the waters of the Mississippi River. +</p> +<p> + Commander John A. Dahlgren, for distinguished services in the line of + his profession, improvements in ordnance, and zealous and efficient + labors in the ordnance branch of the service. +</p> +<p> + Commander Stephen C. Rowan, for distinguished services in the waters of + North Carolina, and particularly in the capture of Newbern, being in + chief command of the naval forces. +</p> +<p> + Commander David D. Porter, for distinguished services in the conception + and preparation of the means used for the capture of the forts below New + Orleans, and for highly meritorious conduct in the management of the + mortar flotilla during the bombardment of Forts Jackson and St. Philip. +</p> +<p> + Captain Silas H. Stringham, now on the retired list, for distinguished + services in the capture of Forts Hatteras and Clark. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 12, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit a report of the Secretary of State upon the subject of the + resolution of the House of Representatives of the 9th ultimo, requesting + information in regard to the relations between the United States and + foreign powers. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>July 14, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + Herewith is a draft of a bill to compensate any State which may abolish + slavery within its limits, the passage of which substantially as + presented I respectfully and earnestly recommend. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p class="q"> + <i>Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United + States of America in Congress assembled</i>, That whenever the President of + the United States shall be satisfied that any State shall have lawfully + abolished slavery within and throughout such State, either immediately + or gradually, it shall be the duty of the President, assisted by the + Secretary of the Treasury, to prepare and deliver to such State an + amount of 6 per cent interest-bearing bonds of the United States equal + to the aggregate value at $—— per head of all the slaves within such + State as reported by the census of the year 1860; the whole amount for + any one State to be delivered at once if the abolishment be immediate, + or in equal annual installments if it be gradual, interest to begin + running on each bond at the time of its delivery, and not before. +</p><p class="q"> + <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That if any State, having so received any + such bonds, shall at any time afterwards by law reintroduce or tolerate + slavery within its limits contrary to the act of abolishment upon which + such bonds shall have been received, said bonds so received by said + State shall at once be null and void, in whosesoever hands they may be, + and such State shall refund to the United States all interest which may + have been paid on such bonds. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, July 15, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> +Hon. SOLOMON FOOT,<br> + <i>President pro tempore of the Senate</i>. +</p> +<p> + SIR: Please inform the Senate that I shall be obliged if they will + postpone the adjournment at least one day beyond the time which I + understand to be now fixed for it. +</p> +<p> + Your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + [The same message was addressed to Hon. Calusha A. Crow, Speaker of the + House of Representatives.] +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + JULY 17, 1862. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + Considering the bill for "An act to suppress insurrection, to punish + treason and rebellion, to seize and confiscate the property of rebels, + and for other purposes," and the joint resolution explanatory of said + act as being substantially one, I have approved and signed both. +</p> +<p> + Before I was informed of the passage of the resolution I had prepared + the draft of a message stating objections to the bill becoming a law, + a copy of which draft is herewith transmitted. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p class="q"> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the House of Representatives</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + I herewith return to your honorable body, in which it originated, the + bill for an act entitled "An act to suppress treason and rebellion, to + seize and confiscate the property of rebels, and for other purposes," + together with my objections to its becoming a law. +</p><p class="q"> + There is much in the bill to which I perceive no objection. It is wholly + prospective, and touches neither person nor property of any loyal + citizen, in which particulars it is just and proper. The first and + second sections provide for the conviction and punishment of persons who + shall be guilty of treason and persons who shall "incite, set on foot, + assist, or engage in any rebellion or insurrection against the authority + of the United States or the laws thereof, or shall give aid and comfort + thereto, or shall engage in or give aid and comfort to any such existing + rebellion or insurrection." By fair construction persons within these + sections are not to be punished without regular trials in duly + constituted courts, under the forms and all the substantial provisions + of law and of the Constitution applicable to their several cases. To + this I perceive no objection, especially as such persons would be within + the general pardoning power and also the special provision for pardon + and amnesty contained in this act. +</p><p class="q"> + It is also provided that the slaves of persons convicted under these + sections shall be free. I think there is an unfortunate form of + expression rather than a substantial objection in this. It is startling + to say that Congress can free a slave within a State, and yet if it were + said the ownership of the slave had first been transferred to the nation + and that Congress had then liberated him the difficulty would at once + vanish. And this is the real case. The traitor against the General + Government forfeits his slave at least as justly as he does any other + property, and he forfeits both to the Government against which he + offends. The Government, so far as there can be ownership, thus owns the + forfeited slaves, and the question for Congress in regard to them is, + "Shall they be made free or be sold to new masters?" I perceive no + objection to Congress deciding in advance that they shall be free. To + the high honor of Kentucky, as I am informed, she has been the owner of + some slaves by escheat and has sold none, but liberated all. I hope the + same is true of some other States. Indeed I do not believe it would be + physically possible for the General Government to return persons so + circumstanced to actual slavery. I believe there would be physical + resistance to it which could neither be turned aside by argument nor + driven away by force. In this view I have no objection to this feature + of the bill. Another matter involved in these two sections, and running + through other parts of the act, will be noticed hereafter. +</p><p class="q"> + I perceive no objection to the third and fourth sections. +</p><p class="q"> + So far as I wish to notice the fifth and sixth sections, they may be + considered together. That the enforcement of these sections would do no + injustice to the persons embraced within them is clear. That those who + make a causeless war should be compelled to pay the cost of it is too + obviously just to be called in question. To give governmental protection + to the property of persons who have abandoned it and gone on a crusade + to overthrow that same government is absurd if considered in the mere + light of justice. The severest justice may not always be the best + policy. The principle of seizing and appropriating the property of the + persons embraced within these sections is certainly not very + objectionable, but a justly discriminating application of it would be + very difficult, and to a great extent impossible. And would it not be + wise to place a power of remission somewhere, so that these persons may + know they have something to lose by persisting and something to save by + desisting? I am not sure whether such power of remission is or is not + within section 13. +</p><p class="q"> + Without any special act of Congress, I think our military commanders, + when, in military phrase, "they are within the enemy's country," should + in an orderly manner seize and use whatever of real or personal property + may be necessary or convenient for their commands, at the same time + preserving in some way the evidence of what they do. +</p><p class="q"> + What I have said in regard to slaves while commenting on the first and + second sections is applicable to the ninth, with the difference that no + provision is made in the whole act for determining whether a particular + individual slave does or does not fall within the classes defined in + that section. He is to be free upon certain conditions, but whether + those conditions do or do not pertain to him no mode of ascertaining is + provided. This could be easily supplied. +</p><p class="q"> + To the tenth section I make no objection. The oath therein required + seems to be proper, and the remainder of the section is substantially + identical with a law already existing. +</p><p class="q"> + The eleventh section simply assumes to confer discretionary powers upon + the Executive. Without the law I have no hesitation to go as far in the + direction indicated as I may at any time deem expedient. And I am ready + to say now, I think it is proper for our military commanders to employ + as laborers as many persons of African descent as can be used to + advantage. +</p><p class="q"> + The twelfth and thirteenth sections are somewhat better than + objectionable, and the fourteenth is entirely proper if all other parts + of the act shall stand. +</p><p class="q"> + That to which I chiefly object pervades most parts of the act, but more + distinctly appears in the first, second, seventh, and eighth sections. + It is the sum of those provisions which results in the divesting of + title forever. For the causes of treason and the ingredients of treason + not amounting to the full crime it declares forfeiture extending beyond + the lives of the guilty parties, whereas the Constitution of the United + States declares that "no attainder of treason shall work corruption of + blood, or forfeiture except during the life of the person attainted." + True, there seems to be no formal attainder in this case; still, I think + the greater punishment can not be constitutionally inflicted in a + different form for the same offense. With great respect I am constrained + to say I think this feature of the act is unconstitutional. It would not + be difficult to modify it. +</p><p class="q"> + I may remark that this provision of the Constitution, put in language + borrowed from Great Britain, applies only in this country to real or + landed estate. +</p><p class="q"> + Again, this act, by proceedings <i>in rem</i>, forfeits property for the + ingredients of treason without a conviction of the supposed criminal or + a personal hearing given him in any proceeding. That we may not touch + property lying within our reach because we can not give personal notice + to an owner who is absent endeavoring to destroy the Government is + certainly not very satisfactory. Still, the owner may not be thus + engaged; and I think a reasonable time should be provided for such + parties to appear and have personal hearings. Similar provisions are not + uncommon in connection with proceedings <i>in rem</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + For the reasons stated, I return the bill to the House, in which it + originated. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + JULY 17, 1862. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I have inadvertently omitted so long to inform you that in March last + Mr. Cornelius Vanderbilt, of New York, gratuitously presented to the + United States the ocean steamer <i>Vanderbilt</i>, by many esteemed the + finest merchant ship in the world. She has ever since been and still is + doing valuable service to the Government. For the patriotic act in + making this magnificent and valuable present to the country, I recommend + that some suitable acknowledgment be made. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0015"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + VETO MESSAGES. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + JUNE 23, 1862. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + The bill which has passed the House of Representatives and the Senate + entitled "An act to repeal that part of an act of Congress which prohibits + the circulation of bank notes of a less denomination than $5 in the + District of Columbia" has received my attentive consideration, and I + now return it to the Senate, in which it originated, with the following + objections: +</p> +<p> + 1. The bill proposes to repeal the existing legislation prohibiting the + circulation of bank notes of a less denomination than $5 within the + District of Columbia without permitting the issuing of such bills by + banks not now legally authorized to issue them. In my judgment it will + be found impracticable in the present condition of the currency to make + such a discrimination. The banks have generally suspended specie + payments, and a legal sanction given to the circulation of the + irredeemable notes of one class of them will almost certainly be so + extended in practical operation as to include those of all classes, + whether authorized or unauthorized. If this view be correct, the + currency of the District, should this act become a law, will certainly + and greatly deteriorate, to the serious injury of honest trade and + honest labor. +</p> +<p> + 2. This bill seems to contemplate no end which can not be otherwise more + certainly and beneficially attained. During the existing war it is + peculiarly the duty of the National Government to secure to the people a + sound circulating medium. This duty has been under existing + circumstances satisfactorily performed, in part at least, by authorizing + the issue of United States notes, receivable for all Government dues + except customs, and made a legal tender for all debts, public and + private, except interest on public debt. The object of the bill + submitted to me, namely, that of providing a small-note currency during + the present suspension, can be fully accomplished by authorizing the + issue, as part of any new emission of United States notes made necessary + by the circumstances of the country, of notes of a similar character but + of less denomination than $5. Such an issue would answer all the + beneficial purposes of the bill, would save a considerable amount to the + Treasury in interest, would greatly facilitate payments to soldiers and + other creditors of small sums, and would furnish to the people a + currency as safe as their own Government. +</p> +<p> + Entertaining these objections to the bill, I feel myself constrained to + withhold from it my approval and return it for the further consideration + and action of Congress. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>July 2, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith return to your honorable body, in which it originated, an act + entitled "An act to provide for additional medical officers of the + volunteer service," without my approval. +</p> +<p> + My reason for so doing is that I have approved an act of the same title + passed by Congress after the passage of the one first mentioned for the + express purpose of correcting errors in and superseding the same, as I + am informed. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0016"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + PROCLAMATIONS. +</h2> +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + It is recommended to the people of the United States that they assemble + in their customary places of meeting for public solemnities on the 22d + day of February instant and celebrate the anniversary of the birth of + the Father of his Country by causing to be read to them his immortal + Farewell Address. +</p> +<p> + Given under my hand and the seal of the United States, at Washington, + the 19th day of February, A.D. 1862, and of the Independence of the + United States of America the eighty-sixth. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + It has pleased Almighty God to vouchsafe signal victories to the land + and naval forces engaged in suppressing an internal rebellion, and at + the same time to avert from our country the dangers of foreign + intervention and invasion. +</p> +<p> + It is therefore recommended to the people of the United States that at + their next weekly assemblages in their accustomed places of public + worship which shall occur after notice of this proclamation shall have + been received they especially acknowledge and render thanks to our + Heavenly Father for these inestimable blessings, that they then and + there implore spiritual consolation in behalf of all who have been + brought into affliction by the casualties and calamities of sedition and + civil war, and that they reverently invoke the divine guidance for our + national counsels, to the end that they may speedily result in the + restoration of peace, harmony, and unity throughout our borders and + hasten the establishment of fraternal relations among all the countries + of the earth. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 10th day of April, A.D. 1862, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty sixth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas by my proclamation of the 19th of April, 1861, it was declared + that the ports of certain States, including those of Beaufort, in the + State of North Carolina; Port Royal, in the State of South Carolina; and + New Orleans, in the State of Louisiana, were, for reasons therein set + forth, intended to be placed under blockade; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the said ports of Beaufort, Port Royal, and New Orleans have + since been blockaded; but as the blockade of the same ports may now be + safely relaxed with advantage to the interests of commerce: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States, pursuant to the authority in me vested by the fifth + section of the act of Congress approved on the 13th of July last, + entitled "An act further to provide for the collection of duties on + imports, and for other purposes," do hereby declare that the blockade of + the said ports of Beaufort, Port Royal, and New Orleans shall so far + cease and determine, from and after the 1st day of June next, that + commercial intercourse with those ports, except as to persons, things, + and information contraband of war, may from that time be carried on + subject to the laws of the United States and to the limitations and in + pursuance of the regulations which are prescribed by the Secretary of + the Treasury in his order of this date, which is appended to this + proclamation. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 12th day of May, A.D. 1862, and of + the Independence of the United States the eighty-sixth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + REGULATIONS RELATING TO TRADE WITH PORTS OPENED BY PROCLAMATION. +</h3> +<p class="r"> + TREASURY DEPARTMENT, <i>May 12, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + 1. To vessels clearing from foreign ports and destined to ports opened + by the proclamation of the President of the United States of this date, + namely, Beaufort, in North Carolina; Port Royal, in South Carolina, and + New Orleans, in Louisiana, licenses will be granted by consuls of the + United States upon satisfactory evidence that the vessels so licensed + will convey no persons, property, or information contraband of war + either to or from the said ports, which licenses shall be exhibited to + the collector of the port to which said vessels may be respectively + bound immediately on arrival, and, if required, to any officer in charge + of the blockade; and on leaving either of said ports every vessel will + be required to have a clearance from the collector of the customs, + according to law, showing no violation of the conditions of the license. + Any violation of said conditions will involve the forfeiture and + condemnation of the vessel and cargo and the exclusion of all parties + concerned from any further privilege of entering the United States + during the war for any purpose whatever. +</p> +<p> + 2. To vessels of the United States clearing coastwise for the ports + aforesaid licenses can only be obtained from the Treasury Department. +</p> +<p> + 3. In all other respects the existing blockade remains in full force and + effect as hitherto established and maintained, nor is it relaxed by the + proclamation except in regard to the ports to which the relaxation is by + that instrument expressly applied. +</p> +<p class="r"> +S.P. CHASE,<br> + <i>Secretary of the Treasury</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas there appears in the public prints what purports to be a + proclamation of Major-General Hunter, in the words and figures + following, to wit: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE SOUTH,<br> + <i>Hilton Head, S.C., May 9, 1862</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + <i>General Orders, No. 11</i>.—The three States of Georgia, Florida, and + South Carolina, comprising the Military Department of the South, having + deliberately declared themselves no longer under the protection of the + United States of America, and having taken up arms against the said + United States, it becomes a military necessity to declare them under + martial law. This was accordingly done on the 25th day of April, 1862. + Slavery and martial law in a free country are altogether incompatible; + the persons in these three States—Georgia, Florida, and South + Carolina—heretofore held as slaves are therefore declared forever free. +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + DAVID HUNTER,<br> + <i>Major-General Commanding</i>.<br> + Official: +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + ED. W. SMITH,<br> + <i>Acting Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> + And whereas the same is producing some excitement and misunderstanding: +</p> +<p> + Therefore I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, proclaim + and declare that the Government of the United States had no knowledge, + information, or belief of an intention on the part of General Hunter to + issue such a proclamation, nor has it yet any authentic information that + the document is genuine; and, further, that neither General Hunter nor + any other commander or person has been authorized by the Government of + the United States to make proclamations declaring the slaves of any + State free, and that the supposed proclamation now in question, whether + genuine or false, is altogether void so far as respects such + declaration. +</p> +<p> + I further make known that whether it be competent for me, as Commander + in Chief of the Army and Navy, to declare the slaves of any State or + States free, and whether at any time, in any case, it shall have become + a necessity indispensable to the maintenance of the Government to + exercise such supposed power, are questions which, under my + responsibility, I reserve to myself, and which I can not feel justified + in leaving to the decision of commanders in the field. These are totally + different questions from those of police regulations in armies and + camps. +</p> +<p> + On the 6th day of March last, by a special message, I recommended to + Congress the adoption of a joint resolution to be substantially as + follows: +</p> +<p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the United States ought to cooperate with any State + which may adopt a gradual abolishment of slavery, giving to such State + pecuniary aid, to be used by such State, in its discretion, to + compensate for the inconveniences, public and private, produced by such + change of system. +</p> +<p> + The resolution, in the language above quoted, was adopted by large + majorities in both branches of Congress, and now stands an authentic, + definite, and solemn proposal of the nation to the States and people + most immediately interested in the subject-matter. To the people of + those States I now earnestly appeal—I do not argue; I beseech you to + make the arguments for yourselves; you can not, if you would, be blind + to the signs of the times. I beg of you a calm and enlarged + consideration of them, ranging, if it may be, far above personal and + partisan politics. This proposal makes common cause for a common object, + casting no reproaches upon any. It acts not the Pharisee. The change it + contemplates would come gently as the dews of heaven, not rending or + wrecking anything. Will you not embrace it? So much good has not been + done by one effort in all past time as, in the providence of God, it is + now your high privilege to do. May the vast future not have to lament + that you have neglected it. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal + of the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 19th day of May, A.D. 1862, and of + the Independence of the United States the eighty-sixth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas in and by the second section of an act of Congress passed on the + 7th day of June, A.D. 1862, entitled "An act for the collection of + direct taxes in insurrectionary districts within the United States, and + for other purposes," it is made the duty of the President to declare, on + or before the 1st day of July then next following, by his proclamation, + in what States and parts of States insurrection exists: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States of America, do hereby declare and proclaim that the States + of South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, Texas, + Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, North Carolina, and the State of + Virginia except the following counties—Hancock, Brooke, Ohio, Marshall, + Wetzel, Marion, Monongalia, Preston, Taylor, Pleasants, Tyler, Ritchie, + Doddridge, Harrison, Wood, Jackson, Wirt, Roane, Calhoun, Gilmer, + Barbour, Tucker, Lewis, Braxton, Upshur, Randolph, Mason, Putnam, + Kanawha, Clay, Nicholas, Cabell, Wayne, Boone, Logan, Wyoming, Webster, + Fayette, and Raleigh—are now in insurrection and rebellion, and by + reason thereof the civil authority of the United States is obstructed so + that the provisions of the "Act to provide increased revenue from + imports, to pay the interest on the public debt, and for other + purposes," approved August 5, 1861, can not be peaceably executed; and + that the taxes legally chargeable upon real estate under the act last + aforesaid lying within the States and parts of States as aforesaid, + together with a penalty of 50 <i>per centum</i> of said taxes, shall be a + lien upon the tracts or lots of the same, severally charged, till paid. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 1st day of July, A.D. 1862, and of + the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-sixth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + F.W. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Acting Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + In pursuance of the sixth section of the act of Congress entitled "An + act to suppress insurrection and to punish treason and rebellion, to + seize and confiscate property of rebels, and for other purposes," + approved July 17, 1862, and which act and the joint resolution + explanatory thereof are herewith published, I, Abraham Lincoln, + President of the United States, do hereby proclaim to and warn all + persons within the contemplation of said sixth section to cease + participating in, aiding, countenancing, or abetting the existing + rebellion or any rebellion against the Government of the United States + and to return to their proper allegiance to the United States on pain of + the forfeitures and seizures as within and by said sixth section + provided. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 25th day of July, A.D. 1862, and of + the Independence of the United States the eighty-seventh. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + [From Statutes at Large (Little, Brown & Co.), Vol. XII, p. 589.] +</center> +<p> + AN ACT to suppress insurrection, to punish treason and rebellion, to + seize and confiscate the property of rebels, and for other purposes. +</p> +<p> + <i>Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United + States of America in Congress assembled</i>, That every person who shall + hereafter commit the crime of treason against the United States, and + shall be adjudged guilty thereof, shall suffer death, and all his + slaves, if any, shall be declared and made free; or, at the discretion + of the court, he shall be imprisoned for not less than five years and + fined not less than $10,000, and all his slaves, if any, shall be + declared and made free; said fine shall be levied and collected on any + or all of the property, real and personal, excluding slaves, of which + the said person so convicted was the owner at the time of committing the + said crime, any sale or conveyance to the contrary notwithstanding. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 2. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That if any person shall hereafter + incite, set on foot, assist, or engage in any rebellion or insurrection + against the authority of the United States or the laws thereof, or shall + give aid or comfort thereto, or shall engage in or give aid and comfort + to any such existing rebellion or insurrection, and be convicted + thereof, such person shall be punished by imprisonment for a period not + exceeding ten years, or by a fine not exceeding $10,000, and by the + liberation of all his slaves, if any he have; or by both of said + punishments, at the discretion of the court. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 3. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That every person guilty of either + of the offenses described in this act shall be forever incapable and + disqualified to hold any office under the United States. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 4. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That this act shall not be + construed in any way to affect or alter the prosecution, conviction, or + punishment of any person or persons guilty of treason against the United + States before the passage of this act, unless such person is convicted + under this act. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 5. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That to insure the speedy + termination of the present rebellion it shall be the duty of the + President of the United States to cause the seizure of all the estate + and property, money, stocks, credits, and effects of the persons + hereinafter named in this section, and to apply and use the same and the + proceeds thereof for the support of the Army of the United States; that + is to say: +</p> +<p> + First. Of any person hereafter acting as an officer of the army or navy + of the rebels in arms against the Government of the United States. +</p> +<p> + Secondly. Of any person hereafter acting as president, vice-president, + member of congress, judge of any court, cabinet officer, foreign + minister, commissioner, or consul of the so-called Confederate States of + America. +</p> +<p> + Thirdly. Of any person acting as governor of a State, member of a + convention or legislature, or judge of any court of any of the so-called + Confederate States of America. +</p> +<p> + Fourthly. Of any person who, having held an office of honor, trust, or + profit in the United States, shall hereafter hold an office in the + so-called Confederate States of America. +</p> +<p> + Fifthly. Of any person hereafter holding any office or agency under the + government of the so-called Confederate States of America, or under any + of the several States of the said Confederacy, or the laws thereof, + whether such office or agency be national, State, or municipal in its + name or character: <i>Provided</i>, That the persons thirdly, fourthly, and + fifthly above described shall have accepted their appointment or + election since the date of the pretended ordinance of secession of the + State, or shall have taken an oath of allegiance to or to support the + constitution of the so-called Confederate States. +</p> +<p> + Sixthly. Of any person who, owning property in any loyal State or + Territory of the United States, or in the District of Columbia, shall + hereafter assist and give aid and comfort to such rebellion; and all + sales, transfers, or conveyances of any such property shall be null and + void; and it shall be a sufficient bar to any suit brought by such + person for the possession or the use of such property, or any of it, to + allege and prove that he is one of the persons described in this + section. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 6. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That if any person within any State + or Territory of the United States, other than those named as aforesaid, + after the passage of this act, being engaged in armed rebellion against + the Government of the United States, or aiding or abetting such + rebellion, shall not, within sixty days after public warning and + proclamation duly given and made by the President of the United States, + cease to aid, countenance, and abet such rebellion, and return to his + allegiance to the United States, all the estate and property, moneys, + stocks, and credits of such person shall be liable to seizure as + aforesaid, and it shall be the duty of the President to seize and use + them as aforesaid, or the proceeds thereof. And all sales, transfers, or + conveyances of any such property after the expiration of the said sixty + days from the date of such warning and proclamation shall be null and + void; and it shall be a sufficient bar to any suit brought by such + person for the possession or the use of such property, or any of it, to + allege and prove that he is one of the persons described in this + section. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 7. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That to secure the condemnation and + sale of any of such property, after the same shall have been seized, so + that it may be made available for the purpose aforesaid, proceedings <i>in + rem</i> shall be instituted in the name of the United States in any + district court thereof, or in any Territorial court, or in the United + States district court for the District of Columbia, within which the + property above described, or any part thereof, may be found, or into + which the same, if movable, may first be brought, which proceedings + shall conform as nearly as may be to proceedings in admiralty or revenue + cases; and if said property, whether real or personal, shall be found to + have belonged to a person engaged in rebellion, or who has given aid or + comfort thereto, the same shall be condemned as enemies' property and + become the property of the United States, and may be disposed of as the + court shall decree and the proceeds thereof paid into the Treasury of + the United States for the purposes aforesaid. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 8. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That the several courts aforesaid + shall have power to make such orders, establish such forms of decree and + sale, and direct such deeds and conveyances to be executed and delivered + by the marshals thereof where real estate shall be the subject of sale + as shall fitly and efficiently effect the purposes of this act, and vest + in the purchasers of such property good and valid titles thereto. And + the said courts shall have power to allow such fees and charges of their + officers as shall be reasonable and proper in the premises. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 9. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That all slaves of persons who + shall hereafter be engaged in rebellion against the Government of the + United States, or who shall in any way give aid or comfort thereto, + escaping from such persons and taking refuge within the lines of the + army, and all slaves captured from such persons or deserted by them and + coming under the control of the Government of the United States, and all + slaves of such persons found on [or] being within any place occupied by + rebel forces and afterwards occupied by the forces of the United States, + shall be deemed captives of war, and shall be forever free of their + servitude, and not again held as slaves. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 10. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That no slave escaping into any + State, Territory, or the District of Columbia from any other State shall + be delivered up or in any way impeded or hindered of his liberty except + for crime or some offense against the laws, unless the person claiming + said fugitive shall first make oath that the person to whom the labor or + service of such fugitive is alleged to be due is his lawful owner and + has not borne arms against the United States in the present rebellion + nor in any way given aid and comfort thereto; and no person engaged in + the military or naval service of the United States shall, under any + pretense whatever, assume to decide on the validity of the claim of any + person to the service or labor of any other person, or surrender up any + such person to the claimant, on pain of being dismissed from the + service. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 11. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That the President of the United + States is authorized to employ as many persons of African descent as he + may deem necessary and proper for the suppression of this rebellion, and + for this purpose he may organize and use them in such manner as he may + judge best for the public welfare. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 12. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That the President of the United + States is hereby authorized to make provision for the transportation, + colonization, and settlement, in some tropical country beyond the limits + of the United States, of such persons of the African race, made free by + the provisions of this act, as may be willing to emigrate, having first + obtained the consent of the Government of said country to their + protection and settlement within the same, with all the rights and + privileges of freemen. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 13. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That the President is hereby + authorized, at any time hereafter, by proclamation, to extend to persons + who may have participated in the existing rebellion in any State or part + thereof pardon and amnesty, with such exceptions and at such time and on + such conditions as he may deem expedient for the public welfare. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 14. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That the courts of the United + States shall have full power to institute proceedings, make orders and + decrees, issue process, and do all other things necessary to carry this + act into effect. +</p> +<p> + Approved, July 17, 1862. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [From Statutes at Large (Little, Brown & Co.), Vol. XII, p. 627.] +</center> +<p> + JOINT RESOLUTION explanatory of "An act to suppress insurrection, to + punish treason and rebellion, to seize and confiscate the property of + rebels, and for other purposes." +</p> +<p> + <i>Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United + States of America in Congress assembled</i>, That the provisions of the + third clause of the fifth section of "An act to suppress insurrection, + to punish treason and rebellion, to seize and confiscate the property of + rebels, and for other purposes" shall be so construed as not to apply to + any act or acts done prior to the passage thereof, nor to include any + member of a State legislature or judge of any State court who has not in + accepting or entering upon his office taken an oath to support the + constitution of the so-called "Confederate States of America;" nor shall + any punishment or proceedings under said act be so construed as to work + a forfeiture of the real estate of the offender beyond his natural life. +</p> +<p> + Approved, July 17, 1862. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States of America and + Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy thereof, do hereby proclaim and + declare that hereafter, as heretofore, the war will be prosecuted for + the object of practically restoring the constitutional relation between + the United States and each of the States and the people thereof in which + States that relation is or may be suspended or disturbed. +</p> +<p> + That it is my purpose, upon the next meeting of Congress, to again + recommend the adoption of a practical measure tendering pecuniary aid to + the free acceptance or rejection of all slave States, so called, the + people whereof may not then be in rebellion against the United States, + and which States may then have voluntarily adopted, or thereafter may + voluntarily adopt, immediate or gradual abolishment of slavery within + their respective limits; and that the effort to colonize persons of + African descent with their consent upon this continent or elsewhere, + with the previously obtained consent of the governments existing there, + will be continued. +</p> +<p> + That on the 1st day of January, A.D. 1863, all persons held as slaves + within any State or designated part of a State the people whereof shall + then be in rebellion against the United States shall be then, + thenceforward, and forever free; and the executive government of the + United States, including the military and naval authority thereof, will + recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons and will do no act or + acts to repress such persons, or any of them, in any efforts they may + make for their actual freedom. +</p> +<p> + That the Executive will on the 1st day of January aforesaid, by + proclamation, designate the States and parts of States, if any, in which + the people thereof, respectively, shall then be in rebellion against the + United States; and the fact that any State or the people thereof shall + on that day be in good faith represented in the Congress of the United + States by members chosen thereto at elections wherein a majority of the + qualified voters of such State shall have participated shall, in the + absence of strong countervailing testimony, be deemed conclusive + evidence that such State and the people thereof are not then in + rebellion against the United States. +</p> +<p> + That attention is hereby called to an act of Congress entitled "An act + to make an additional article of war," approved March 13, 1862, and + which act is in the words and figure following: +</p> +<p class="q"> + <i>Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United + States of America in Congress assembled</i>, That hereafter the following + shall be promulgated as an additional article of war for the government + of the Army of the United States, and shall be obeyed and observed as + such: +</p><p class="q"> + ART.—. All officers or persons in the military or naval service of the + United States are prohibited from employing any of the forces under + their respective commands for the purpose of returning fugitives from + service or labor who may have escaped from any persons to whom such + service or labor is claimed to be due, and any officer who shall be + found guilty by a court-martial of violating this article shall be + dismissed from the service. +</p><p class="q"> + SEC. 2. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That this act shall take effect + from and after its passage. +</p> +<p> + Also to the ninth and tenth sections of an act entitled "An act to + suppress insurrection, to punish treason and rebellion, to seize and + confiscate the property of rebels, and for other purposes," approved + July 17, 1862, and which sections are in the words and figures + following: +</p> +<p class="q"> + SEC. 9. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That all slaves of persons who + shall hereafter be engaged in rebellion against the Government of the + United States, or who shall in any way give aid or comfort thereto, + escaping from such persons and taking refuge within the lines of the + army, and all slaves captured from such persons or deserted by them and + coming under the control of the Government of the United States, and all + slaves of such persons found on [or] being within any place occupied by + rebel forces and afterwards occupied by the forces of the United States, + shall be deemed captives of war and shall be forever free of their + servitude and not again held as slaves. +</p><p class="q"> + SEC. 10. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That no slave escaping into any + State, Territory, or the District of Columbia from any other State shall + be delivered up or in any way impeded or hindered of his liberty except + for crime or some offense against the laws, unless the person claiming + said fugitive shall first make oath that the person to whom the labor or + service of such fugitive is alleged to be due is his lawful owner and + has not borne arms against the United States in the present rebellion + nor in any way given aid and comfort thereto; and no person engaged in + the military or naval service of the United States shall, under any + pretense whatever, assume to decide on the validity of the claim of any + person to the service or labor of any other person or surrender up any + such person to the claimant on pain of being dismissed from the service. +</p> +<p> + And I do hereby enjoin upon and order all persons engaged in the + military and naval service of the United States to observe, obey, and + enforce within their respective spheres of service the act and sections + above recited. +</p> +<p> + And the Executive will in due time recommend that all citizens of the + United States who shall have remained loyal thereto throughout the + rebellion shall, upon the restoration of the constitutional relation + between the United States and their respective States and people, if + that relation shall have been suspended or disturbed, be compensated for + all losses by acts of the United States; including the loss of slaves. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 22d day of September, A.D. 1862, + and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-seventh. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas it has become necessary to call into service not only + volunteers, but also portions of the militia of the States by draft in + order to suppress the insurrection existing in the United States, and + disloyal persons are not adequately restrained by the ordinary processes + of law from hindering this measure and from giving aid and comfort in + various ways to the insurrection: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it ordered, first, that during the existing + insurrection, and as a necessary measure for suppressing the same, all + rebels and insurgents, their aiders and abettors, within the United + States, and all persons discouraging volunteer enlistments, resisting + militia drafts, or guilty of any disloyal practice affording aid and + comfort to rebels against the authority of the United States, shall be + subject to martial law and liable to trial and punishment by + courts-martial or military commissions; second, that the writ of <i>habeas + corpus</i> is suspended in respect to all persons arrested, or who are now + or hereafter during the rebellion shall be imprisoned in any fort, camp, + arsenal, military prison, or other place of confinement by any military + authority or by the sentence of any court-martial or military + commission. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 24th day of September, A.D. 1862, + and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-seventh. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0017"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + EXECUTIVE ORDERS. +</h2> +<p class="r"> +Major-General H.W. HALLECK<br> + <i>Commanding in the Department of Missouri</i>. +</p> +<p> + GENERAL: As an insurrection exists in the United States and is in arms + in the State of Missouri, you are hereby authorized and empowered to + suspend the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> within the limits of the military + division under your command and to exercise martial law as you find it + necessary, in your discretion, to secure the public safety and the + authority of the United States. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed, at Washington, this 2d day of December, + A.D. 1861. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, NO. III. +</center> +<p class="r"> +HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, December 30, 1861</i>. +</p> +<hr> +<p> + Joint Resolution expressive of the recognition by Congress of the + gallant and patriotic services of the late Brigadier-General Nathaniel + Lyon and the officers and soldiers under his command at the battle of + Springfield, Mo. +</p> +<p class="q"> + <i>Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United + States of America in Congress assembled</i>, 1. That Congress deems it just + and proper to enter upon its records a recognition of the eminent and + patriotic services of the late Brigadier-General Nathaniel Lyon. The + country to whose service he devoted his life will guard and preserve his + fame as a part of its own glory. +</p><p class="q"> + 2. That the thanks of Congress are hereby given to the brave officers + and soldiers who, under the command of the late General Lyon, sustained + the honor of the flag and achieved victory against overwhelming numbers + at the battle of Springfield, in Missouri; and that, in order to + commemorate an event so honorable to the country and to themselves, it + is ordered that each regiment engaged shall be authorized to bear upon + its colors the word "Springfield," embroidered in letters of gold. And + the President of the United States is hereby requested to cause these + resolutions to be read at the head of every regiment in the Army of the + United States. +</p> +<p> + The President of the United States directs that the foregoing joint + resolution be read at the head of every regiment in the Army of the + United States. +</p> +<p> + By command of Major General McClellan: +</p> +<p class="r"> +L. THOMAS,<br> + <i>Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WAR DEPARTMENT, <i>January 22, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + The President, Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy, has received + information of a brilliant victory by the United States forces over a + large body of armed traitors and rebels at Mill Springs, in the State of + Kentucky. He returns thanks to the gallant officers and soldiers who won + that victory, and when the official reports shall be received the + military and personal valor displayed in battle will be acknowledged and + rewarded in a fitting manner. +</p> +<p> + The courage that encountered and vanquished the greatly superior numbers + of the rebel force, pursued and attacked them in their intrenchments, + and paused not until the enemy was completely routed merits and receives + commendation. +</p> +<p> + The purpose of this war is to attack, pursue, and destroy a rebellious + enemy and to deliver the country from danger menaced by traitors. + Alacrity, daring, courageous spirit, and patriotic zeal on all occasions + and under every circumstance are expected from the Army of the United + States. In the prompt and spirited movements and daring battle of Mill + Springs the nation will realize its hopes, and the people of the United + States will rejoice to honor every soldier and officer who proves his + courage by charging with the bayonet and storming intrenchments or in + the blaze of the enemy's fire. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + PRESIDENT'S GENERAL WAR ORDER NO. 1 +</center> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, January 27, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That the 22d day of February, 1862, be the day for a general + movement of the land and naval forces of the United States against the + insurgent forces; that especially the army at and about Fortress Monroe, + the Army of the Potomac, the Army of Western Virginia, the army near + Munfordville, Ky., the army and flotilla at Cairo, and a naval force in + the Gulf of Mexico be ready to move on that day. +</p> +<p> + That all other forces, both land and naval, with their respective + commanders, obey existing orders for the time and be ready to obey + additional orders when duly given. +</p> +<p> + That the heads of Departments, and especially the Secretaries of War and + of the Navy, with all their subordinates, and the General in Chief, with + all other commanders and subordinates of land and naval forces, will + severally be held to their strict and full responsibilities for prompt + execution of this order. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + PRESIDENT'S SPECIAL WAR ORDER NO. 1. +</center> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, January 31, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, that all the disposable force of the Army of the Potomac, + after providing safely for the defense of Washington, be formed into an + expedition for the immediate object of seizing and occupying a point + upon the railroad southwest ward of what is known as Manassas Junction; + all details to be in the discretion of the General in Chief, and the + expedition to move before or on the 22d day of February next. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, February 11, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That D.C. McCallum be, and he is hereby, appointed military + director and superintendent of railroads in the United States, with + authority to enter upon, take possession of, hold, and use all + railroads, engines, cars, locomotives, equipments, appendages, and + appurtenances that may be required for the transport of troops, arms, + ammunition, and military supplies of the United States, and to do and + perform all acts and things that may be necessary or proper to be done + for the safe and speedy transport aforesaid. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President, Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of + the United States: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WAR DEPARTMENT, <i>February 13, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, 1. That all applications to go south across the military lines + of the United States be made to Major-General John A. Dix, commanding + at Baltimore, who will grant or refuse the same at his discretion. +</p> +<p> + 2. That all prisoners of war and other persons imprisoned by authority + of any department of the Government who shall be released on parole or + exchange shall report themselves immediately on their arrival at Baltimore + to Major-General Dix and be subject to his direction while remaining + in that city. Any failure to observe this order will be taken as a + forfeiture of the parole or exchange. +</p> +<p> + The regulation heretofore existing which required passes across the + military lines of the United States to be signed by the Secretary of + State and countersigned by the General Commanding is rescinded. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 1, RELATING TO POLITICAL PRISONERS. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, February 14, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + The breaking out of a formidable insurrection based on a conflict of + political ideas, being an event without precedent in the United States, + was necessarily attended by great confusion and perplexity of the public + mind. Disloyalty before unsuspected suddenly became bold, and treason + astonished the world by bringing at once into the field military forces + superior in number to the standing Army of the United States. +</p> +<p> + Every department of the Government was paralyzed by treason. Defection + appeared in the Senate, in the House of Representatives, in the Cabinet, + in the Federal courts; ministers and consuls returned from foreign + countries to enter the insurrectionary councils or land or naval forces; + commanding and other officers of the Army and in the Navy betrayed our + councils or deserted their posts for commands in the insurgent forces. + Treason was flagrant in the revenue and in the post-office service, as + well as in the Territorial governments and in the Indian reserves. +</p> +<p> + Not only governors, judges, legislators, and ministerial officers in the + States, but even whole States rushed one after another with apparent + unanimity into rebellion. The capital was besieged and its connection + with all the States cut off. +</p> +<p> + Even in the portions of the country which were most loyal political + combinations and secret societies were formed furthering the work of + disunion, while, from motives of disloyalty or cupidity or from excited + passions or perverted sympathies, individuals were found furnishing men, + money, and materials of war and supplies to the insurgents' military and + naval forces. Armies, ships, fortifications, navy-yards, arsenals, + military posts, and garrisons one after another were betrayed or + abandoned to the insurgents. +</p> +<p> + Congress had not anticipated, and so had not provided for, the + emergency. The municipal authorities were powerless and inactive. The + judicial machinery seemed as if it had been designed, not to sustain the + Government, but to embarrass and betray it. +</p> +<p> + Foreign intervention, openly invited and industriously instigated by the + abettors of the insurrection, became imminent, and has only been + prevented by the practice of strict and impartial justice, with the most + perfect moderation, in our intercourse with nations. +</p> +<p> + The public mind was alarmed and apprehensive, though fortunately not + distracted or disheartened. It seemed to be doubtful whether the Federal + Government, which one year before had been thought a model worthy of + universal acceptance, had indeed the ability to defend and maintain + itself. +</p> +<p> + Some reverses, which, perhaps, were unavoidable, suffered by newly + levied and inefficient forces, discouraged the loyal and gave new hopes + to the insurgents. Voluntary enlistments seemed about to cease and + desertions commenced. Parties speculated upon the question whether + conscription had not become necessary to fill up the armies of the + United States. +</p> +<p> + In this emergency the President felt it his duty to employ with energy + the extraordinary powers which the Constitution confides to him in cases + of insurrection. He called into the field such military and naval + forces, unauthorized by the existing laws, as seemed necessary. He + directed measures to prevent the use of the post-office for treasonable + correspondence. He subjected passengers to and from foreign countries to + new passport regulations, and he instituted a blockade, suspended the + writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> in various places, and caused persons who were + represented to him as being or about to engage in disloyal and + treasonable practices to be arrested by special civil as well as + military agencies and detained in military custody when necessary to + prevent them and deter others from such practices. Examinations of such + cases were instituted, and some of the persons so arrested have been + discharged from time to time under circumstances or upon conditions + compatible, as was thought, with the public safety. +</p> +<p> + Meantime a favorable change of public opinion has occurred. The line + between loyalty and disloyalty is plainly defined. The whole structure + of the Government is firm and stable. Apprehension of public danger and + facilities for treasonable practices have diminished with the passions + which prompted heedless persons to adopt them. The insurrection is + believed to have culminated and to be declining. +</p> +<p> + The President, in view of these facts, and anxious to favor a return to + the normal course of the Administration as far as regard for the public + welfare will allow, directs that all political prisoners or state + prisoners now held in military custody be released on their subscribing + to a parole engaging them to render no aid or comfort to the enemies in + hostility to the United States. +</p> +<p> + The Secretary of War will, however, in his discretion, except from the + effect of this order any persons detained as spies in the service of the + insurgents, or others whose release at the present moment may be deemed + incompatible with the public safety. +</p> +<p> + To all persons who shall be so released and who shall keep their parole + the President grants an amnesty for any past offenses of treason or + disloyalty which they may have committed. +</p> +<p> + Extraordinary arrests will hereafter be made under the direction of the + military authorities alone. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + The President's Thanks to the Forces That Captured Fort Henry and + Roanoke Island. +</center> +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON CITY, D.C., <i>February 15, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + The President, Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy, returns thanks + to Brigadier-General Burnside and Flag-Officer Goldsborough, and to + Brigadier-General Grant and Flag-Officer Foote, and the land and naval + forces under their respective commands, for their gallant achievements + in the capture of Fort Henry and at Roanoke Island. While it will be no + ordinary pleasure for him to acknowledge and reward in a becoming manner + the valor of the living, he also recognizes his duty to pay fitting + honor to the memory of the gallant dead. The charge at Roanoke Island, + like the bayonet charge at Mill Springs, proves that the close grapple + and sharp steel of loyal and patriotic soldiers must always put rebels + and traitors to flight. +</p> +<p> + The late achievements of the Navy show that the flag of the Union, once + borne in proud glory around the world by naval heroes, will soon again + float over every rebel city and stronghold, and that it shall forever be + honored and respected as the emblem of liberty and union in every land + and upon every sea. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +GIDEON WELLES,<br> + <i>Secretary of the Navy</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, D.C., February 17, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + Brigadier-General F.W. LANDER: +</p> +<p> + The President directs me to say that he has observed with pleasure the + activity and enterprise manifested by yourself and the officers and + soldiers of your command. You have shown how much may be done in the + worst weather and worst roads by a spirited officer at the head of a + small force of brave men, unwilling to waste life in camp when the + enemies of their country are within reach. Your brilliant success is a + happy presage of what may be expected when the Army of the Potomac shall + be led to the field by their gallant general. +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 16. +</p> +<p class="r"> +HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, February 18, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + I. The following concurrent resolutions of the two Houses of the + Congress of the United States are published for the information of the + Army: +</p> +<p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the two Houses will assemble in the Chamber of the + House of Representatives on Saturday, the 22d day of February instant, + at 12 o'clock meridian, and that in the presence of the two Houses of + Congress thus assembled the Farewell Address of George Washington to the + people of the United States shall be read; and that the President of the + Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives be requested to + invite the President of the United States, the heads of the several + Departments, the judges of the Supreme Court, the representatives from + all foreign governments near this Government, and such officers of the + Army and Navy and distinguished citizens as may then be at the seat of + Government to be present on that occasion. +</p> +<p> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the President of the United States, Commander in Chief + of the Army and Navy, be requested to direct that orders be issued for + the reading to the Army and Navy of the United States of the Farewell + Address of George Washington, or such parts thereof as he may select, on + the 22d day of February instant. +</p> +<p> + II. In compliance with the foregoing resolutions, the President of the + United States, Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy, orders that the + following extracts from the Farewell Address of George Washington be + read to the troops at every military post and at the head of the several + regiments and corps of the Army: +</p> +<p> + Interwoven as is the love of liberty with every ligament of your hearts, + no recommendation of mine is necessary to fortify or confirm the + attachment. +</p> +<p> + The unity of government which constitutes you one people is also now + dear to you. It is justly so, for it is a main pillar in the edifice of + your real independence, the support of your tranquillity at home, your + peace abroad, of your safety, of your prosperity, of that very liberty + which you so highly prize. But as it is easy to foresee that from + different causes and from different quarters much pains will be taken, + many artifices employed, to weaken in your minds the conviction of this + truth, as this is the point in your political fortress against which the + batteries of internal and external enemies will be most constantly and + actively (though often covertly and insidiously) directed, it is of + infinite moment that you should properly estimate the immense value of + your national union to your collective and individual happiness; that + you should cherish a cordial, habitual, and immovable attachment to it; + accustoming yourselves to think and speak of it as of the palladium of + your political safety and prosperity; watching for its preservation with + jealous anxiety; discountenancing whatever may suggest even a suspicion + that it can in any event be abandoned, and indignantly frowning upon the + first dawning of every attempt to alienate any portion of our country + from the rest or to enfeeble the sacred ties which now link together the + various parts. +</p> +<p> + For this you have every inducement of sympathy and interest. Citizens by + birth or choice of a common country, that country has a right to + concentrate your affections. The name of American, which belongs to you + in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of + patriotism more than any appellation derived from local discriminations. + With slight shades of difference, you have the same religion, manners, + habits, and political principles. You have in a common cause fought and + triumphed together. The independence and liberty you possess are the + work of joint councils and joint efforts, of common dangers, sufferings, + and successes. +</p> +<hr> +<p> + While, then, every part of our country thus feels an immediate and + particular interest in union, all the parts combined can not fail to + find in the united mass of means and efforts greater strength, greater + resource, proportionably greater security from external danger, a less + frequent interruption of their peace by foreign nations, and, what is of + inestimable value, they must derive from union an exemption from those + broils and wars between themselves which so frequently afflict + neighboring countries not tied together by the same governments, which + their own rivalships alone would be sufficient to produce, but which + opposite foreign alliances, attachments, and intrigues would stimulate + and imbitter. Hence, likewise, they will avoid the necessity of those + overgrown military establishments which, under any form of government, + are inauspicious to liberty, and which are to be regarded as + particularly hostile to republican liberty. In this sense it is that + your union ought to be considered as a main prop of your liberty, and + that the love of the one ought to endear to you the preservation of the + other. +</p> +<hr> +<p> + To the efficacy and permanency of your union a government for the whole + is indispensable. No alliances, however strict, between the parts can be + an adequate substitute. They must inevitably experience the infractions + and interruptions which all alliances in all times have experienced. + Sensible of this momentous truth, you have improved upon your first + essay by the adoption of a Constitution of Government better calculated + than your former for an intimate union and for the efficacious + management of your common concerns. This Government, the offspring of + our own choice, uninfluenced and unawed, adopted upon full investigation + and mature deliberation, completely free in its principles, in the + distribution of its powers, uniting security with energy, and containing + within itself a provision for its own amendment, has a just claim to + your confidence and your support. Respect for its authority, compliance + with its laws, acquiescence in its measures, are duties enjoined by the + fundamental maxims of true liberty. The basis of our political systems + is the right of the people to make and to alter their constitutions of + government. But the constitution which at any time exists till changed + by an explicit and authentic act of the whole people is sacredly + obligatory upon all. The very idea of the power and the right of the + people to establish government presupposes the duty of every individual + to obey the established government. +</p> +<p> + All obstructions to the execution of the laws, all combinations and + associations, under whatever plausible character, with the real design + to direct, control, counteract, or awe the regular deliberation and + action of the constituted authorities, are destructive of this + fundamental principle and of fatal tendency. They serve to organize + faction; to give it an artificial and extraordinary force; to put in the + place of the delegated will of the nation the will of a party, often a + small but artful and enterprising minority of the community, and, + according to the alternate triumphs of different parties, to make the + public administration the mirror of the ill-concerted and incongruous + projects of faction rather than the organ of consistent and wholesome + plans, digested by common counsels and modified by mutual interests. +</p> +<hr> +<p> + Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, + religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that + man claim the tribute of patriotism who should labor to subvert these + great pillars of human happiness—these firmest props of the duties + of men and citizens. The mere politician, equally with the pious man, + ought to respect and to cherish them. A volume could not trace all + their connections with private and public felicity. Let it simply be + asked, Where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, + if the sense of religious obligation <i>desert</i> the oaths which are the + instruments of investigation in courts of justice? And let us with + caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without + religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education + on minds of peculiar structure, reason and experience both forbid us to + expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious + principle. +</p> +<p> + It is substantially true that virtue or morality is a necessary spring + of popular government. The rule indeed extends with more or less force + to every species of free government. Who that is a sincere friend to it + can look with indifference upon attempts to shake the foundation of the + fabric? Promote, then, as an object of primary importance, institutions + for the general diffusion of knowledge. In proportion as the structure + of a government gives force to public opinion, it is essential that + public opinion should be enlightened. +</p> +<hr> +<p> + Observe good faith and justice toward all nations. Cultivate peace and + harmony with all. Religion and morality enjoin this conduct. And can it + be that good policy does not equally enjoin it? It will be worthy of a + free, enlightened, and at no distant period a great nation to give to + mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of a people always guided + by an exalted justice and benevolence. Who can doubt that in the course + of time and things the fruits of such a plan would richly repay any + temporary advantages which might be lost by a steady adherence to it? + Can it be that Providence has not connected the permanent felicity of + a nation with its virtue? The experiment, at least, is recommended by + every sentiment which ennobles human nature. Alas! is it rendered + impossible by its vices? +</p> +<hr> +<p> + Harmony, liberal intercourse with all nations, are recommended by + policy, humanity, and interest. But even our commercial policy should + hold an equal and impartial hand, neither seeking nor granting exclusive + favors or preferences; consulting the natural course of things; + diffusing and diversifying by gentle means the streams of commerce, but + forcing nothing; establishing with powers so disposed, in order to give + trade a stable course, to define the rights of our merchants, and to + enable the Government to support them, conventional rules of + intercourse, the best that present circumstances and mutual opinion will + permit, but temporary and liable to be from time to time abandoned or + varied as experience and circumstances shall dictate; constantly keeping + in view that it is folly in one nation to look for disinterested favors + from another; that it must pay with a portion of its independence for + whatever it may accept under that character; that by such acceptance it + may place itself in the condition of having given equivalents for + nominal favors, and yet of being reproached with ingratitude for not + giving more. There can be no greater error than to expect or calculate + upon real favors from nation to nation. It is an illusion which + experience must cure, which a just pride ought to discard. +</p> +<p> + In offering to you, my countrymen, these counsels of an old and + affectionate friend I dare not hope they will make the strong and + lasting impression I could wish—that they will control the usual + current of the passions or prevent our nation from running the course + which has hitherto marked the destiny of nations. But if I may even + flatter myself that they may be productive of some partial benefit, some + occasional good—that they may now and then recur to moderate the fury + of party spirit, to warn against the mischiefs of foreign intrigue, to + guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism—this hope will be + a full recompense for the solicitude for your welfare by which they have + been dictated. +</p> +<hr> +<p> + Though in reviewing the incidents of my Administration I am unconscious + of intentional error, I am nevertheless too sensible of my defects not + to think it probable that I may have committed many errors. Whatever + they may be, I fervently beseech the Almighty to avert or mitigate the + evils to which they may tend. I shall also carry with me the hope that + my country will never cease to view them with indulgence, and that, + after forty-five years of my life dedicated to its service with an + upright zeal, the faults of incompetent abilities will be consigned to + oblivion, as myself must soon be to the mansions of rest. +</p> +<p> + Relying on its kindness in this as in other things, and actuated by that + fervent love toward it which is so natural to a man who views in it the + native soil of himself and his progenitors for several generations, I + anticipate with pleasing expectation that retreat in which I promise + myself to realize without alloy the sweet enjoyment of partaking in the + midst of my fellow-citizens the benign influence of good laws under a + free government—the ever-favorite object of my heart, and the happy + reward, as I trust, of our mutual cares, labors, and dangers. +</p> +<p> + By command of Major-General McClellan: +</p> +<p class="r"> +L. THOMAS,<br> + <i>Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, D.C., February 18, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered by the President, Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of + the United States</i>, That on the 22d day of February, in the Hall of the + House of Representatives, immediately after the Farewell Address of + George Washington shall have been read, the rebel flags lately captured + by the United States forces shall be presented to Congress by the + Adjutant-General, to be disposed of as Congress may direct. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President, +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, February 25, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, first. On and after the 26th day of February instant the + President, by virtue of the act of Congress, takes military possession + of all the telegraph lines in the United States. +</p> +<p> + Second. All telegraphic communications in regard to military operations + not expressly authorized by the War Department, the General Commanding, + or the generals commanding armies in the field, in the several + departments, are absolutely forbidden. +</p> +<p> + Third. All newspapers publishing military news, however obtained and by + whatever medium received, not authorized by the official authority + mentioned in the preceding paragraph will be excluded thereafter from + receiving information by telegraph or from transmitting their papers by + railroad. +</p> +<p> + Fourth. Edward S. Sanford is made military supervisor of telegraphic + messages throughout the United States. Anson Stager is made military + superintendent of all telegraph lines and offices in the United States. +</p> +<p> + Fifth. This possession and control of the telegraph lines is not + intended to interfere in any respect with the ordinary affairs of the + companies or with private business. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, February 27, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>It is ordered</i>, first. That a special commission of two persons, one of + military rank and the other in civil life, be appointed to examine the + cases of the state prisoners remaining in the military custody of the + United States, and to determine whether, in view of the public safety + and the existing rebellion, they should be discharged or remain in + military custody or be remitted to the civil tribunals for trial. +</p> +<p> + Second. That Major-General John A. Dix, commanding in Baltimore, and the + Hon. Edwards Pierrepont, of New York, be, and they are hereby, appointed + commissioners for the purposes above mentioned, and they are authorized + to examine, hear, and determine the cases aforesaid, <i>ex parte</i> and in a + summary manner, at such times and places as in their discretion they may + appoint, and make full report to the War Department. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</center> +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 28, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + Considering that the existing circumstances of the country allow a + partial restoration of commercial intercourse between the inhabitants of + those parts of the United States heretofore declared to be in + insurrection and the citizens of the loyal States of the Union, and + exercising the authority and discretion confided to me by the act of + Congress approved July 13, 1861, entitled "An act further to provide for + the collection of duties on imports, and for other purposes," I hereby + license and permit such commercial intercourse in all cases within the + rules and regulations which have been or may be prescribed by the + Secretary of the Treasury for the conducting and carrying on of the same + on the inland waters and ways of the United States. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + PRESIDENT'S GENERAL WAR ORDER No. 2. +</center> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, March 8, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, 1. That the major-general commanding the Army of the Potomac + proceed forthwith to organize that part of the said army destined to + enter upon active operations (including the reserve, but excluding the + troops to be left in the fortifications about Washington) into four army + corps, to be commanded according to seniority of rank, as follows: +</p> +<p> + First Corps to consist of four divisions, and to be commanded by + Major-General I. McDowell. +</p> +<p> + Second Corps to consist of three divisions, and to be commanded by + Brigadier-General E.V. Sumner. +</p> +<p> + Third Corps to consist of three divisions, and to be commanded by + Brigadier-General S.P. Heintzelman. +</p> +<p> + Fourth Corps to consist of three divisions, and to be commanded by + Brigadier-General E.D. Keyes. +</p> +<p> + 2. That the divisions now commanded by the officers above assigned to + the commands of army corps shall be embraced in and form part of their + respective corps. +</p> +<p> + 3. The forces left for the defense of Washington will be placed in + command of Brigadier-General James S. Wadsworth, who shall also be + military governor of the District of Columbia. +</p> +<p> + 4. That this order be executed with such promptness and dispatch as not + to delay the commencement of the operations already directed to be + undertaken by the Army of the Potomac. +</p> +<p> + 5. A fifth army corps, to be commanded by Major-General N.P. Banks, will + be formed from his own and General Shields's (late General Lander's) + divisions. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + PRESIDENT'S GENERAL WAR ORDER No. 3. +</center> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, March 8, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That no change of the base of operations of the Army of the + Potomac shall be made without leaving in and about Washington such a + force as in the opinion of the General in Chief and the commanders of + all the army corps shall leave said city entirely secure. +</p> +<p> + That no more than two army corps (about 50,000 troops) of said Army of + the Potomac shall be moved <i>en route</i> for a new base of operations until + the navigation of the Potomac from Washington to the Chesapeake Bay + shall be freed from enemy's batteries and other obstructions, or until + the President shall hereafter give express permission. +</p> +<p> + That any movements as aforesaid <i>en route</i> for a new base of operations + which may be ordered by the General in Chief, and which may be intended + to move upon the Chesapeake Bay, shall begin to move upon the bay as + early as the 18th day of March instant, and the General in Chief shall + be responsible that it so move as early as that day. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That the Army and Navy cooperate in an immediate effort to + capture the enemy's batteries upon the Potomac between Washington and + the Chesapeake Bay. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + PRESIDENT'S SPECIAL WAR ORDER No. 3 +</center> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, March 11, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + Major-General McClellan having personally taken the field at the head of + the Army of the Potomac, until otherwise ordered he is relieved from the + command of the other military departments, he retaining command of the + Department of the Potomac. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered further</i>, That the departments now under the respective + commands of Generals Halleck and Hunter, together with so much of that + under General Buell as lies west of a north and south line indefinitely + drawn through Knoxville, Tenn., be consolidated and designated the + Department of the Mississippi, and that until otherwise ordered + Major-General Halleck have command of said department. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered also</i>, That the country west of the Department of the Potomac + and east of the Department of the Mississippi be a military department, + to be called the Mountain Department, and that the same be commanded by + Major-General Frémont. +</p> +<p> + That all the commanders of departments, after the receipt of this order + by them, respectively report severally and directly to the Secretary of + War, and that prompt, full, and frequent reports will be expected of all + and each of them. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WAR DEPARTMENT, <i>March 13, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + Major-General GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN: +</p> +<p> + The President, having considered the plan of operations agreed upon by + yourself and the commanders of army corps, makes no objection to the + same, but gives the following directions as to its execution: +</p> +<p> + 1. Leave such force at Manassas Junction as shall make it entirely + certain that the enemy shall not repossess himself of that position and + line of communication. +</p> +<p> + 2. Leave Washington entirely secure. +</p> +<p> + 3. Move the remainder of the force down the Potomac, choosing a new base + at Fortress Monroe, or anywhere between here and there, or, at all + events, move such remainder of the army at once in pursuit of the enemy + by some route. +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + [From the Daily National Intelligencer, March 28, 1862.] +</center> +<p class="r"> + NAVY DEPARTMENT, <i>March 15, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> +Lieutenant JOHN L. WORDEN, United States Navy,<br> + <i>Commanding United States Steamer Monitor, Washington</i>. +</p> +<p> + SIR: The naval action which took place on the 10th instant between the + <i>Monitor</i> and <i>Merrimac</i> at Hampton Roads, when your vessel, with two + guns, engaged a powerful armored steamer of at least eight guns, and + after a few hours' conflict repelled her formidable antagonist, has + excited general admiration and received the applause of the whole + country. +</p> +<p> + The President directs me, while earnestly and deeply sympathizing with + you in the injuries which you have sustained, but which it is believed + are but temporary, to thank you and your command for the heroism you + have displayed and the great service you have rendered. +</p> +<p> + The action of the 10th and the performance, power, and capabilities of + the <i>Monitor</i> must effect a radical change in naval warfare. +</p> +<p> + Flag-Officer Goldsborough, in your absence, will be furnished by the + Department with a copy of this letter of thanks and instructed to cause + it to be read to the officers and crew of the <i>Monitor</i>. +</p> +<p> + I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> + GIDEON WELLES. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., April 5, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + Major-General JOHN A. DIX: +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That Major-General John A. Dix, commanding at Baltimore, be, + and he is, authorized and empowered at his discretion— +</p> +<p> + First. To assume and exercise control over the police of the city of + Baltimore; to supersede and remove the civil police or any part thereof + and establish a military police in said city. +</p> +<p> + Second. To arrest and imprison disloyal persons, declare martial law, + and suspend the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> in the city of Baltimore or any + part of his command, and to exercise and perform all military power, + function, and authority that he may deem proper for the safety of his + command or to secure obedience and respect to the authority and + Government of the United States. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + [From the Daily National Intelligencer, May 17, 1862.] +</center> +<p> + The skillful and gallant movements of Major-General John E. Wool and the + forces under his command, which resulted in the surrender of Norfolk and + the evacuation of strong batteries erected by the rebels on Sewells + Point and Craney Island and the destruction of the rebel ironclad + steamer <i>Merrimac</i>, are regarded by the President as among the most + important successes of the present war. He therefore orders that his + thanks as Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy be communicated by the + War Department to Major-General John E. Wool and the officers and + soldiers of his command for their gallantry and good conduct in the + brilliant operations mentioned. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President, made at the city of Norfolk on the 11th day + of May, 1862: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WAR DEPARTMENT, <i>May 25, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>: By virtue of the authority vested by act of Congress, the + President takes military possession of all the railroads in the United + States from and after this date until further order, and directs that + the respective railroad companies, their officers and servants, shall + hold themselves in readiness for the transportation of such troops and + munitions of war as may be ordered by the military authorities, to the + exclusion of all other business. +</p> +<p> + By order of the Secretary of War: +</p> +<p class="r"> +M.C. MEIGS,<br> + <i>Quartermaster-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., May 28, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + Colonel HAUPT: +</p> +<p> + SIR: You are hereby appointed chief of construction and transportation + in the Department of the Rappahannock, with the rank of colonel, and + attached to the staff of Major-General McDowell. +</p> +<p> + You are authorized to do whatever you may deem expedient to open for use + in the shortest possible time all military railroads now or hereafter + required in said department; to use the same for transportation under + such rules and regulations as you may prescribe; to appoint such + assistants and employees as you may deem necessary, define their duties + and fix their compensation; to make requisitions upon any of the + military authorities, with the approval of the Commanding General, for + such temporary or permanent details of men as may be required for the + construction or protection of lines of communication; to use such + Government steamers and transports as you may deem necessary; to pass + free of charge in such steamers and transports and on other military + roads all persons whose services may be required in construction or + transportation; to purchase all such machinery, rolling stock, and + supplies as the proper use and operation of the said railroads may + require, and certify the same to the Quartermaster-General, who shall + make payment therefor. You are also authorized to form a permanent corps + of artificers, organized, officered, and equipped in such manner as you + may prescribe; to supply said corps with rations, transportation, tools, + and implements by requisitions upon the proper departments; to employ + civilians as foremen and assistants, under such rules and rates of + compensation as you may deem expedient; to make such additions to + ordinary rations when actually at work as you may deem necessary. +</p> +<p> + You are also authorized to take possession of and use all railroads, + engines, cars, buildings, machinery, and appurtenances within the + geographical limits of the Department of the Rappahannock, and all + authority heretofore given to other parties which may in any way + conflict with the instructions herein contained are and will be without + force and effect in the said Department of the Rappahannock from and + after this date. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President, Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of + the United States: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, D.C., May 30, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + All regiments of militia or of three-months' volunteers who have offered + their services under the recent call of the War Department, and who have + so far perfected their organization as to be able to report for orders + at St. Louis, at Columbus, or at Washington City by the 10th of June, + will be mustered into the service of the United States for three months + from that date, the pay of each volunteer or militiaman commencing from + the date of his enlistment. +</p> +<p> + Under the call for three-years volunteers 50,000 men will be accepted as + raised and reported by the respective State governors. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + NEW YORK, <i>June 30, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Governors of the several States</i>: +</p> +<p> + The capture of New Orleans, Norfolk, and Corinth by the national forces + has enabled the insurgents to concentrate a large force at and about + Richmond, which place we must take with the least possible delay; in + fact, there will soon be no formidable insurgent force except at + Richmond. With so large an army there, the enemy can threaten us on the + Potomac and elsewhere. Until we have reestablished the national + authority, all these places must be held, and we must keep a respectable + force in front of Washington. But this, from the diminished strength of + our Army by sickness and casualties, renders an addition to it necessary + in order to close the struggle which has been prosecuted for the last + three months with energy and success. Rather than hazard the + misapprehension of our military condition and of groundless alarm by a + call for troops by proclamation, I have deemed it best to address you in + this form. To accomplish the object stated we require without delay + 150,000 men, including those recently called for by the Secretary of + War. Thus reenforced our gallant Army will be enabled to realize the + hopes and expectations of the Government and the people. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + JUNE 28, 1862. +</p> +<p> + The PRESIDENT: +</p> +<p> + The undersigned, governors of States of the Union, impressed with the + belief that the citizens of the States which they respectively represent + are of one accord in the hearty desire that the recent successes of the + Federal arms may be followed up by measures which must insure the speedy + restoration of the Union, and believing that, in view of the present + state of the important military movements now in progress and the + reduced condition of our effective forces in the field, resulting from + the usual and unavoidable casualties in the service, the time has + arrived for prompt and vigorous measures to be adopted by the people in + support of the great interests committed to your charge, respectfully + request, if it meets with your entire approval, that you at once call + upon the several States for such number of men as may be required to + fill up all military organizations now in the field, and add to the + armies heretofore organized such additional number of men as may, in + your judgment, be necessary to garrison and hold all the numerous cities + and military positions that have been captured by our armies, and to + speedily crush the rebellion that still exists in several of the + Southern States, thus practically restoring to the civilized world our + great and good Government. All believe that the decisive moment is near + at hand, and to that end the people of the United States are desirous to + aid promptly in furnishing all reenforcements that you may deem needful + to sustain our Government. +</p> +<p style="margin-left: 25%; text-indent: -3em;"> + ISRAEL WASHBURN, Jr., Governor of Maine; H.S. BERRY, Governor of + New Hampshire; FREDERICK HOLBROOK, Governor of Vermont; WILLIAM A. + BUCKINGHAM, Governor of Connecticut; E.D. MORGAN, Governor of New + York; CHARLES S. OLDEN, Governor of New Jersey; A.G. CURTIN, Governor + of Pennsylvania; A.W. BRADFORD, Governor of Maryland, F.H. PEIRPOINT, + Governor of Virginia; AUSTIN BLAIR, Governor of Michigan; J.B. TEMPLE, + President Military Board of Kentucky; ANDREW JOHNSON, Governor of + Tennessee; H.R. GAMBLE, Governor of Missouri; O.P. MORTON, Governor + of Indiana; DAVID TODD, Governor of Ohio; ALEXANDER RAMSEY, Governor + of Minnesota; RICHARD YATES, Governor of Illinois; EDWARD SALOMON, + Governor of Wisconsin. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, July 1, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + Gentlemen: Fully concurring in the wisdom of the views expressed to me + in so patriotic a manner by you in the communication of the 28th day of + June, I have decided to call into the service an additional force of + 300,000 men. I suggest and recommend that the troops should be chiefly + of infantry. The quota of your State would be ———. I trust that they + may be enrolled without delay, so as to bring this unnecessary and + injurious civil war to a speedy and satisfactory conclusion. An order + fixing the quotas of the respective States will be issued by the War + Department to-morrow. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, July 11, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That Major-General Henry W. Halleck be assigned to command + the whole land forces of the United States as General in Chief, and that + he repair to this capital as soon as he can with safety to the positions + and operations within the department under his charge. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p> + Whereas, in the judgment of the President, the public safety does + require that the railroad line called and known as the Southwest Branch + of the Pacific Railroad in the State of Missouri be repaired, extended, + and completed from Rolla to Lebanon, in the direction to Springfield, in + the said State, the same being necessary to the successful and + economical conduct of the war and to the maintenance of the authority of + the Government in the Southwest: +</p> +<p> + Therefore, under and in virtue of the act of Congress entitled "An act + to authorize the President of the United States in certain cases to take + possession of railroad and telegraph lines, and for other purposes," + approved January 31, 1862, it is— +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That the portion of the said railroad line which reaches from + Rolla to Lebanon be repaired, extended, and completed, so as to be made + available for the military uses of the Government, as speedily as may + be. And inasmuch as, upon the part of the said line from Rolla to the + stream called Little Piney a considerable portion of the necessary work + has already been done by the railroad company, and the road to this + extent may be completed at comparatively small cost, it is ordered that + the said line from Rolla to and across Little Piney be first completed, + and as soon as possible. +</p> +<p> + The Secretary of War is charged with the execution of this order. And to + facilitate the speedy execution of the work, he is directed, at his + discretion, to take possession and control of the whole or such part of + the said railroad line, and the whole or such part of the rolling stock, + offices, shops, buildings, and all their appendages and appurtenances, + as he may judge necessary or convenient for the early completion of the + road from Rolla to Lebanon. +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, July 11, 1862. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 82. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, July 21, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + The following order has been received from the President of the United + States: +</p> +<p> + Representations have been made to the President by the ministers of + various foreign powers in amity with the United States that subjects of + such powers have during the present insurrection been obliged or + required by military authorities to take an oath of general or qualified + allegiance to this Government. It is the duty of all aliens residing in + the United States to submit to and obey the laws and respect the + authority of the Government. For any proceeding or conduct inconsistent + with this obligation and subversive of that authority they may + rightfully be subjected to military restraints when this may be + necessary. But they can not be required to take an oath of allegiance to + this Government, because it conflicts with the duty they owe to their + own sovereigns. All such obligations heretofore taken are therefore + remitted and annulled. Military commanders will abstain from imposing + similar obligations in future, and will in lieu thereof adopt such other + restraints of the character indicated as they shall find necessary, + convenient, and effectual for the public safety. It is further directed + that whenever any order shall be made affecting the personal liberty of + an alien reports of the same and of the causes thereof shall be made to + the War Department for the consideration of the Department of State. +</p> +<p> + By order of the Secretary of War: +</p> +<p class="r"> +L. THOMAS,<br> + <i>Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> + +<p> </p><p> </p> +<p class="r"> + WAR DEPARTMENT, <i>July 22, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + 1. <i>Ordered</i>, That military commanders within the States of Virginia, + South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, + Texas, and Arkansas in an orderly manner seize and use any property, + real or personal, which may be necessary or convenient for their several + commands as supplies or for other military purposes; and that while + property may be destroyed for proper military objects, none shall be + destroyed in wantonness or malice. +</p> +<p> + 2. That military and naval commanders shall employ as laborers within + and from said States so many persons of African descent as can be + advantageously used for military or naval purposes, giving them + reasonable wages for their labor. +</p> +<p> + 3. That as to both property and persons of African descent accounts + shall be kept sufficiently accurate and in detail to show quantities and + amounts and from whom both property and such persons shall have come, as + a basis upon which compensation can be made in proper cases; and the + several Departments of this Government shall attend to and perform their + appropriate parts toward the execution of these orders. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 89. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, July 25, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + I. The following order of the President of the United States + communicates information of the death of ex-President Martin Van Buren: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 25, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p class="q"> + The President with deep regret announces to the people of the United + States the decease, at Kinderhook, N.Y., on the 24th instant, of his + honored predecessor Martin Van Buren. +</p> +<p class="q"> + This event will occasion mourning in the nation for the loss of a + citizen and a public servant whose memory will be gratefully cherished. + Although it has occurred at a time when his country is afflicted with + division and civil war, the grief of his patriotic friends will + measurably be assuaged by the consciousness that while suffering with + disease and seeing his end approaching his prayers were for the + restoration of the authority of the Government of which he had been the + head and for peace and good will among his fellow-citizens. +</p> +<p class="q"> + As a mark of respect for his memory, it is ordered that the Executive + Mansion and the several Executive Departments, except those of War and + the Navy, be immediately placed in mourning and all business be + suspended during to-morrow. +</p> +<p class="q"> + It is further ordered that the War and Navy Departments cause suitable + military and naval honors to be paid on this occasion to the memory of + the illustrious dead. +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + II. On the day after the receipt of this order the troops will be + paraded at 10 o'clock a.m. and the order read to them. The national flag + will be displayed at half-staff. At dawn of day thirteen guns will be + fired, and afterwards at intervals of thirty minutes between rising and + setting sun a single gun, and at the close of the day a national salute + of thirty-four guns. The officers of the Army will wear crape on the + left arm and on their swords and the colors of the several regiments + will be put in mourning for the period of six months. +</p> +<p> + By order of the Secretary of War: +</p> +<p class="r"> +L. THOMAS,<br> + <i>Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + GENERAL ORDER. +</center> +<p class="r"> + NAVY DEPARTMENT, <i>July 25, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + The death of ex-President Martin Van Buren is announced in the following + order of the President of the United States: +</p> +<center> + [For order see preceding page.] +</center> +<p> + In pursuance of the foregoing order, it is hereby directed that thirty + minute guns, commencing at noon, be fired on the day after the receipt + of this general order at the navy-yards, naval stations, and on board + the vessels of the Navy in commission; that their flags be displayed at + half-mast for one week, and that crape be worn on the left arm by all + officers of the Navy for a period of six months. +</p> +<p class="r"> +GIDEON WELLES,<br> + <i>Secretary of the Navy</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, D.C., July 31, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + The absence of officers and privates from their duty under various + pretexts while receiving pay, at great expense and burden to the + Government, makes it necessary that efficient measures be taken to + enforce their return to duty or that their places be supplied by those + who will not take pay while rendering no service. This evil, moreover, + tends greatly to discourage the patriotic impulses of those who would + contribute to support the families of faithful soldiers. +</p> +<p> + It is therefore ordered by the President— +</p> +<p> + I. That on Monday, the 11th day of August, all leaves of absence and + furloughs, by whomsoever given, unless by the War Department, are + revoked and absolutely annulled, and all officers capable of service are + required forthwith to join their respective commands and all privates + capable of service to join their regiments, under penalty of a dismissal + from the service, or such penalty as a court-martial may award, unless + the absence be occasioned by lawful cause. +</p> +<p> + II. The only excuses allowed for the absence of officers or privates + after the 11th day of August are: +</p> +<p> + First. The order or leave of the War Department. +</p> +<p> + Second. Disability from wounds received in service. +</p> +<p> + Third. Disability from disease that renders the party unfit for military + duty. But any officer or private whose health permits him to visit + watering places or places of amusement, or to make social visits or walk + about the town, city, or neighborhood in which he may be, will be + considered fit for military duty and as evading duty by absence from his + command or ranks. +</p> +<p> + III. On Monday, the 18th day of August, at 10 o'clock a.m., each + regiment and corps shall be mustered. The absentees will be marked, + three lists of the same made out, and within forty-eight hours after the + muster one copy shall be sent to the Adjutant-General of the Army, one + to the commander of the corps, the third to be retained; and all + officers and privates fit for duty absent at that time will be regarded + as absent without cause, their pay will be stopped, and they dismissed + from the service or treated as deserters unless restored; and no officer + shall be restored to his rank unless by the judgment of a court of + inquiry, to be approved by the President, he shall establish that his + absence was with good cause. +</p> +<p> + IV. Commanders of corps, divisions, brigades, regiments, and detached + posts are strictly enjoined to enforce the muster and return aforesaid. + Any officer failing in his duty herein will be deemed guilty of gross + neglect of duty and be dismissed from the service. +</p> +<p> + V. A commissioner shall be appointed by the Secretary of War to + superintend the execution of this order in the respective States. +</p> +<p> + The United States marshals in the respective districts, the mayor and + chief of police of any town or city, the sheriff of the respective + counties in each State, all postmasters and justices of the peace, are + authorized to act as special provost-marshals to arrest any officer or + private soldier fit for duty who may be found absent from his command + without just cause and convey him to the nearest military post or depot. + The transportation, reasonable expenses of this duty, and $5 will be + paid for each officer or private so arrested and delivered. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +E.M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p><p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, D.C., August 4, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, I. That a draft of 300,000 militia be immediately called into + the service of the United States, to serve for nine months unless sooner + discharged. The Secretary of War will assign the quotas to the States + and establish regulations for the draft. +</p> +<p> + II. That if any State shall not by the 15th of August furnish its quota + of the additional 300,000 volunteers authorized by law the deficiency of + volunteers in that State will also be made up by special draft from the + militia. The Secretary of War will establish regulations for this + purpose. +</p> +<p> + III. Regulations will be prepared by the War Department and presented to + the President with the object of securing the promotion of officers of + the Army and Volunteers for meritorious and distinguished services and + of preventing the nomination or appointment in the military service of + incompetent or unworthy officers. The regulations will also provide for + ridding the service of such incompetent persons as now hold commissions + in it. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., August 8, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + By direction of the President of the United States, it is hereby ordered + that until further order no citizen liable to be drafted into the + militia shall be allowed to go to a foreign country. And all marshals, + deputy marshals, and military officers of the United States are + directed, and all police authorities, especially at the ports of the + United States on the seaboard and on the frontier, are requested, to see + that this order is faithfully carried into effect. And they are hereby + authorized and directed to arrest and detain any person or persons about + to depart from the United States in violation of this order, and report + to Major L.C. Turner, judge-advocate at Washington City, for further + instructions respecting the person or persons so arrested or detained. +</p> +<p> + II. Any person liable to draft who shall absent himself from his county + or State before such draft is made will be arrested by any + provost-marshal or other United States or State officer, wherever he may + be found within the jurisdiction of the United States, and be conveyed + to the nearest military post or depot and placed on military duty for + the term of the draft; and the expenses of his own arrest and conveyance + to such post or depot, and also the sum of $5, as a reward to the + officer who shall make such arrest, shall be deducted from his pay. +</p> +<p> + III. The writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> is hereby suspended in respect to all + persons so arrested and detained, and in respect to all persons arrested + for disloyal practices. +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, D.C., August 14, 1862</i>. +</p> +<center> + ORDER RESPECTING VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA. +</center> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, first. That after the 15th of this month bounty and advanced + pay shall not be paid to volunteers for any new regiments, but only to + volunteers for regiments now in the field and volunteers to fill up new + regiments now organizing, but not yet full. +</p> +<p> + Second. Volunteers to fill up new regiments now organizing will be + received and paid the bounty and advanced pay until the 22d day of this + month, and if not completed by that time the incomplete regiments will + be consolidated and superfluous officers mustered out. +</p> +<p> + Third. Volunteers to fill up the old regiments will be received and paid + the bounty and advanced pay until the 1st day of September. +</p> +<p> + Fourth. The draft for 300,000 militia called for by the President will + be made on Wednesday, the 3d day of September, between the hours of 9 + a.m. and 5 p.m., and continue from day to day between the same hours + until completed. +</p> +<p> + Fifth. If the old regiments should not be filled up by volunteers before + the 1st day of September, a special draft will be ordered for the + deficiency. +</p> +<p> + Sixth. The exigencies of the service require that officers now in the + field should remain with their commands, and no officer now in the field + in the regular or volunteer service will under any circumstances be + detailed to accept a new command. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 218. +</center> +<p class="r"> +HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, September 2, 1862</i>. +</p> +<hr> +<p> + By direction of the President, all the clerks and employees of the civil + Departments and all the employees on the public buildings in Washington + will be immediately organized into companies, under the direction of + Brigadier-General Wadsworth, and will be armed and supplied with + ammunition, for the defense of the capital. +</p> +<p> + By command of Major-General Halleck: +</p> +<p class="r"> +F.D. TOWNSEND,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<a name="2H_4_0018"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + EXECUTIVE ORDER ESTABLISHING A PROVISIONAL COURT IN LOUISIANA. +</center> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington City, October 20, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + The insurrection which has for some time prevailed in several of the + States of this Union, including Louisiana, having temporarily subverted + and swept away the civil institutions of that State, including the + judiciary and the judicial authorities of the Union, so that it has + become necessary to hold the State in military occupation, and it being + indispensably necessary that there shall be some judicial tribunal + existing there capable of administering justice, I have therefore + thought it proper to appoint, and I do hereby constitute, a provisional + court, which shall be a court of record, for the State of Louisiana; and + I do hereby appoint Charles A. Peabody, of New York, to be a provisional + judge to hold said court, with authority to hear, try, and determine all + causes, civil and criminal, including causes in law, equity, revenue, + and admiralty, and particularly all such powers and jurisdiction as + belong to the district and circuit courts of the United States, + conforming his proceedings so far as possible to the course of + proceedings and practice which has been customary in the courts of the + United States and Louisiana, his judgment to be final and conclusive. + And I do hereby authorize and empower the said judge to make and + establish such rules and regulations as may be necessary for the + exercise of his jurisdiction, and empower the said judge to appoint a + prosecuting attorney, marshal, and clerk of the said court, who shall + perform the functions of attorney, marshal, and clerk according to such + proceedings and practice as before mentioned and such rules and + regulations as may be made and established by said judge. These + appointments are to continue during the pleasure of the President, not + extending beyond the military occupation of the city of New Orleans or + the restoration of the civil authority in that city and in the State of + Louisiana. These officers shall be paid, out of the contingent fund of + the War Department, compensation as follows: The judge at the rate of + $3,500 per annum; the prosecuting attorney, including the fees, at the + rate of $3,000 per annum; the marshal, including the fees, at the rate + of $3,000 per annum; and the clerk, including the fees, at the rate of + $2,500 per annum; such compensations to be certified by the Secretary of + War. A copy of this order, certified by the Secretary of War and + delivered to such judge, shall be deemed and held to be a sufficient + commission. +</p> +<p class="r"> +ABRAHAM LINCOLN,<br> + <i>President of the United States</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, October 29, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + Two associate justices of the Supreme Court of the United States having + been appointed since the last adjournment of said court, and + consequently no allotment of the members of said court to the several + circuits having been made by them, according to the fifth section of the + act of Congress entitled "An act to amend the judicial system of the + United States," approved April 29, 1802, I, Abraham Lincoln, President + of the United States, in virtue of said section, do make an allotment of + the justices of said court to the circuits now existing by law, as + follows: +</p> +<p> + For the first circuit: Nathan Clifford, associate justice. +</p> +<p> + For the second circuit: Samuel Nelson, associate justice. +</p> +<p> + For the third circuit: Robert C. Grier, associate justice. +</p> +<p> + For the fourth circuit: Roger B. Taney, Chief Justice. +</p> +<p> + For the fifth circuit: James M. Wayne, associate justice. +</p> +<p> + For the sixth circuit: John Catron, associate justice. +</p> +<p> + For the seventh circuit: Noah H. Swayne, associate justice. +</p> +<p> + For the eighth circuit: David Davis, associate justice. +</p> +<p> + For the ninth circuit: Samuel F. Miller, associate justice. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, November 5, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + By direction of the President, it is ordered that Major-General + McClellan be relieved from the command of the Army of the Potomac, and + that Major-General Burnside take the command of that army; also that + Major-General Hunter take command of the corps in said army which is now + commanded by General Burnside; that Major-General Fitz John Porter be + relieved from the command of the corps he now commands in said army, and + that Major-General Hooker take command of said corps. +</p> +<p> + The General in Chief is authorized, in [his] discretion, to issue an + order substantially as the above forthwith, or so soon as he may deem + proper. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>November 7, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That Brigadier-General Ellet report to Rear-Admiral Porter + for instructions, and act under his direction until otherwise ordered by + the War Department. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, November 12, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, first. That clearances issued by the Treasury Department for + vessels or merchandise bound for the port of Norfolk for the military + necessities of the department, certified by the military commandant at + Fort Monroe, shall be allowed to enter said port. +</p> +<p> + Second. That vessels and domestic produce from Norfolk, permitted by the + military commandant at Fort Monroe for the military purposes of his + command, shall on his permit be allowed to pass from said port to their + destination in any port not blockaded by the United States. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [From the Daily National Intelligencer, November 25, 1862.] +</center> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>November 13, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered by the President of the United States</i>, That the + Attorney-General be charged with the superintendence and direction of + all proceedings to be had under the act of Congress of the 17th of July, + 1862, entitled "An act to suppress insurrection, to punish treason and + rebellion, to seize and confiscate the property of rebels, and for other + purposes," in so far as may concern the seizure, prosecution, and + condemnation of the estate, property, and effects of rebels and + traitors, as mentioned and provided for in the fifth, sixth, and seventh + sections of the said act of Congress. And the Attorney-General is + authorized and required to give to the attorneys and marshals of the + United States such instructions and directions as he may find needful + and convenient touching all such seizures, prosecutions, and + condemnations, and, moreover, to authorize all such attorneys and + marshals, whenever there may be reasonable ground to fear any forcible + resistance to them in the discharge of their respective duties in this + behalf, to call upon any military officer in command of the forces of + the United States to give to them such aid, protection, and support as + may be necessary to enable them safely and efficiently to discharge + their respective duties; and all such commanding officers are required + promptly to obey such call, and to render the necessary service as far + as may be in their power consistently with their other duties. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + EDWARD BATES,<br> + <i>Attorney-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + GENERAL ORDER RESPECTING THE OBSERVANCE OF THE SABBATH DAY IN THE ARMY + AND NAVY. +</center> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, November 15, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + The President, Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy, desires and + enjoins the orderly observance of the Sabbath by the officers and men in + the military and naval service. The importance for man and beast of the + prescribed weekly rest, the sacred rights of Christian soldiers and + sailors, a becoming deference to the best sentiment of a Christian + people, and a due regard for the divine will demand that Sunday labor in + the Army and Navy be reduced to the measure of strict necessity. +</p> +<p> + The discipline and character of the national forces should not suffer + nor the cause they defend be imperiled by the profanation of the day or + name of the Most High. "At this time of public distress," adopting the + words of Washington in 1776, "men may find enough to do in the service + of God and their country without abandoning themselves to vice and + immorality." The first general order issued by the Father of his Country + after the Declaration of Independence indicates the spirit in which our + institutions were founded and should ever be defended: +</p> +<p> + <i>The General hopes and trusts that every officer and man will endeavor + to live and act as becomes a Christian soldier defending the dearest + rights and liberties of his country</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington City, November 21, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That no arms, ammunition, or munitions of war be cleared or + allowed to be exported from the United States until further order; that + any clearances for arms, ammunition, or munitions of war issued + heretofore by the Treasury Department be vacated if the articles have + not passed without the United States, and the articles stopped; that the + Secretary of War hold possession of the arms, etc., recently seized by + his order at Rouses Point, bound for Canada. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0019"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + SECOND ANNUAL MESSAGE. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + DECEMBER 1, 1862. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + Since your last annual assembling another year of health and bountiful + harvests has passed, and while it has not pleased the Almighty to bless + us with a return of peace, we can but press on, guided by the best light + He gives us, trusting that in His own good time and wise way all will + yet be well. +</p> +<p> + The correspondence touching foreign affairs which has taken place during + the last year is herewith submitted, in virtual compliance with a + request to that effect made by the House of Representatives near the + close of the last session of Congress. +</p> +<p> + If the condition of our relations with other nations is less gratifying + than it has usually been at former periods, it is certainly more + satisfactory than a nation so unhappily distracted as we are might + reasonably have apprehended. In the month of June last there were some + grounds to expect that the maritime powers which at the beginning of our + domestic difficulties so unwisely and unnecessarily, as we think, + recognized the insurgents as a belligerent would soon recede from that + position, which has proved only less injurious to themselves than to our + own country. But the temporary reverses which afterwards befell the + national arms, and which were exaggerated by our own disloyal citizens + abroad, have hitherto delayed that act of simple justice. +</p> +<p> + The civil war, which has so radically changed for the moment the + occupations and habits of the American people, has necessarily disturbed + the social condition and affected very deeply the prosperity of the + nations with which we have carried on a commerce that has been steadily + increasing throughout a period of half a century. It has at the same + time excited political ambitions and apprehensions which have produced a + profound agitation throughout the civilized world. In this unusual + agitation we have forborne from taking part in any controversy between + foreign states and between parties or factions in such states. We have + attempted no propagandism and acknowledged no revolution. But we have + left to every nation the exclusive conduct and management of its own + affairs. Our struggle has been, of course, contemplated by foreign + nations with reference less to its own merits than to its supposed and + often exaggerated effects and consequences resulting to those nations + themselves. Nevertheless, complaint on the part of this Government, even + if it were just, would certainly be unwise. +</p> +<p> + The treaty with Great Britain for the suppression of the slave trade has + been put into operation with a good prospect of complete success. It is + an occasion of special pleasure to acknowledge that the execution of it + on the part of Her Majesty's Government has been marked with a jealous + respect for the authority of the United States and the rights of their + moral and loyal citizens. +</p> +<p> + The convention with Hanover for the abolition of the Stade dues has been + carried into full effect under the act of Congress for that purpose. +</p> +<p> + A blockade of 3,000 miles of seacoast could not be established and + vigorously enforced in a season of great commercial activity like the + present without committing occasional mistakes and inflicting + unintentional injuries upon foreign nations and their subjects. +</p> +<p> + A civil war occurring in a country where foreigners reside and carry on + trade under treaty stipulations is necessarily fruitful of complaints of + the violation of neutral rights. All such collisions tend to excite + misapprehensions, and possibly to produce mutual reclamations between + nations which have a common interest in preserving peace and friendship. + In clear cases of these kinds I have so far as possible heard and + redressed complaints which have been presented by friendly powers. There + is still, however, a large and an augmenting number of doubtful cases + upon which the Government is unable to agree with the governments whose + protection is demanded by the claimants. There are, moreover, many cases + in which the United States or their citizens suffer wrongs from the + naval or military authorities of foreign nations which the governments + of those states are not at once prepared to redress. I have proposed to + some of the foreign states thus interested mutual conventions to examine + and adjust such complaints. This proposition has been made especially to + Great Britain, to France, to Spain, and to Prussia. In each case it has + been kindly received, but has not yet been formally adopted. +</p> +<p> + I deem it my duty to recommend an appropriation in behalf of the owners + of the Norwegian bark <i>Admiral P. Tordenskiold</i>, which vessel was in + May, 1861, prevented by the commander of the blockading force off + Charleston from leaving that port with cargo, notwithstanding a similar + privilege had shortly before been granted to an English vessel. I have + directed the Secretary of State to cause the papers in the case to be + communicated to the proper committees. +</p> +<p> + Applications have been made to me by many free Americans of African + descent to favor their emigration, with a view to such colonization as + was contemplated in recent acts of Congress. Other parties, at home and + abroad—some from interested motives, others upon patriotic + considerations, and still others influenced by philanthropic + sentiments—have suggested similar measures, while, on the other hand, + several of the Spanish American Republics have protested against the + sending of such colonies to their respective territories. Under these + circumstances I have declined to move any such colony to any state + without first obtaining the consent of its government, with an agreement + on its part to receive and protect such emigrants in all the rights of + freemen; and I have at the same time offered to the several States + situated within the Tropics, or having colonies there, to negotiate with + them, subject to the advice and consent of the Senate, to favor the + voluntary emigration of persons of that class to their respective + territories, upon conditions which shall be equal, just, and humane. + Liberia and Hayti are as yet the only countries to which colonists of + African descent from here could go with certainty of being received and + adopted as citizens; and I regret to say such persons contemplating + colonization do not seem so willing to migrate to those countries as to + some others, nor so willing as I think their interest demands. I + believe, however, opinion among them in this respect is improving, and + that ere long there will be an augmented and considerable migration to + both these countries from the United States. +</p> +<p> + The new commercial treaty between the United States and the Sultan of + Turkey has been carried into execution. +</p> +<p> + A commercial and consular treaty has been negotiated, subject to the + Senate's consent, with Liberia, and a similar negotiation is now pending + with the Republic of Hayti. A considerable improvement of the national + commerce is expected to result from these measures. +</p> +<p> + Our relations with Great Britain, France, Spain, Portugal, Russia, + Prussia, Denmark, Sweden, Austria, the Netherlands, Italy, Rome, and the + other European States remain undisturbed. Very favorable relations also + continue to be maintained with Turkey, Morocco, China, and Japan. +</p> +<p> + During the last year there has not only been no change of our previous + relations with the independent States of our own continent, but more + friendly sentiments than have heretofore existed are believed to be + entertained by these neighbors, whose safety and progress are so + intimately connected with our own. This statement especially applies to + Mexico, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras, Peru, and Chile. +</p> +<p> + The commission under the convention with the Republic of New Granada + closed its session without having audited and passed upon all the claims + which were submitted to it. A proposition is pending to revive the + convention, that it may be able to do more complete justice. The joint + commission between the United States and the Republic of Costa Rica has + completed its labors and submitted its report. +</p> +<p> + I have favored the project for connecting the United States with Europe + by an Atlantic telegraph, and a similar project to extend the telegraph + from San Francisco to connect by a Pacific telegraph with the line which + is being extended across the Russian Empire. +</p> +<p> + The Territories of the United States, with unimportant exceptions, have + remained undisturbed by the civil war; and they are exhibiting such + evidence of prosperity as justifies an expectation that some of them + will soon be in a condition to be organized as States and be + constitutionally admitted into the Federal Union. +</p> +<p> + The immense mineral resources of some of those Territories ought to be + developed as rapidly as possible. Every step in that direction would + have a tendency to improve the revenues of the Government and diminish + the burdens of the people. It is worthy of your serious consideration + whether some extraordinary measures to promote that end can not be + adopted. The means which suggests itself as most likely to be effective + is a scientific exploration of the mineral regions in those Territories + with a view to the publication of its results at home and in foreign + countries—results which can not fail to be auspicious. +</p> +<p> + The condition of the finances will claim your most diligent + consideration. The vast expenditures incident to the military and naval + operations required for the suppression of the rebellion have hitherto + been met with a promptitude and certainty unusual in similar + circumstances, and the public credit has been fully maintained. The + continuance of the war, however, and the increased disbursements made + necessary by the augmented forces now in the field demand your best + reflections as to the best modes of providing the necessary revenue + without injury to business and with the least possible burdens upon + labor. +</p> +<p> + The suspension of specie payments by the banks soon after the + commencement of your last session made large issues of United States + notes unavoidable. In no other way could the payment of the troops and + the satisfaction of other just demands be so economically or so well + provided for. The judicious legislation of Congress, securing the + receivability of these notes for loans and internal duties and making + them a legal tender for other debts, has made them an universal + currency, and has satisfied, partially at least, and for the time, the + long-felt want of an uniform circulating medium, saving thereby to the + people immense sums in discounts and exchanges. +</p> +<p> + A return to specie payments, however, at the earliest period compatible + with due regard to all interests concerned should ever be kept in view. + Fluctuations in the value of currency are always injurious, and to + reduce these fluctuations to the lowest possible point will always be a + leading purpose in wise legislation. Convertibility, prompt and certain + convertibility, into coin is generally acknowledged to be the best and + surest safeguard against them; and it is extremely doubtful whether a + circulation of United States notes payable in coin and sufficiently + large for the wants of the people can be permanently, usefully, and + safely maintained. +</p> +<p> + Is there, then, any other mode in which the necessary provision for the + public wants can be made and the great advantages of a safe and uniform + currency secured? +</p> +<p> + I know of none which promises so certain results and is at the same time + so unobjectionable as the organization of banking associations, under a + general act of Congress, well guarded in its provisions. To such + associations the Government might furnish circulating notes, on the + security of United States bonds deposited in the Treasury. These notes, + prepared under the supervision of proper officers, being uniform in + appearance and security and convertible always into coin, would at once + protect labor against the evils of a vicious currency and facilitate + commerce by cheap and safe exchanges. +</p> +<p> + A moderate reservation from the interest on the bonds would compensate + the United States for the preparation and distribution of the notes and + a general supervision of the system, and would lighten the burden of + that part of the public debt employed as securities. The public credit, + moreover, would be greatly improved and the negotiation of new loans + greatly facilitated by the steady market demand for Government bonds + which the adoption of the proposed system would create. +</p> +<p> + It is an additional recommendation of the measure, of considerable + weight, in my judgment, that it would reconcile as far as possible all + existing interests by the opportunity offered to existing institutions + to reorganize under the act, substituting only the secured uniform + national circulation for the local and various circulation, secured and + unsecured, now issued by them. +</p> +<p> + The receipts into the Treasury from all sources, including loans and + balance from the preceding year, for the fiscal year ending on the 30th + June, 1862, were $583,885,247.06, of which sum $49,056,397.62 were + derived from customs; $1,795,331.73 from the direct tax; from public + lands, $152,203.77; from miscellaneous sources, $931,787.64; from loans + in all forms, $529,692,460.50. The remainder, $2,257,065.80, was the + balance from last year. +</p> +<p> + The disbursements during the same period were: For Congressional, + executive, and judicial purposes, $5,939,009.29; for foreign + intercourse, $1,339,710.35; for miscellaneous expenses, including the + mints, loans, Post-Office deficiencies, collection of revenue, and other + like charges, $14,129,771.50; for expenses under the Interior + Department, $3,102,985.52; under the War Department, $394,368,407.36; + under the Navy Department, $42,674,569.69; for interest on public debt, + $13,190,324.45; and for payment of public debt, including reimbursement + of temporary loan and redemptions, $96,096,922.09; making an aggregate + of $570,841,700.25, and leaving a balance in the Treasury on the 1st day + of July, 1862, of $13,043,546.81. +</p> +<p> + It should be observed that the sum of $96,096,922.09, expended for + reimbursements and redemption of public debt, being included also in the + loans made, may be properly deducted both from receipts and + expenditures, leaving the actual receipts for the year $487,788,324.97, + and the expenditures $474,744,778.16. +</p> +<p> + Other information on the subject of the finances will be found in the + report of the Secretary of the Treasury, to whose statements and views I + invite your most candid and considerate attention. +</p> +<p> + The reports of the Secretaries of War and of the Navy are herewith + transmitted. These reports, though lengthy, are scarcely more than brief + abstracts of the very numerous and extensive transactions and operations + conducted through those Departments. Nor could I give a summary of them + here upon any principle which would admit of its being much shorter than + the reports themselves. I therefore content myself with laying the + reports before you and asking your attention to them. +</p> +<p> + It gives me pleasure to report a decided improvement in the financial + condition of the Post-Office Department as compared with several + preceding years. The receipts for the fiscal year 1861 amounted to + $8,349,296.40, which embraced the revenue from all the States of the + Union for three quarters of that year. Notwithstanding the cessation of + revenue from the so-called seceded States during the last fiscal year, + the increase of the correspondence of the loyal States has been + sufficient to produce a revenue during the same year of $8,299,820.90, + being only $50,000 less than was derived from all the States of the + Union during the previous year. The expenditures show a still more + favorable result. The amount expended in 1861 was $13,606,759.11. For + the last year the amount has been reduced to $11,125,364.13, showing a + decrease of about $2,481,000 in the expenditures as compared with the + preceding year, and about $3,750,000 as compared with the fiscal year + 1860. The deficiency in the Department for the previous year was + $4,551,966.98. For the last fiscal year it was reduced to $2,112,814.57. + These favorable results are in part owing to the cessation of mail + service in the insurrectionary States and in part to a careful review of + all expenditures in that Department in the interest of economy. The + efficiency of the postal service, it is believed, has also been much + improved. The Postmaster-General has also opened a correspondence + through the Department of State with foreign governments proposing a + convention of postal representatives for the purpose of simplifying the + rates of foreign postage and to expedite the foreign mails. This + proposition, equally important to our adopted citizens and to the + commercial interests of this country, has been favorably entertained and + agreed to by all the governments from whom replies have been received. +</p> +<p> + I ask the attention of Congress to the suggestions of the + Postmaster-General in his report respecting the further legislation + required, in his opinion, for the benefit of the postal service. +</p> +<p> + The Secretary of the Interior reports as follows in regard to the public + lands: +</p> +<p class="q"> + The public lands have ceased to be a source of revenue. From the 1st + July, 1861, to the 30th September, 1862, the entire cash receipts from + the sale of lands were $137,476.26—a sum much less than the expenses of + our land system during the same period. The homestead law, which will + take effect on the 1st of January next, offers such inducements to + settlers that sales for cash can not be expected to an extent sufficient + to meet the expenses of the General Land Office and the cost of + surveying and bringing the land into market. +</p> +<p> + The discrepancy between the sum here stated as arising from the sales of + the public lands and the sum derived from the same source as reported + from the Treasury Department arises, as I understand, from the fact that + the periods of time, though apparently, were not really coincident at + the beginning point, the Treasury report including a considerable sum + now which had previously been reported from the Interior, sufficiently + large to greatly overreach the sum derived from the three months now + reported upon by the Interior and not by the Treasury. +</p> +<p> + The Indian tribes upon our frontiers have during the past year + manifested a spirit of insubordination, and at several points have + engaged in open hostilities against the white settlements in their + vicinity. The tribes occupying the Indian country south of Kansas + renounced their allegiance to the United States and entered into + treaties with the insurgents. Those who remained loyal to the United + States were driven from the country. The chief of the Cherokees has + visited this city for the purpose of restoring the former relations of + the tribe with the United States. He alleges that they were constrained + by superior force to enter into treaties with the insurgents, and that + the United States neglected to furnish the protection which their treaty + stipulations required. +</p> +<p> + In the month of August last the Sioux Indians in Minnesota attacked the + settlements in their vicinity with extreme ferocity, killing + indiscriminately men, women, and children. This attack was wholly + unexpected, and therefore no means of defense had been provided. It is + estimated that not less than 800 persons were killed by the Indians, and + a large amount of property was destroyed. How this outbreak was induced + is not definitely known, and suspicions, which may be unjust, need not + to be stated. Information was received by the Indian Bureau from + different sources about the time hostilities were commenced that a + simultaneous attack was to be made upon the white settlements by all the + tribes between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains. The State + of Minnesota has suffered great injury from this Indian war. A large + portion of her territory has been depopulated, and a severe loss has + been sustained by the destruction of property. The people of that State + manifest much anxiety for the removal of the tribes beyond the limits of + the State as a guaranty against future hostilities. The Commissioner of + Indian Affairs wall furnish full details. I submit for your especial + consideration whether our Indian system shall not be remodeled. Many + wise and good men have impressed me with the belief that this can be + profitably done. +</p> +<p> + I submit a statement of the proceedings of commissioners, which shows + the progress that has been made in the enterprise of constructing the + Pacific Railroad. And this suggests the earliest completion of this + road, and also the favorable action of Congress upon the projects now + pending before them for enlarging the capacities of the great canals in + New York and Illinois, as being of vital and rapidly increasing + importance to the whole nation, and especially to the vast interior + region hereinafter to be noticed at some greater length. I purpose + having prepared and laid before you at an early day some interesting and + valuable statistical information upon this subject. The military and + commercial importance of enlarging the Illinois and Michigan Canal and + improving the Illinois River is presented in the report of Colonel + Webster to the Secretary of War, and now transmitted to Congress. I + respectfully ask attention to it. +</p> +<p> + To carry out the provisions of the act of Congress of the 15th of May + last, I have caused the Department of Agriculture of the United States + to be organized. +</p> +<p> + The Commissioner informs me that within the period of a few months this + Department has established an extensive system of correspondence and + exchanges, both at home and abroad, which promises to effect highly + beneficial results in the development of a correct knowledge of recent + improvements in agriculture, in the introduction of new products, and in + the collection of the agricultural statistics of the different States. +</p> +<p> + Also, that it will soon be prepared to distribute largely seeds, + cereals, plants, and cuttings, and has already published and liberally + diffused much valuable information in anticipation of a more elaborate + report, which will in due time be furnished, embracing some valuable + tests in chemical science now in progress in the laboratory. +</p> +<p> + The creation of this Department was for the more immediate benefit of a + large class of our most valuable citizens, and I trust that the liberal + basis upon which it has been organized will not only meet your + approbation, but that it will realize at no distant day all the fondest + anticipations of its most sanguine friends and become the fruitful + source of advantage to all our people. +</p> +<p> + On the 22d day of September last a proclamation was issued by the + Executive, a copy of which is herewith submitted. +</p> +<p> + In accordance with the purpose expressed in the second paragraph of that + paper, I now respectfully recall your attention to what may be called + "compensated emancipation." +</p> +<p> + A nation may be said to consist of its territory, its people, and its + laws. The territory is the only part which is of certain durability. + "One generation passeth away and another generation cometh, but the + earth abideth forever." It is of the first importance to duly consider + and estimate this ever-enduring part. That portion of the earth's + surface which is owned and inhabited by the people of the United States + is well adapted to be the home of one national family, and it is not + well adapted for two or more. Its vast extent and its variety of climate + and productions are of advantage in this age for one people, whatever + they might have been in former ages. Steam, telegraphs, and intelligence + have brought these to be an advantageous combination for one united + people. +</p> +<p> + In the inaugural address I briefly pointed out the total inadequacy of + disunion as a remedy for the differences between the people of the two + sections. I did so in language which I can not improve, and which, + therefore, I beg to repeat: +</p> +<p class="q"> + One section of our country believes slavery is <i>right</i> and ought to be + extended, while the other believes it is <i>wrong</i> and ought not to be + extended. This is the only substantial dispute. The fugitive-slave + clause of the Constitution and the law for the suppression of the + foreign slave trade are each as well enforced, perhaps, as any law can + ever be in a community where the moral sense of the people imperfectly + supports the law itself. The great body of the people abide by the dry + legal obligation in both cases, and a few break over in each. This, I + think, can not be perfectly cured, and it would be worse in both cases + <i>after</i> the separation of the sections than before. The foreign slave + trade, now imperfectly suppressed, would be ultimately revived without + restriction in one section, while fugitive slaves, now only partially + surrendered, would not be surrendered at all by the other. +</p><p class="q"> + Physically speaking, we can not separate. We can not remove our + respective sections from each other nor build an impassable wall between + them. A husband and wife may be divorced and go out of the presence and + beyond the reach of each other, but the different parts of our country + can not do this. They can not but remain face to face, and intercourse, + either amicable or hostile, must continue between them. Is it possible, + then, to make that intercourse more advantageous or more satisfactory + <i>after</i> separation than <i>before</i>? Can aliens make treaties easier than + friends can make laws? Can treaties be more faithfully enforced between + aliens than laws can among friends? Suppose you go to war, you can not + fight always; and when, after much loss on both sides and no gain on + either, you cease fighting, the identical old questions, as to terms of + intercourse, are again upon you. +</p> +<p> + There is no line, straight or crooked, suitable for a national boundary + upon which to divide. Trace through, from east to west, upon the line + between the free and slave country, and we shall find a little more than + one-third of its length are rivers, easy to be crossed, and populated, + or soon to be populated, thickly upon both sides; while nearly all its + remaining length are merely surveyors' lines, over which people may walk + back and forth without any consciousness of their presence. No part of + this line can be made any more difficult to pass by writing it down on + paper or parchment as a national boundary. The fact of separation, if it + comes, gives up on the part of the seceding section the fugitive-slave + clause, along with all other constitutional obligations upon the section + seceded from, while I should expect no treaty stipulation would ever be + made to take its place. +</p> +<p> + But there is another difficulty. The great interior region bounded east + by the Alleghanies, north by the British dominions, west by the Rocky + Mountains, and south by the line along which the culture of corn and + cotton meets, and which includes part of Virginia, part of Tennessee, + all of Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, + Kansas, Iowa, Minnesota, and the Territories of Dakota, Nebraska, and + part of Colorado, already has above 10,000,000 people, and will have + 50,000,000 within fifty years if not prevented by any political folly or + mistake. It contains more than one-third of the country owned by the + United States—certainly more than 1,000,000 square miles. Once half as + populous as Massachusetts already is, it would have more than 75,000,000 + people. A glance at the map shows that, territorially speaking, it is + the great body of the Republic. The other parts are but marginal borders + to it, the magnificent region sloping west from the Rocky Mountains to + the Pacific being the deepest and also the richest in undeveloped + resources. In the production of provisions, grains, grasses, and all + which proceed from them this great interior region is naturally one of + the most important in the world. Ascertain from the statistics the small + proportion of the region which has as yet been brought into cultivation, + and also the large and rapidly increasing amount of its products, and we + shall be overwhelmed with the magnitude of the prospect presented. And + yet this region has no seacoast—touches no ocean anywhere. As part of + one nation, its people now find, and may forever find, their way to + Europe by New York, to South America and Africa by New Orleans, and to + Asia by San Francisco; but separate our common country into two nations, + as designed by the present rebellion, and every man of this great + interior region is thereby cut off from some one or more of these + outlets, not perhaps by a physical barrier, but by embarrassing and + onerous trade regulations. +</p> +<p> + And this is true, <i>wherever</i> a dividing or boundary line may be fixed. + Place it between the now free and slave country, or place it south of + Kentucky or north of Ohio, and still the truth remains that none south + of it can trade to any port or place north of it, and none north of it + can trade to any port or place south of it, except upon terms dictated + by a government foreign to them. These outlets, east, west, and south, + are indispensable to the well-being of the people inhabiting and to + inhabit this vast interior region. <i>Which</i> of the three may be the best + is no proper question. All are better than either, and all of right + belong to that people and to their successors forever. True to + themselves, they will not ask <i>where</i> a line of separation shall be, but + will vow rather that there shall be no such line. Nor are the marginal + regions less interested in these communications to and through them to + the great outside world. They, too, and each of them, must have access + to this Egypt of the West without paying toll at the crossing of any + national boundary. +</p> +<p> + Our national strife springs not from our permanent part; not from the + land we inhabit; not from our national homestead. There is no possible + severing of this but would multiply and not mitigate evils among us. In + all its adaptations and aptitudes it demands union and abhors + separation. In fact, it would ere long force reunion, however much of + blood and treasure the separation might have cost. +</p> +<p> + Our strife pertains to ourselves—to the passing generations of men—and + it can without convulsion be hushed forever with the passing of one + generation. +</p> +<p> + In this view I recommend the adoption of the following resolution and + articles amendatory to the Constitution of the United States: +</p> +<p> + <i>Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United + States of America in Congress assembled (two-thirds of both Houses + concurring)</i>, That the following articles be proposed to the + legislatures (or conventions) of the several States as amendments to + the Constitution of the United States, all or any of which articles, + when ratified by three-fourths of the said legislatures (or conventions), + to be valid as part or parts of the said Constitution, viz: +</p> +<p class="q"> + ART. —. Every State wherein slavery now exists which shall abolish + the same therein at any time or times before the 1st day of January, + A.D. 1900, shall receive compensation from the United States as + follows, to wit: +</p><p class="q"> + The President of the United States shall deliver to every such State + bonds of the United States bearing interest at the rate of —— per cent + per annum to an amount equal to the aggregate sum of —— for each slave + shown to have been therein by the Eighth Census of the United States, + said bonds to be delivered to such State by installments or in one + parcel at the completion of the abolishment, accordingly as the same + shall have been gradual or at one time within such State; and interest + shall begin to run upon any such bond only from the proper time of its + delivery as aforesaid. Any State having received bonds as aforesaid and + afterwards reintroducing or tolerating slavery therein shall refund to + the United States the bonds so received, or the value thereof, and all + interest paid thereon. +</p><p class="q"> + ART. —. All slaves who shall have enjoyed actual freedom by the chances + of the war at any time before the end of the rebellion shall be forever + free; but all owners of such who shall not have been disloyal shall + be compensated for them at the same rates as is provided for States + adopting abolishment of slavery, but in such way that no slave shall + be twice accounted for. +</p><p class="q"> + ART. —. Congress may appropriate money and otherwise provide for + colonizing free colored persons with their own consent at any place + or places without the United States. +</p> +<p> + I beg indulgence to discuss these proposed articles at some length. + Without slavery the rebellion could never have existed; without slavery + it could not continue. +</p> +<p> + Among the friends of the Union there is great diversity of sentiment and + of policy in regard to slavery and the African race amongst us. Some + would perpetuate slavery; some would abolish it suddenly and without + compensation; some would abolish it gradually and with compensation; + some would remove the freed people from us, and some would retain them + with us; and there are yet other minor diversities. Because of these + diversities we waste much strength in struggles among ourselves. By + mutual concession we should harmonize and act together. This would be + compromise, but it would be compromise among the friends and not with + the enemies of the Union. These articles are intended to embody a plan + of such mutual concessions. If the plan shall be adopted, it is assumed + that emancipation will follow, at least in several of the States. +</p> +<p> + As to the first article, the main points are, first, the emancipation; + secondly, the length of time for consummating it (thirty-seven years); + and, thirdly, the compensation. +</p> +<p> + The emancipation will be unsatisfactory to the advocates of perpetual + slavery, but the length of time should greatly mitigate their + dissatisfaction. The time spares both races from the evils of sudden + derangement— in fact, from the necessity of any derangement—while most + of those whose habitual course of thought will be disturbed by the + measure will have passed away before its consummation. They will never + see it. Another class will hail the prospect of emancipation, but will + deprecate the length of time. They will feel that it gives too little to + the now living slaves. But it really gives them much. It saves them from + the vagrant destitution which must largely attend immediate emancipation + in localities where their numbers are very great, and it gives the + inspiring assurance that their posterity shall be free forever. The plan + leaves to each State choosing to act under it to abolish slavery now or + at the end of the century, or at any intermediate time, or by degrees + extending over the whole or any part of the period, and it obliges no + two States to proceed alike. It also provides for compensation, and + generally the mode of making it. This, it would seem, must further + mitigate the dissatisfaction of those who favor perpetual slavery, and + especially of those who are to receive the compensation. Doubtless some + of those who are to pay and not to receive will object. Yet the measure + is both just and economical. In a certain sense the liberation of slaves + is the destruction of property—property acquired by descent or by + purchase, the same as any other property. It is no less true for having + been often said that the people of the South are not more responsible + for the original introduction of this property than are the people of + the North; and when it is remembered how unhesitatingly we all use + cotton and sugar and share the profits of dealing in them, it may not be + quite safe to say that the South has been more responsible than the + North for its continuance. If, then, for a common object this property + is to be sacrificed, is it not just that it be done at a common charge? +</p> +<p> + And if with less money, or money more easily paid, we can preserve the + benefits of the Union by this means than we can by the war alone, is it + not also economical to do it? Let us consider it, then. Let us ascertain + the sum we have expended in the war since compensated emancipation was + proposed last March, and consider whether if that measure had been + promptly accepted by even some of the slave States the same sum would + not have done more to close the war than has been otherwise done. If so, + the measure would save money, and in that view would be a prudent and + economical measure. Certainly it is not so easy to pay <i>something</i> as it + is to pay <i>nothing</i>, but it is easier to pay a <i>large</i> sum than it is to + pay a <i>larger</i> one. And it is easier to pay any sum <i>when</i> we are able + than it is to pay it <i>before</i> we are able. The war requires large sums, + and requires them at once. The aggregate sum necessary for compensated + emancipation of course would be large. But it would require no ready + cash, nor the bonds even any faster than the emancipation progresses. + This might not, and probably would not, close before the end of the + thirty-seven years. At that time we shall probably have a hundred + millions of people to share the burden, instead of thirty-one millions + as now. And not only so, but the increase of our population may be + expected to continue for a long time after that period as rapidly as + before, because our territory will not have become full. I do not state + this inconsiderately. At the same ratio of increase which we have + maintained, on an average, from our first national census, in 1790, + until that of 1860, we should in 1900 have a population of 103,208,415. + And why may we not continue that ratio far beyond that period? Our + abundant room, our broad national homestead, is our ample resource. Were + our territory as limited as are the British Isles, very certainly our + population could not expand as stated. Instead of receiving the foreign + born as now, we should be compelled to send part of the native born + away. But such is not our condition. We have 2,963,000 square miles. + Europe has 3,800,000, with a population averaging 73-1/3 persons to the + square mile. Why may not our country at some time average as many? Is it + less fertile? Has it more waste surface by mountains, rivers, lakes, + deserts, or other causes? Is it inferior to Europe in any natural + advantage? If, then, we are at some time to be as populous as Europe, + how soon? As to when this <i>may</i> be, we can judge by the past and the + present; as to when it <i>will</i> be, if ever, depends much on whether we + maintain the Union. Several of our States are already above the average + of Europe—73-1/3 to the square mile. Massachusetts has 157; Rhode + Island, 133; Connecticut, 99; New York and New Jersey, each 80. Also two + other great States, Pennsylvania and Ohio, are not far below, the former + having 63 and the latter 59. The States already above the European + average, except New York, have increased in as rapid a ratio since + passing that point as ever before, while no one of them is equal to some + other parts of our country in natural capacity for sustaining a dense + population. +</p> +<p> + Taking the nation in the aggregate, and we find its population and ratio + of increase for the several decennial periods to be as follows: +</p> +<table summary="Population data" class="t" align="center"> +<tr><td width="25%"> + Year.</td><td align="right">Population.</td><td align="right">Ratio of increase.<br><i>Per cent.</i></td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1790</td><td align="right"> 3,929,827 </td><td align="right">.....</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1800</td><td align="right"> 5,305,937 </td><td align="right">35.02</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1810</td><td align="right"> 7,239,814 </td><td align="right">36.45</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1820</td><td align="right"> 9,638,131 </td><td align="right">33.13</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1830</td><td align="right">12,866,020 </td><td align="right">33.49</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1840</td><td align="right">17,069,453 </td><td align="right">32.67</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1850</td><td align="right">23,191,876 </td><td align="right">35.87</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1860</td><td align="right">31,443,790 </td><td align="right">35.58</td></tr> +</table> +<p> + This shows an average decennial increase of 34.60 per cent in population + through the seventy years from our first to our last census yet taken. + It is seen that the ratio of increase at no one of these seven periods + is either 2 per cent below or 2 per cent above the average, thus showing + how inflexible, and consequently how reliable, the law of increase in + our case is. Assuming that it will continue, it gives the following + results: +</p> +<table summary="Population data" class="t" align="center"> +<tr><td width="25%"> + Year. </td><td align="right">Population.</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1870 </td><td align="right">42,323,341</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1880 </td><td align="right">56,967,216</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1890 </td><td align="right">76,677,872</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1900 </td><td align="right">103,208,415</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1910 </td><td align="right">138,918,526</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1920 </td><td align="right">186,984,335</td></tr> +<tr><td> + 1930 </td><td align="right">251,680,914</td></tr> +</table> +<p> + These figures show that our country <i>may</i> be as populous as Europe now + is at some point between 1920 and 1930—say about 1925—our territory, + at 73-1/3 persons to the square mile, being of capacity to contain + 217,186,000. +</p> +<p> + And we <i>will</i> reach this, too, if we do not ourselves relinquish the + chance by the folly and evils of disunion or by long and exhausting war + springing from the only great element of national discord among us. + While it can not be foreseen exactly how much one huge example of + secession, breeding lesser ones indefinitely, would retard population, + civilization, and prosperity, no one can doubt that the extent of it + would be very great and injurious. +</p> +<p> + The proposed emancipation would shorten the war, perpetuate peace, + insure this increase of population, and proportionately the wealth of + the country. With these we should pay all the emancipation would cost, + together with our other debt, easier than we should pay our other debt + without it. If we had allowed our old national debt to run at 6 per cent + per annum, simple interest, from the end of our revolutionary struggle + until to-day, without paying anything on either principal or interest, + each man of us would owe less upon that debt now than each man owed upon + it then; and this because our increase of men through the whole period + has been greater than 6 per cent—has run faster than the interest upon + the debt. Thus time alone relieves a debtor nation, so long as its + population increases faster than unpaid interest accumulates on its + debt. +</p> +<p> + This fact would be no excuse for delaying payment of what is justly due, + but it shows the great importance of time in this connection—the great + advantage of a policy by which we shall not have to pay until we number + 100,000,000 what by a different policy we would have to pay now, when we + number but 31,000,000. In a word, it shows that a dollar will be much + harder to pay for the war than will be a dollar for emancipation on the + proposed plan. And then the latter will cost no blood, no precious life. + It will be a saving of both. +</p> +<p> + As to the second article, I think it would be impracticable to return to + bondage the class of persons therein contemplated. Some of them + doubtless, in the property sense belong to loyal owners, and hence + provision is made in this article for compensating such. +</p> +<p> + The third article relates to the future of the freed people. It does not + oblige, but merely authorizes Congress to aid in colonizing such as may + consent. This ought not to be regarded as objectionable on the one hand + or on the other, insomuch as it comes to nothing unless by the mutual + consent of the people to be deported and the American voters, through + their representatives in Congress. +</p> +<p> + I can not make it better known than it already is that I strongly favor + colonization; and yet I wish to say there is an objection urged against + free colored persons remaining in the country which is largely + imaginary, if not sometimes malicious. +</p> +<p> + It is insisted that their presence would injure and displace white labor + and white laborers. If there ever could be a proper time for mere catch + arguments, that time surely is not now. In times like the present men + should utter nothing for which they would not willingly be responsible + through time and in eternity. Is it true, then, that colored people can + displace any more white labor by being free than by remaining slaves? If + they stay in their old places, they jostle no white laborers; if they + leave their old places, they leave them open to white laborers. + Logically, there is neither more nor less of it. Emancipation, even + without deportation, would probably enhance the wages of white labor, + and very surely would not reduce them. Thus the customary amount of + labor would still have to be performed—the freed people would surely + not do more than their old proportion of it, and very probably for a + time would do less, leaving an increased part to white laborers, + bringing their labor into greater demand, and consequently enhancing the + wages of it. With deportation, even to a limited extent, enhanced wages + to white labor is mathematically certain. Labor is like any other + commodity in the market—increase the demand for it and you increase the + price of it. Reduce the supply of black labor by colonizing the black + laborer out of the country, and by precisely so much you increase the + demand for and wages of white labor. +</p> +<p> + But it is dreaded that the freed people will swarm forth and cover the + whole land. Are they not already in the land? Will liberation make them + any more numerous? Equally distributed among the whites of the whole + country; and there would be but one colored to seven whites. Could the + one in any way greatly disturb the seven? There are many communities now + having more than one free colored person to seven whites and this + without any apparent consciousness of evil from it. The District of + Columbia and the States of Maryland and Delaware are all in this + condition. The District has more than one free colored to six whites, + and yet in its frequent petitions to Congress I believe it has never + presented the presence of free colored persons as one of its grievances. + But why should emancipation South send the free people North? People of + any color seldom run unless there be something to run from. <i>Heretofore</i> + colored people to some extent have fled North from bondage, and <i>now</i>, + perhaps, from both bondage and destitution. But if gradual emancipation + and deportation be adopted, they will have neither to flee from. Their + old masters will give them wages at least until new laborers can be + procured, and the freedmen in turn will gladly give their labor for the + wages till new homes can be found for them in congenial climes and with + people of their own blood and race. This proposition can be trusted on + the mutual interests involved. And in any event, can not the North + decide for itself whether to receive them? +</p> +<p> + Again, as practice proves more than theory in any case, has there been + any irruption of colored people northward because of the abolishment of + slavery in this District last spring? +</p> +<p> + What I have said of the proportion of free colored persons to the whites + in the District is from the census of 1860, having no reference to + persons called contrabands nor to those made free by the act of Congress + abolishing slavery here. +</p> +<p> + The plan consisting of these articles is recommended, not but that a + restoration of the national authority would be accepted without its + adoption. +</p> +<p> + Nor will the war nor proceedings under the proclamation of September 22, + 1862, be stayed because of the <i>recommendation</i> of this plan. Its timely + <i>adoption</i>, I doubt not, would bring restoration, and thereby stay both. +</p> +<p> + And notwithstanding this plan, the recommendation that Congress provide + by law for compensating any State which may adopt emancipation before + this plan shall have been acted upon is hereby earnestly renewed. Such + would be only an advance part of the plan, and the same arguments apply + to both. +</p> +<p> + This plan is recommended as a means, not in exclusion of, but additional + to, all others for restoring and preserving the national authority + throughout the Union. The subject is presented exclusively in its + economical aspect. The plan would, I am confident, secure peace more + speedily and maintain it more permanently than can be done by force + alone, while all it would cost, considering amounts and manner of + payment and times of payment, would be easier paid than will be the + additional cost of the war if we rely solely upon force. It is much, + very much, that it would cost no blood at all. +</p> +<p> + The plan is proposed as permanent constitutional law. It can not become + such without the concurrence of, first, two-thirds of Congress, and + afterwards three-fourths of the States. The requisite three-fourths of + the States will necessarily include seven of the slave States. Their + concurrence, if obtained, will give assurance of their severally + adopting emancipation at no very distant day upon the new constitutional + terms. This assurance would end the struggle now and save the Union + forever. +</p> +<p> + I do not forget the gravity which should characterize a paper addressed + to the Congress of the nation by the Chief Magistrate of the nation, nor + do I forget that some of you are my seniors, nor that many of you have + more experience than I in the conduct of public affairs. Yet I trust + that in view of the great responsibility resting upon me you will + perceive no want of respect to yourselves in any undue earnestness I may + seem to display. +</p> +<p> + Is it doubted, then, that the plan I propose, if adopted, would shorten + the war, and thus lessen its expenditure of money and of blood? Is it + doubted that it would restore the national authority and national + prosperity and perpetuate both indefinitely? Is it doubted that we + here—Congress and Executive—can secure its adoption? Will not the good + people respond to a united and earnest appeal from us? Can we, can they, + by any other means so certainly or so speedily assure these vital + objects? We can succeed only by concert. It is not "Can <i>any</i> of us + <i>imagine</i> better?" but "Can we <i>all</i> do better?" Object whatsoever is + possible, still the question recurs, "Can we do better?" The dogmas of + the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is + piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our + case is new, so we must think anew and act anew. We must disenthrall + ourselves, and then we shall save our country. +</p> +<p> + Fellow-citizens, <i>we</i> can not escape history. We of this Congress and + this Administration will be remembered in spite of ourselves. No + personal significance or insignificance can spare one or another of us. + The fiery trial through which we pass will light us down in honor or + dishonor to the latest generation. We <i>say</i> we are for the Union. The + world will not forget that we say this. We know how to save the Union. + The world knows we do know how to save it. We, even <i>we here</i>, hold the + power and bear the responsibility. In <i>giving</i> freedom to the <i>slave</i> we + <i>assure</i> freedom to the <i>free</i>—honorable alike in what we give and what + we preserve. We shall nobly save or meanly lose the last best hope of + earth. Other means may succeed; this could not fail. The way is plain, + peaceful, generous, just—a way which if followed the world will forever + applaud and God must forever bless. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0020"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + SPECIAL MESSAGES. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 3, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + On the 3d of November, 1861, a collision took place off the coast of + Cuba between the United States war steamer <i>San Jacinto</i> and the French + brig <i>Jules et Marie</i>, resulting in serious damage to the latter. The + obligation of this Government to make amends therefor could not be + questioned if the injury resulted from any fault on the part of the + <i>San Jacinto</i>. +</p> +<p> + With a view to ascertain this, the subject was referred to a commission + of the United States and French naval officers at New York, with a naval + officer of Italy as an arbiter. The conclusion arrived at was that the + collision was occasioned by the failure of the <i>San Jacinto</i> seasonably + to reverse her engine. It then became necessary to ascertain the amount + of indemnification due to the injured party. The United States + consul-general at Havana was consequently instructed to confer with the + consul of France on this point, and they have determined that the sum of + $9,500 is an equitable allowance under the circumstances. +</p> +<p> + I recommend an appropriation of this sum for the benefit of the owners + of the <i>Jules et Marie</i>. +</p> +<p> + A copy of the letter of Mr. Shufeldt, the consul-general of the United + States at Havana, to the Secretary of State on the subject is herewith + transmitted. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>December 8, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend + that Commander John L. Worden, United States Navy, receive a vote of + thanks of Congress for the eminent skill and gallantry exhibited by him + in the late remarkable battle between the United States ironclad steamer + <i>Monitor</i>, under his command, and the rebel ironclad steamer <i>Merrimac</i>, + in March last. +</p> +<p> + The thanks of Congress for his services on the occasion referred to were + tendered by a resolution approved July 11, 1862, but the recommendation + is now specially made in order to comply with the requirements of the + ninth section of the act of July 16, 1862, which is in the following + words, viz: +</p> +<p> + That any line officer of the Navy or Marine Corps may be advanced one + grade if upon recommendation of the President by name he receives the + thanks of Congress for highly distinguished conduct in conflict with the + enemy or for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>December 9, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the United States of + the 13th of March last, requesting a copy of the correspondence relative + to the attempted seizure of Mr. Fauchet by the commander of the <i>Africa</i> + within the waters of the United States, I transmit a report from the + Secretary of State and the documents by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>December 10, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend + that Lieutenant-Commander George U. Morris, United States Navy, receive + a vote of thanks of Congress for the determined valor and heroism + displayed in his defense of the United States ship of war <i>Cumberland</i>, + temporarily under his command, in the naval engagement at Hampton Roads + on the 8th March, 1862, with the rebel ironclad steam frigate + <i>Merrimac</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 10, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 17th + of July last, requesting the communication of correspondence relating to + the arrest of a part of the crew of the brig <i>Sumter</i> at Tangier, + Morocco, I herewith transmit a report from the Secretary of State. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with your resolution of December 5, 1862, requesting the + President "to furnish the Senate with all information in his possession + touching the late Indian barbarities in the State of Minnesota, and also + the evidence in his possession upon which some of the principal actors + and headmen were tried and condemned to death," I have the honor to + state that on receipt of said resolution I transmitted the same to the + Secretary of the Interior, accompanied by a note a copy of which is + herewith inclosed, marked A, and in response to which I received through + that Department a letter of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, a copy + of which is herewith inclosed, marked B. +</p> +<p> + I further state that on the 8th day of November last I received a + long telegraphic dispatch from Major-General Pope, at St. Paul, Minn., + simply announcing the names of the persons sentenced to be hanged. I + immediately telegraphed to have transcripts of the records in all the + cases forwarded to me, which transcripts, however, did not reach me + until two or three days before the present meeting of Congress. Meantime + I received, through telegraphic dispatches and otherwise, appeals in + behalf of the condemned, appeals for their execution, and expressions + of opinion as to proper policy in regard to them and to the Indians + generally in that vicinity, none of which, as I understand, falls within + the scope of your inquiry. After the arrival of the transcripts of + records, but before I had sufficient opportunity to examine them, + I received a joint letter from one of the Senators and two of the + Representatives from Minnesota, which contains some statements of fact + not found in the records of the trials, and for which reason I herewith + transmit a copy, marked C. I also, for the same reason, inclose a + printed memorial of the citizens of St. Paul addressed to me and + forwarded with the letter aforesaid. +</p> +<p> + Anxious to not act with so much clemency as to encourage another + outbreak on the one hand, nor with so much severity as to be real + cruelty on the other, I caused a careful examination of the records + of trials to be made, in view of first ordering the execution of + such as had been proved guilty of violating females. Contrary to my + expectations, only two of this class were found. I then directed a + further examination, and a classification of all who were proven to have + participated in <i>massacres</i>, as distinguished from participation in + <i>battles</i>. This class numbered forty, and included the two convicted + of female violation. One of the number is strongly recommended by the + commission which tried them for commutation to ten years' imprisonment. + I have ordered the other thirty-nine to be executed on Friday, the 19th + instant. The order was dispatched from here on Monday, the 8th instant, + by a messenger to General Sibley, and a copy of which order is herewith + transmitted, marked D. +</p> +<p> + An abstract of the evidence as to the forty is herewith inclosed, + marked E. +</p> +<p> + To avoid the immense amount of copying, I lay before the Senate the + original transcripts of the records of trials as received by me. +</p> +<p> + This is as full and complete a response to the resolution as it is in my + power to make. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + DECEMBER 11, 1862. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 11, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for its consideration with a view to + ratification, a treaty between the United States and the Republic of + Liberia, signed at London by the plenipotentiaries of the parties on the + 21st of October last. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + DECEMBER 12, 1862. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I have in my possession three valuable swords, formerly the property of + General David E. Twiggs, which I now place at the disposal of Congress. + They are forwarded to me from New Orleans by Major-General Benjamin F. + Butler. If they or any of them shall be by Congress disposed of in + reward or compliment of military service, I think General Butler is + entitled to the first consideration. A copy of the General's letter to + me accompanying the swords is herewith transmitted. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>December 13, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In the list of nominations transmitted to the Senate under date of the + 1st instant Captain William M. Glendy, United States Navy, was included + therein for promotion to the grade of commodore. +</p> +<p> + Since submitting this nomination it appears that this officer was + ineligible for the advancement to which he had been nominated in + consequence of his age, being 62 on the 23d of May, 1862, and under the + law of 21st December, 1861, should, had this fact been known to the Navy + Department, have been transferred to the retired list on the day when he + completed sixty-two years. +</p> +<p> + The nomination of Captain Glendy is accordingly withdrawn. +</p> +<p> + It is due to this officer to state that at the period of the passage of + the law of December, 1861, he was and still is absent on duty on a + foreign station, and the certificate of his age required by the Navy + Department was only received a few days since. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 18, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit a copy of a dispatch to the Secretary of State from Mr. + Adams, United States minister at London, and of the correspondence to + which it refers between that gentleman and Mr. Panizzi, the principal + librarian of the British Museum, relative to certain valuable + publications presented to the Library of Congress. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 22, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 15th instant, + requesting a copy of the report of the Hon. Reverdy Johnson,<a href="#note-6"><small>6</small></a> I + transmit a communication from the Secretary of State and the documents + by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 24, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit, for the consideration of Congress, a report from the + Secretary of State on the subject of consular pupils. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 2, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I submit to Congress the expediency of extending to other Departments of + the Government the authority conferred on the President by the eighth + section of the act of the 8th of May, 1792, to appoint a person to + temporarily discharge the duties of Secretary of State, Secretary of the + Treasury, and Secretary of War in case of the death, absence from the + seat of Government, or sickness of either of those officers. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 3, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for consideration with a view to ratification, + a convention for the mutual adjustment of claims between the United + States and Ecuador, signed by the respective plenipotentiaries of the + two Governments in Guayaquil on the 25th November ultimo. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 5, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the House of Representatives of the + 22d ultimo, in relation to the alleged interference of our minister to + Mexico in favor of the French, I transmit a report from the Secretary of + State and the papers with which it is accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 6, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit for the consideration of Congress, and with a view to the + adoption of such measures in relation to the subject of it as may be + deemed expedient, a copy of a note of the 8th instant addressed to the + Secretary of State by the minister resident of the Hanseatic Republics + accredited to this Government, concerning an international agricultural + exhibition to be held next summer in the city of Hamburg. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 14, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + The Secretary of State has submitted to me a resolution of the House of + Representatives of the 5th instant, which has been delivered to him, and + which is in the following words: +</p> +<p class="q"> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the Secretary of State be requested to communicate + to this House, if not in his judgment incompatible with the public + interest, why our minister in New Granada has not presented his + credentials to the actual Government of that country; also the reasons + for which Señor Murillo is not recognized by the United States as the + diplomatic representative of the Mosquera Government of that country; + also what negotiations have been had, if any, with General Herran, as + the representative of Ospina's Government in New Granada, since it + went into existence. +</p> +<p> + On the 12th day of December, 1846, a treaty of amity, peace, and concord + was concluded between the United States of America and the Republic of + New Granada, which is still in force. On the 7th day of December, 1847, + General Pedro Alcántara Herran, who had been duly accredited, was + received here as the envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary of + that Republic. On the 30th day of August, 1849, Señor Don Rafael Rivas + was received by this Government as chargé d'affaires of the same + Republic. On the 5th day of December, 1851, a consular convention was + concluded between that Republic and the United States, which treaty was + signed on behalf of the Republic of Granada by the same Señor Rivas. + This treaty is still in force. On the 27th of April, 1852, Señor Don + Victoriano de Diego Paredes was received as chargé d'affaires of the + Republic of New Granada. On the 20th of June, 1855, General Pedro + Alcántara Herran was again received as envoy extraordinary and minister + plenipotentiary, duly accredited by the Republic of New Granada, and he + has ever since remained, under the same credentials, as the + representative of that Republic near the Government of the United + States. On the 10th of September, 1857, a claims convention was + concluded between the United States and the Republic of Granada. This + convention is still in force, and has in part been executed. In May, + 1858, the constitution of the Republic was remodeled, and the nation + assumed the political title of "The Granadian Confederacy." This fact + was formally announced to this Government, but without any change in + their representative here. Previously to the 4th day of March, 1861, a + revolutionary war against the Republic of New Granada, which had thus + been recognized and treated with by the United States, broke out in New + Granada, assuming to set up a new government under the name of "The + United States of Colombia." This war has had various vicissitudes, + sometimes favorable, sometimes adverse, to the revolutionary movements. + The revolutionary organization has hitherto been simply a military + provisionary power, and no definitive constitution of government has yet + been established in New Granada in place of that organized by the + constitution of 1858. The minister of the United States to the Granadian + Confederacy, who was appointed on the 29th day of May, 1861, was + directed, in view of the occupation of the capital by the revolutionary + party and of the uncertainty of the civil war, not to present his + credentials to either the Government of the Granadian Confederacy or to + the provisional military Government, but to conduct his affairs + informally, as is customary in such cases, and to report the progress of + events and await the instructions of this Government. The advices which + have been received from him have not hitherto been sufficiently + conclusive to determine me to recognize the revolutionary Government. + General Herran being here, with full authority from the Government of + New Granada, which had been so long recognized by the United States, I + have not received any representative from the revolutionary Government, + which has not yet been recognized, because such a proceeding would in + itself be an act of recognition. +</p> +<p> + Official communications have been had on various incidental and + occasional questions with General Herran as the minister plenipotentiary + and envoy extraordinary of the Granadian Confederacy, but in no other + character. No definitive measure or proceeding has resulted from these + communications, and a communication of them at present would not, in my + judgment, be compatible with the public interest. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + JANUARY 17, 1863. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I have signed the joint resolution to provide for the immediate payment + of the Army and Navy of the United States, passed by the House of + Representatives on the 14th and by the Senate on the 15th instant. +</p> +<p> + The joint resolution is a simple authority, amounting, however, under + existing circumstances, to a direction, to the Secretary of the Treasury + to make an additional issue of $100,000,000 in United States notes, if + so much money is needed, for the payment of the Army and Navy. +</p> +<p> + My approval is given in order that every possible facility may be + afforded for the prompt discharge of all arrears of pay due to our + soldiers and our sailors. +</p> +<p> + While giving this approval, however, I think it my duty to express my + sincere regret that it has been found necessary to authorize so large an + additional issue of United States notes, when this circulation and that + of the suspended banks together have become already so redundant as to + increase prices beyond real values, thereby augmenting the cost of + living to the injury of labor, and the cost of supplies to the injury of + the whole country. +</p> +<p> + It seems very plain that continued issues of United States notes without + any check to the issues of suspended banks and without adequate + provision for the raising of money by loans and for funding the issues + so as to keep them within due limits must soon produce disastrous + consequences; and this matter appears to me so important that I feel + bound to avail myself of this occasion to ask the special attention of + Congress to it. +</p> +<p> + That Congress has power to regulate the currency of the country can + hardly admit of doubt, and that a judicious measure to prevent the + deterioration of this currency, by a seasonable taxation of bank + circulation or otherwise, is needed seems equally clear. Independently + of this general consideration, it would be unjust to the people at large + to exempt banks enjoying the special privilege of circulation from their + just proportion of the public burdens. +</p> +<p> + In order to raise money by way of loans most easily and cheaply, it is + clearly necessary to give every possible support to the public credit. + To that end a uniform currency, in which taxes, subscriptions to loans, + and all other ordinary public dues, as well as all private dues, may be + paid, is almost, if not quite, indispensable. Such a currency can be + furnished by banking associations, organized under a general act of + Congress, as suggested in my message at the beginning of the present + session. The securing of this circulation by the pledge of United States + bonds, as therein suggested, would still further facilitate loans by + increasing the present and causing a future demand for such bonds. +</p> +<p> + In view of the actual financial embarrassments of the Government and of + the greater embarrassments sure to come if the necessary means of relief + be not afforded, I feel that I should not perform my duty by a simple + announcement of my approval of the joint resolution, which proposes + relief only by increasing circulation, without expressing my earnest + desire that measures such in substance as those I have just referred to + may receive the early sanction of Congress. +</p> +<p> + By such measures, in my opinion, will payment be most certainly secured, + not only to the Army and Navy, but to all honest creditors of the + Government, and satisfactory provision made for future demands on the + Treasury. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 20, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of State, in answer to + the resolution of the Senate relative to the correspondence between this + Government and the Mexican minister in relation to the exportation of + articles contraband of war for the use of the French army in Mexico. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, January 21, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I submit herewith, for your consideration, the joint resolutions of the + corporate authorities of the city of Washington adopted September 27, + 1862, and a memorial of the same under date of October 28, 1862, both + relating to and urging the construction of certain railroads + concentrating upon the city of Washington. +</p> +<p> + In presenting this memorial and the joint resolutions to you I am not + prepared to say more than that the subject is one of great practical + importance and that I hope it will receive the attention of Congress. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 23, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit, for the consideration of Congress, a report from the + Secretary of State, transmitting the regulations, decrees, and orders + for the government of the United States consular courts in Turkey. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 26, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 13th instant, + requesting a copy of certain correspondence respecting the capture of + British vessels sailing from one British port to another having on board + contraband of war intended for the use of the insurgents, I have the + honor to transmit a report from the Secretary of State and the documents + by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON CITY, <i>January 28, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend + that Commander David D. Porter, United States Navy, acting rear-admiral, + commanding the Mississippi Squadron, receive a vote of thanks of + Congress for the bravery and skill displayed in the attack on the post + of Arkansas, which surrendered to the combined military and naval forces + on the 10th instant. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 4, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the House of Representatives of the + 5th December last, requesting information upon the present condition of + Mexico, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State and the papers + by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>February 4, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In pursuance of the joint resolution of Congress approved 3d February, + 1863, tendering its thanks to Commander John L. Worden, United States + Navy, I nominate that officer to be a captain in the Navy on the active + list from the 3d February, 1863. +</p> +<p> + It may be proper to state that the number of captains authorized by the + second section of the act of 16th July, 1862, is now full, but presuming + that the meaning of the ninth section of the same act is that the + officer receiving the vote of thanks shall immediately be advanced one + grade I have made the nomination. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 5, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I submit to the Senate, for consideration with a view to ratification, a + "convention between the United States of America and the Republic of + Peru for the settlement of the pending claims of the citizens of either + country against the other," signed at Lima on the 12th January ultimo, + with the following amendment: +</p> +<p> + Article 1, strike out the words "the claims of the American citizens Dr. + Charles Easton, Edmund Sartori, and the owners of the whale ship + <i>William Lee</i> against the Government of Peru, and the Peruvian citizen + Stephen Montano against the Government of the United States," and + insert: <i>all claims of citizens of the United States against the + Government of Peru and of citizens of Peru against the Government of the + United States which have not been embraced in conventional or diplomatic + agreement between the two Governments or their plenipotentiaries, and + statements of which soliciting the interposition of either Government + may previously to the exchange of the ratifications of this convention + have been filed in the Department of State at Washington or the + department for foreign affairs at Lima</i>, etc. +</p> +<p> + This amendment is considered desirable, as there are believed to be + other claims proper for the consideration of the commission which are + not among those specified in the original article, and because it is at + least questionable whether either Government would be justified in + incurring the expense of a commission for the sole purpose of disposing + of the claims mentioned in that article. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 5, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I submit to the Senate, for consideration with a view to ratification, + a "convention between the United States of America and the Republic of + Peru, providing for the reference to the King of Belgium of the claims + arising out of the capture and confiscation of the ships <i>Lizzie + Thompson</i> and <i>Georgiana</i>," signed at Lima on the 20th December, 1862. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 6, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the United States of + yesterday, requesting information in regard to the death of General + Ward, a citizen of the United States in the military service of the + Chinese Government, I transmit a copy of a dispatch of the 27th of + October last, its accompaniment, from the minister of the United States + in China. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 6, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report<a href="#note-7"><small>7</small></a> from the Secretary of State, with + accompanying documents, in answer to the resolution of the Senate of the + 30th ultimo. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 10, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of yesterday, requesting + information touching the visit of Mr. Mercier to Richmond in April last, + I transmit a report from the Secretary of State, to whom the resolution + was referred. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>February 12, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + On the 4th of September, 1862, Commander George Henry Preble, United + States Navy, then senior officer in command of the naval force off the + harbor of Mobile, was guilty of inexcusable neglect in permitting the + armed steamer <i>Oreto</i> in open daylight to run the blockade. For his + omission to perform his whole duty on that occasion and the injury + thereby inflicted on the service and the country, his name was stricken + from the list of naval officers and he was dismissed the service. +</p> +<p> + Since his dismissal earnest application has been made for his + restoration to his former position by Senators and naval officers, on + the ground that his fault was an error of judgment, and that the example + in his case has already had its effect in preventing a repetition of + similar neglect. +</p> +<p> + I therefore, on this application and representation, and in + consideration of his previous fair record, do hereby nominate George + Henry Preble to be a commander in the Navy from the 16th July, 1862, to + take rank on the active list next after Commander Edward Donaldson, and + to fill a vacancy occasioned by the death of Commander J.M. Wainwright. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>February 12, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + On the 24th August, 1861, Commander Roger Perry, United States Navy, + was dismissed from the service under a misapprehension in regard to his + loyalty to the Government, from the circumstance that several oaths + were transmitted to him and the Navy Department failed to receive any + recognition of them. After his dismissal, and upon his assurance that + the oath failed to reach him and his readiness to execute it, he was + recommissioned to his original position on the 4th September following. + On the same day, 4th September, he was ordered to command the sloop of + war <i>Vandalia</i>; on the 22d this order was revoked and he was ordered to + duty in the Mississippi Squadron, and on the 23d January, 1862, was + detached sick, and has since remained unemployed. The advisory board + under the act of 16th July, 1862, did not recommend him for further + promotion. +</p> +<p> + This last commission, having been issued during the recess of the + Senate, expired at the end of the succeeding session, 17th July, 1862, + from which date, not having been nominated to the Senate, he ceased to + be a commander in the Navy. +</p> +<p> + To correct the omission to nominate this officer to the Senate at its + last session, I now nominate Commander Roger Perry to be a commander in + the Navy from the 14th September, 1855, to take his relative position on + the list of commanders not recommended for further promotion. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 12, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 10th instant, + requesting information on the subjects of mediation, arbitration, + or other measures looking to the termination of the existing civil + war, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State and the documents + by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 13, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, in answer to their resolution of the 12th + instant, the accompanying report<a href="#note-8"><small>8</small></a> from the Secretary of State. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 13, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> +Hon. GALUSHA A. GROW,<br> + <i>Speaker of the House of Representatives</i>. +</p> +<p> + SIR: I herewith communicate to the House of Representatives, in answer + to their resolution of the 18th of December last, a report from the + Secretary of the Interior, containing all the information in the + possession of the Department respecting the causes of the recent + outbreaks of the Indian tribes in the Northwest which has not + heretofore been transmitted to Congress. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE OFFICE, <i>February 17, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith, for the constitutional action of the Senate + thereon, a treaty made and concluded on the 3d day of February, 1863, + between W.W. Ross, commissioner on the part of the United States, and + the chiefs and headmen of the Pottawatomie Nation of Indians of Kansas, + which, it appears from the accompanying letter from the Secretary of the + Interior of the 17th instant, is intended to be amendatory of the treaty + concluded with said Indians on the 15th November, 1862. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 18, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for consideration with a view to its + ratification, an additional article to the treaty between the United + States and Great Britain of the 7th of April, 1862, for the suppression + of the African slave trade, which was concluded and signed at Washington + on the 17th instant by the Secretary of State and Her Britannic + Majesty's minister accredited to this Government. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>February 19, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + Congress on my recommendation passed a resolution, approved 7th + February, 1863, tendering its thanks to Commodore Charles Henry Davis + for "distinguished service in conflict with the enemy at Fort Pillow, at + Memphis, and for successful operations at other points in the waters of + the Mississippi River." +</p> +<p> + I therefore, in conformity with the seventh section of the act approved + 16th July, 1862, nominate Commodore Charles Henry Davis to be a + rear-admiral in the Navy on the active list from the 7th February, 1863. +</p> +<p> + Captain John A. Dahlgren having in said resolution of the 7th February + in like manner received the thanks of Congress "for distinguished + service in the line of his profession, improvements in ordnance, and + zealous and efficient labors in the ordnance branch of the service," I + therefore, in conformity with the seventh section of the act of 16th + July, 1862, nominate Captain John A. Dahlgren to be a rear-admiral in + the Navy on the active list from the 7th February, 1863. +</p> +<p> + The ninth section of the act of July, 1862, authorizes "any line officer + of the Navy or Marine Corps to be advanced one grade if upon + recommendation of the President by name he receives the thanks of + Congress for highly distinguished conduct in conflict with the enemy or + for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession," and Captain + Stephen C. Rowan and Commander David D. Porter having each on my + recommendation received the thanks of Congress for distinguished + service, by resolution or the 7th February, 1863, I do therefore + nominate Captain Stephen C. Rowan to be a commodore in the Navy on the + active list from the 7th February, 1863. Commander David D. Porter to be + a captain in the Navy on the active list from the 7th February, 1863. +</p> +<p> + If this nomination should be confirmed, there will be vacancies in the + several grades to which these officers are nominated for promotion. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, February 25, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES SENATE. +</p> +<p> + SIR: In answer to the Senate resolution of the 21st instant, I have + the honor to inclose herewith a letter of the 24th instant from the + Secretary of War, by which it appears that there are 438 assistant + quartermasters, 387 commissaries of subsistence, and 343 additional + paymasters now in the volunteer service, including those before the + Senate for confirmation. +</p> +<p> + I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>February 25, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I nominate Passed Midshipmen Samuel Pearce and Nathaniel T. West, now on + the retired list, to be ensigns in the Navy on the retired list. +</p> +<p> + These nominations are made in conformity with the fourth section of the + act to amend an act entitled "An act to promote the efficiency of the + Navy," approved 16th January, 1857, and are induced by the following + considerations: +</p> +<p> + The pay of a passed midshipman on the retired list as fixed by the "Act + for the better organization of the military establishment," approved 3d + August, 1861, amounted, including rations, to $788 per annum. By the + "Act to establish and equalize the grade of line officers of the United + States Navy," approved 16th July, 1862, the grade or rank of passed + midshipman, which was the next below that of master, was discontinued + and that of ensign was established, being now the next grade below that + of master and the only grade in the line list between those of master + and midshipman. The same act fixes the pay of officers on the retired + list, omitting the grade of passed midshipman, and prohibits the + allowance of rations to retired officers. The effect of this was to + reduce the pay of a passed midshipman on the retired list from $788 to + $350 per annum, or less than half of previous rate. +</p> +<p> + This was no doubt an unintended result of the law, operating exclusively + on the two passed midshipmen then on the retired list, and their + promotion or transfer to the equivalent grade of ensign would not + completely indemnify them, the pay of an ensign on the retired list + being only $500 per annum. It is the only relief, however, which is + deemed within the intention of the existing laws, and it is the more + willingly recommended in this case, as there is nothing in the character + of the officers to be relieved which would make it objectionable. These + are the only cases of the kind. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 28, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 26th instant, + requesting a copy of any correspondence which may have taken place + between me and workingmen in England, I transmit the papers mentioned in + the subjoined list. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 28, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit, for the consideration of Congress, a dispatch to the + Secretary of State from the United States consul at Liverpool, and the + address to which it refers, of the distressed operatives of Blackburn, + in England, to the New York relief committee and to the inhabitants of + the United States generally. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 2, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of a preamble and joint resolution of the + legislative assembly of the Territory of New Mexico, accepting the + benefits of the act of Congress approved the 2d of July last, entitled + "An act donating public lands to the several States and Territories + which may provide colleges for the benefit of agriculture and the + mechanic arts." +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0021"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + PROCLAMATION. +</h2> +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas on the 22d day of September, A.D. 1862, a proclamation was + issued by the President of the United States, containing, among other + things, the following, to wit: +</p> +<p class="q"> + That on the 1st day of January, A.D. 1863, all persons held as slaves + within any State or designated part of a State the people whereof + shall then be in rebellion against the United States shall be then, + thenceforward, and forever free; and the executive government of the + United States, including the military and naval authority thereof, + will recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons and will do + no act or acts to repress such persons, or any of them, in any efforts + they may make for their actual freedom. +</p><p class="q"> + That the Executive will on the 1st day of January aforesaid, by + proclamation, designate the States and parts of States, if any, in + which the people thereof, respectively, shall then be in rebellion + against the United States; and the fact that any State or the people + thereof shall on that day be in good faith represented in the Congress + of the United States by members chosen thereto at elections wherein a + majority of the qualified voters of such States shall have participated + shall, in the absence of strong countervailing testimony, be deemed + conclusive evidence that such State and the people thereof are not then + in rebellion against the United States. +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, by + virtue of the power in me vested as Commander in Chief of the Army and + Navy of the United States in time of actual armed rebellion against the + authority and Government of the United States, and as a fit and + necessary war measure for suppressing said rebellion, do, on this 1st + day of January, A.D. 1863, and in accordance with my purpose so to do, + publicly proclaimed for the full period of one hundred days from the day + first above mentioned, order and designate as the States and parts of + States wherein the people thereof, respectively, are this day in + rebellion against the United States the following, to wit: +</p> +<p> + Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana (except the parishes of St. Bernard, + Plaquemines, Jefferson, St. John, St. Charles, St. James, Ascension, + Assumption, Terrebonne, Lafourche, St. Mary, St. Martin, and Orleans, + including the city of New Orleans), Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, + Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia (except the + forty-eight counties designated as West Virginia, and also the counties + of Berkeley, Accomac, Northampton, Elizabeth City, York, Princess Anne, + and Norfolk, including the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth), and which + excepted parts are for the present left precisely as if this + proclamation were not issued. +</p> +<p> + And by virtue of the power and for the purpose aforesaid, I do order and + declare that all persons held as slaves within said designated States + and parts of States are and henceforward shall be free, and that the + executive government of the United States, including the military and + naval authorities thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of + said persons. +</p> +<p> + And I hereby enjoin upon the people so declared to be free to abstain + from all violence, unless in necessary self-defense; and I recommend to + them that in all cases when allowed they labor faithfully for reasonable + wages. +</p> +<p> + And I further declare and make known that such persons of suitable + condition will be received into the armed service of the United States + to garrison forts, positions, stations, and other places and to man + vessels of all sorts in said service. +</p> +<p> + And upon this act, sincerely believed to be an act of justice, warranted + by the Constitution upon military necessity, I invoke the considerate + judgment of mankind and the gracious favor of Almighty God. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 1st day of January, A.D. 1863, and + of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-seventh. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0022"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + EXECUTIVE ORDERS. +</h2> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, December 22, 1862</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Army of the Potomac</i>: +</p> +<p> + I have just read your commanding general's preliminary report of the + battle of Fredericksburg. Although you were not successful, the attempt + was not an error nor the failure other than an accident. The courage + with which you in an open field maintained the contest against an + intrenched foe and the consummate skill and success with which you + crossed and recrossed the river in face of the enemy show that you + possess all the qualities of a great army, which will yet give victory + to the cause of the country and of popular government. Condoling with + the mourners for the dead and sympathizing with the severely wounded, I + congratulate you that the number of both is comparatively so small. +</p> +<p> + I tender to you, officers and soldiers, the thanks of the nation. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, January 4, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> +Hon. GIDEON WELLES,<br> + <i>Secretary of the Navy</i>. +</p> +<p> + DEAR SIR: As many persons who come well recommended for loyalty and + service to the Union cause, and who are refugees from rebel oppression + in the State of Virginia, make application to me for authority and + permission to remove their families and property to protection within + the Union lines by means of our armed gunboats on the Potomac River and + Chesapeake Bay, you are hereby requested to hear and consider all such + applications and to grant such assistance to this class of persons as in + your judgment their merits may render proper and as may in each case be + consistent with the perfect and complete efficiency of the naval service + and with military expediency. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>January 8, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered by the President</i>: +</p> +<p> + Whereas on the 13th day of November, 1862, it was ordered that the + Attorney-General be charged with the superintendence and direction of + all proceedings to be had under the act of Congress of the 17th of July, + entitled "An act to suppress insurrection, to punish treason and + rebellion, and to seize and confiscate the property of rebels, and for + other purposes," in so far as may concern the seizure, prosecution, + and condemnation of the estate, property, and effects of rebels and + traitors, as mentioned and provided for in the fifth, sixth, and + seventh sections of the said act of Congress; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas since that time it has been ascertained that divers prosecutions + have been instituted in the courts of the United States for the + condemnation of property of rebels and traitors under the act of + Congress of August 6, 1861, entitled "An act to confiscate property used + for insurrectionary purposes," which equally require the superintending + care of the Government: Therefore +</p> +<p> + <i>It is now further ordered by the President</i>, That the Attorney-General + be charged with superintendence and direction of all proceedings to be + had under the said last-mentioned act (the act of 1861) as fully in all + respects as under the first-mentioned act (the act of 1862). +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + EDW. BATES,<br> + <i>Attorney-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> +<p> + Whereas by the twelfth section of an act of Congress entitled "An act + to aid in the construction of a railroad and telegraph line from the + Missouri River to the Pacific Ocean, and to secure to the Government the + use of the same for postal, military, and other purposes," approved July + 1, 1862, it is made the duty of the President of the United States to + determine the uniform width of the track of the entire line of the said + railroad and the branches of the same; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas application has been made to me by the Leavenworth, Pawnee and + Western Railroad Company, a company authorized by the act of Congress + above mentioned to construct a branch of said railroad, to fix the gauge + thereof: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States of + America, do determine that the uniform width of the track of said + railroad and all its branches which are provided for in the aforesaid + act of Congress shall be 5 feet, and that this order be filed in the + office of the Secretary of the Interior for the information and guidance + of all concerned. +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 21st day of January, A.D. 1863. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0023"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + PROCLAMATION. +</h2> +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas objects of interest to the United States require that the Senate + should be convened at 12 o'clock on the 4th of March next to receive and + act upon such communications as may be made to it on the part of the + Executive: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, have + considered it to be my duty to issue this my proclamation, declaring + that an extraordinary occasion requires the Senate of the United States + to convene for the transaction of business at the Capitol, in the city + of Washington, on the 4th day of March next, at 12 o'clock at noon on + that day, of which all who shall at that time be entitled to act as + members of that body are hereby required to take notice. +</p> +<p> + Given under my hand and the seal of the United States, at Washington, + the 28th day of February, A.D. 1863, and of the Independence of the + United States of America the eighty-seventh. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0024"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + SPECIAL MESSAGES. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 5, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + For the reasons stated by the Secretary of War, I present the nomination + of the persons named in the accompanying communication for confirmation + of the rank which they held at the time they fell in the service of + their country. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, March 5, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</p> +<p> + SIR: The following-named persons having fallen in battle after having + received appointments to the grades for which they are herein nominated, + I have the honor to propose that their names be submitted to the Senate + for confirmation of their rank, as a token of this Government's + approbation of their distinguished merit. This has been the practice of + the Department in similar cases, brevet nominations and confirmations + having been made after the decease of gallant officers. +</p> +<p> + <i>To be major-generals</i>. +</p> +<p> + Brigadier-General Philip Kearny, of the United States Volunteers, July + 14, 1862. (Killed in the battle of Chantilly.) +</p> +<p> + Brigadier-General Israel B. Richardson, of the United States Volunteers, + July 4, 1862. (Died of wounds received at the battle of Antietam.) +</p> +<p> + Brigadier-General Jesse L. Reno, of the United States Volunteers, July + 18, 1862. (Killed in the battle of South Mountain.) +</p> +<p> + <i>To be brigadier-general</i>. +</p> +<p> + Captain William R. Terrill, of the Fifth United States Artillery, + September 9, 1862. (Killed in the battle of Perryville.) +</p> +<p> + I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 5, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + For the reasons stated by the Secretary of War, I present the nomination + of the persons named in the accompanying communication for confirmation + of the rank of major-general, in which capacity they were acting at the + time they fell in battle. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, March 5, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</p> +<p> + SIR: The following-named persons having fallen in battle while + performing the duty and exercising command as major-generals, a rank + which they had earned in the service of their country, I have the honor + to propose that their names be submitted to the Senate for confirmation, + as a token of the Government's appreciation of their distinguished + merit. This is in accordance with the practice in similar cases, brevet + nominations and confirmations having been made after the decease of + gallant officers. +</p> +<p> + <i>To be major-generals of volunteers</i>. +</p> +<p> + Brigadier-General Joseph K.F. Mansfield, of the United States Army, July + 18, 1862. (Died of wounds received in the battle of Antietam, Md.) +</p> +<p> + Brigadier-General Isaac I. Stevens, of the United States Volunteers, + July 18, 1862. (Killed in the battle of Chantilly, Va.) +</p> +<p> + I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>March 12, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith transmit to the Senate, for its consideration and + ratification, a treaty with the chiefs and headmen of the Chippewas of + the Mississippi and the Pillagers and Lake Winnibigoshish bands of + Chippewa Indians. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0025"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + PROCLAMATIONS. +</h2> +<center> + [From Final Report of the Provost-Marshal-General (March 17, 1866), + p. 218.] +</center> +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>March 10 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + In pursuance of the twenty-sixth section of the act of Congress entitled + "An act for enrolling and calling out the national forces, and for other + purposes," approved on the 3d day of March, 1863, I, Abraham Lincoln, + President and Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United + States, do hereby order and command that all soldiers enlisted or + drafted in the service of the United States now absent from their + regiments without leave shall forthwith return to their respective + regiments. +</p> +<p> + And I do hereby declare and proclaim that all soldiers now absent from + their respective regiments without leave who shall, on or before the 1st + day of April, 1863, report themselves at any rendezvous designated by + the general orders of the War Department No. 58, hereto annexed, may be + restored to their respective regiments without punishment, except the + forfeiture of pay and allowances during their absence; and all who do + not return within the time above specified shall be arrested as + deserters and punished as the law provides; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas evil-disposed and disloyal persons at sundry places have enticed + and procured soldiers to desert and absent themselves from their + regiments, thereby weakening the strength of the armies and prolonging + the war, giving aid and comfort to the enemy, and cruelly exposing the + gallant and faithful soldiers remaining in the ranks to increased + hardships and danger: +</p> +<p> + I do therefore call upon all patriotic and faithful citizens to oppose + and resist the aforementioned dangerous and treasonable crimes, and to + aid in restoring to their regiments all soldiers absent without leave, + and to assist in the execution of the act of Congress "for enrolling and + calling out the national forces, and for other purposes," and to support + the proper authorities in the prosecution and punishment of offenders + against said act and in suppressing the insurrection and rebellion. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand. +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 10th day of March, A.D. 1863, + and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-seventh. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 58. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, March 10, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + I. The following is the twenty-sixth section of the act "for enrolling + and calling out the national forces, and for other purposes," approved + March 3, 1863: +</p> +<p> + "SEC. 26. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That immediately after the + passage of this act the President shall issue his proclamation declaring + that all soldiers now absent from their regiments without leave may + return, within a time specified, to such place or places as he may + indicate in his proclamation, and be restored to their respective + regiments without punishment, except the forfeiture of their pay and + allowances during their absence; and all deserters who shall not return + within the time so specified by the President shall, upon being + arrested, be punished as the law provides." +</p> +<p> + II. The following places<a href="#note-9"><small>9</small></a> are designated as rendezvous to which + soldiers absent without leave may report themselves to the officers + named on or before the 1st day of April next under the proclamation of + the President of this date. +</p> +<p> + III. Commanding officers at the above-named places of rendezvous, or, in + the absence of commanding officers, superintendents of recruiting + service, recruiting officers, and mustering and disbursing officers, + will take charge of all soldiers presenting themselves as above directed + and cause their names to be enrolled, and copy of said roll will, on or + before the 10th day of April, be sent to the Adjutant-General of the + Army. +</p> +<p> + The soldiers so reporting themselves will be sent without delay to their + several regiments, a list of those sent being furnished to the + commanding officer of the regiment and a duplicate to the + Adjutant-General of the Army. The commanding officer of the regiment + will immediately report to the Adjutant-General of the Army the receipt + of any soldiers so sent to him. +</p> +<p> + By order of the Secretary of War: +</p> +<p class="r"> +L. THOMAS,<br> + <i>Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas the Senate of the United States, devoutly recognizing the + supreme authority and just government of Almighty God in all the affairs + of men and of nations, has by a resolution requested the President to + designate and set apart a day for national prayer and humiliation; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas it is the duty of nations as well as of men to own their + dependence upon the overruling power of God, to confess their sins and + transgressions in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine + repentance will lead to mercy and pardon, and to recognize the sublime + truth, announced in the Holy Scriptures and proven by all history, that + those nations only are blessed whose God is the Lord; +</p> +<p> + And, insomuch as we know that by His divine law nations, like + individuals, are subjected to punishments and chastisements in this + world, may we not justly fear that the awful calamity of civil war which + now desolates the land may be but a punishment inflicted upon us for our + presumptuous sins, to the needful end of our national reformation as a + whole people? We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of + Heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; + we have grown in numbers, wealth, and power as no other nation has ever + grown. But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand + which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened + us, and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, + that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and + virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too + self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, + too proud to pray to the God that made us. +</p> +<p> + It behooves us, then, to humble ourselves before the offended Power, to + confess our national sins, and to pray for clemency and forgiveness. +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, in compliance with the request, and fully concurring in + the views of the Senate, I do by this my proclamation designate and set + apart Thursday, the 30th day of April, 1863, as a day of national + humiliation, fasting, and prayer. And I do hereby request all the people + to abstain on that day from their ordinary secular pursuits, and to + unite at their several places of public worship and their respective + homes in keeping the day holy to the Lord and devoted to the humble + discharge of the religious duties proper to that solemn occasion. +</p> +<p> + All this being done in sincerity and truth, let us then rest humbly in + the hope authorized by the divine teachings that the united cry of the + nation will be heard on high and answered with blessings no less than + the pardon of our national sins and the restoration of our now divided + and suffering country to its former happy condition of unity and peace. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 30th day of March, A.D. 1863, + and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-seventh. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas, in pursuance of the act of Congress approved July 13, 1861, I + did, by proclamation dated August 16, 1861, declare that the inhabitants + of the States of Georgia, South Carolina, Virginia, North Carolina, + Tennessee, Alabama, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Florida + (except the inhabitants of that part of Virginia lying west of the + Alleghany Mountains and of such other parts of that State and the other + States hereinbefore named as might maintain a legal adhesion to the + Union and the Constitution or might be from time to time occupied and + controlled by forces of the United States engaged in the dispersion of + said insurgents) were in a state of insurrection against the United + States, and that all commercial intercourse between the same and the + inhabitants thereof, with the exceptions aforesaid, and the citizens of + other States and other parts of the United States was unlawful and would + remain unlawful until such insurrection should cease or be suppressed, + and that all goods and chattels, wares and merchandise, coming from any + of said States, with the exceptions aforesaid, into other parts of the + United States without the license and permission of the President, + through the Secretary of the Treasury, or proceeding to any of said + States, with the exceptions aforesaid, by land or water, together with + the vessel or vehicle conveying the same to or from said States, with + the exceptions aforesaid, would be forfeited to the United States; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas experience has shown that the exceptions made in and by said + proclamation embarrass the due enforcement of said act of July 13, 1861, + and the proper regulation of the commercial intercourse authorized by + said act with the loyal citizens of said States: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do + hereby revoke the said exceptions, and declare that the inhabitants of + the States of Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, + Alabama, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, Florida, and Virginia + (except the forty-eight counties of Virginia designated as West + Virginia, and except also the ports of New Orleans, Key West, Port + Royal, and Beaufort, in North Carolina) are in a state of insurrection + against the United States, and that all commercial intercourse not + licensed and conducted as provided in said act between the said States + and the inhabitants thereof, with the exceptions aforesaid, and the + citizens of other States and other parts of the United States is + unlawful and will remain unlawful until such insurrection shall cease or + has been suppressed and notice thereof has been duly given by + proclamation; and all cotton, tobacco, and other products, and all other + goods and chattels, wares and merchandise, coming from any of said + States, with the exceptions aforesaid, into other parts of the United + States, or proceeding to any of said States, with the exceptions + aforesaid, without the license and permission of the President, through + the Secretary of the Treasury, will, together with the vessel or vehicle + conveying the same, be forfeited to the United States. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 2d day of April, A.D. 1863, and + of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-seventh. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h4> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h4> +<p> + <i>To all to whom these presents shall come, greeting</i>: +</p> +<p> + Know ye that, whereas a paper bearing date the 31st day of December + last, purporting to be an agreement between the United States and one + Bernard Kock for immigration of persons of African extraction to a + dependency of the Republic of Hayti, was signed by me on behalf of the + party of the first part; but whereas the said instrument was and has + since remained incomplete in consequence of the seal of the United + States not having been thereunto affixed; and whereas I have been moved + by considerations by me deemed sufficient to withhold my authority for + affixing the said seal: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States, do hereby authorize the Secretary of State to cancel my + signature to the instrument aforesaid. +</p> +<p> + Done at Washington, this 16th day of April, A.D. 1863. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas by the act of Congress approved the 31st day of December last + the State of West Virginia was declared to be one of the United States + of America, and was admitted into the Union on an equal footing with the + original States in all respects whatever, upon the condition that + certain changes should be duly made in the proposed constitution for + that State; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas proof of a compliance with that condition, as required by the + second section of the act aforesaid has been submitted to me: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States, do hereby, in pursuance of the act of Congress aforesaid, + declare and proclaim that the said act shall take effect and be in force + from and after sixty days from the date hereof. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 20th day of April, A.D. 1863, + and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-seventh. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas the Congress of the United States at its last session enacted a + law entitled "An act for enrolling and calling out the national forces + and for other purposes," which was approved on the 3d day of March last; + and +</p> +<p> + Whereas it is recited in the said act that there now exists in the + United States an insurrection and rebellion against the authority + thereof, and it is, under the Constitution of the United States, the + duty of the Government to suppress insurrection and rebellion, to + guarantee to each State a republican form of government, and to preserve + the public tranquillity; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas for these high purposes a military force is indispensable, to + raise and support which all persons ought willingly to contribute; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas no service can be more praiseworthy and honorable than that + which is rendered for the maintenance of the Constitution and Union and + the consequent preservation of free government; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas, for the reasons thus recited, it was enacted by the said + statute that all able-bodied male citizens of the United States and + persons of foreign birth who shall have declared on oath their intention + to become citizens under and in pursuance of the laws thereof, between + the ages of 20 and 45 years (with certain exceptions not necessary to be + here mentioned), are declared to constitute the national forces, and + shall be liable to perform military duty in the service of the United + States when called out by the President for that purpose; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas it is claimed by and in behalf of persons of foreign birth + within the ages specified in said act who have heretofore declared on + oath their intentions to become citizens under and in pursuance of the + laws of the United States, and who have not exercised the right of + suffrage or any other political franchise under the laws of the United + States or of any of the States thereof, that they are not absolutely + concluded by their aforesaid declaration of intention from renouncing + their purpose to become citizens, and that, on the contrary, such + persons, under treaties or the law of nations, retain a right to + renounce that purpose and to forego the privileges of citizenship and + residence within the United States under the obligations imposed by the + aforesaid act of Congress: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, to avoid all misapprehensions concerning the liability + of persons concerned to perform the service required by such enactment, + and to give it full effect, I do hereby order and proclaim that no plea + of alienage will be received or allowed to exempt from the obligations + imposed by the aforesaid act of Congress any person of foreign birth who + shall have declared on oath his intention to become a citizen of the + United States under the laws thereof, and who shall be found within the + United States at any time during the continuance of the present + insurrection and rebellion or after the expiration of the period of + sixty-five days from the date of this proclamation, nor shall any such + plea of alienage be allowed in favor of any such person who has so as + aforesaid declared his intention to become a citizen of the United + States and shall have exercised at any time the right of suffrage or + any other political franchise within the United States under the laws + thereof or under the laws of any of the several States. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 8th day of May, A.D. 1863, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty-seventh. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas the armed insurrectionary combinations now existing in several + of the States are threatening to make inroads into the States of + Maryland, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, requiring immediately + an additional military force for the service of the United States: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States and + Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy thereof and of the militia of + the several States when called into actual service, do hereby call into + the service of the United States 100,000 militia from the States + following, namely: From the State of Maryland, 10,000; from the State of + Pennsylvania, 50,000; from the State of Ohio, 30,000; from the State of + West Virginia, 10,000—to be mustered into the service of the United + States forthwith and to serve for the period of six months from the date + of such muster into said service, unless sooner discharged; to be + mustered in as infantry, artillery, and cavalry, in proportions which + will be made known through the War Department, which Department will + also designate the several places of rendezvous. These militia to be + organized according to the rules and regulations of the volunteer + service and such orders as may hereafter be issued, The States aforesaid + will be respectively credited under the enrollment act for the militia + services rendered under this proclamation. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 15th day of June, A.D. 1863, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty-seventh. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + It has pleased Almighty God to hearken to the supplications and prayers + of an afflicted people and to vouchsafe to the Army and the Navy of the + United States victories on land and on the sea so signal and so + effective as to furnish reasonable grounds for augmented confidence that + the Union of these States will be maintained, their Constitution + preserved, and their peace and prosperity permanently restored. But + these victories have been accorded not without sacrifices of life, limb, + health, and liberty, incurred by brave, loyal, and patriotic citizens. + Domestic affliction in every part of the country follows in the train of + these fearful bereavements. It is meet and right to recognize and + confess the presence of the Almighty Father and the power of His hand + equally in these triumphs and in these sorrows: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I do set apart Thursday, the 6th day of + August next, to be observed as a day for national thanksgiving, praise, + and prayer, and I invite the people of the United States to assemble on + that occasion in their customary places of worship and in the forms + approved by their own consciences render the homage due to the Divine + Majesty for the wonderful things He has done in the nation's behalf and + invoke the influence of His Holy Spirit to subdue the anger which has + produced and so long sustained a needless and cruel rebellion, to change + the hearts of the insurgents, to guide the counsels of the Government + with wisdom adequate to so great a national emergency, and to visit with + tender care and consolation throughout the length and breadth of our + land all those who, through the vicissitudes of marches, voyages, + battles, and sieges, have been brought to suffer in mind, body, or + estate, and finally to lead the whole nation through the paths of + repentance and submission to the divine will back to the perfect + enjoyment of union and fraternal peace. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 15th day of July, A.D. 1863, and + of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-eighth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas the Constitution of the United States has ordained that the + privilege of the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> shall not be suspended unless + when, in cases of rebellion or invasion, the public safety may require + it; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas a rebellion was existing on the 3d day of March, 1863, which + rebellion is still existing; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas by a statute which was approved on that day it was enacted by + the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States in Congress + assembled that during the present insurrection the President of the + United States, whenever in his judgment the public safety may require, + is authorized to suspend the privilege of the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> in + any case throughout the United States or any part thereof; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas, in the judgment of the President, the public safety does + require that the privilege of the said writ shall now be suspended + throughout the United States in the cases where, by the authority of the + President of the United States, military, naval, and civil officers of + the United States, or any of them, hold persons under their command or + in their custody, either as prisoners of war, spies, or aiders or + abettors of the enemy, or officers, soldiers, or seamen enrolled or + drafted or mustered or enlisted in or belonging to the land or naval + forces of the United States, or as deserters therefrom, or otherwise + amenable to military law or the rules and articles of war or the rules + or regulations prescribed for the military or naval services by + authority of the President of the United States, or for resisting a + draft, or for any other offense against the military or naval service: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do + hereby proclaim and make known to all whom it may concern that the + privilege of the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> is suspended throughout the + United States in the several cases before mentioned, and that this + suspension will continue throughout the duration of the said rebellion + or until this proclamation shall, by a subsequent one to be issued by + the President of the United States, be modified or revoked. And I do + hereby require all magistrates, attorneys, and other civil officers + within the United States and all officers and others in the military and + naval services of the United States to take distinct notice of this + suspension and to give it full effect, and all citizens of the United + States to conduct and govern themselves accordingly and in conformity + with the Constitution of the United States and the laws of Congress in + such case made and provided. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed this 15th day of September, A.D. 1863, + and of the Independence of the United States of America the + eighty-eighth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas in my proclamation of the 27th of April, 1861, the ports of the + States of Virginia and North Carolina were, for reasons therein set + forth, placed under blockade; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the port of Alexandria, Va., has since been blockaded, but as + the blockade of said port may now be safely relaxed with advantage to + the interests of commerce: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States, pursuant to the authority in me vested by the fifth + section of the act of Congress approved on the 13th of July, 1861, + entitled "An act further to provide for the collection of duties on + imports and for other purposes," do hereby declare that the blockade of + the said port of Alexandria shall so far cease and determine from and + after this date that commercial intercourse with said port, except as to + persons, things, and information contraband of war, may from this date + be carried on, subject to the laws of the United States and to the + limitations and in pursuance of the regulations which are prescribed by + the Secretary of the Treasury in his order which is appended to my + proclamation of the 12th of May, 1862. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 24th day of September, A.D. 1863, + and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-eighth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the + blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, + which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the + source from which they come, others have been added which are of so + extraordinary a nature that they can not fail to penetrate and soften + even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever-watchful + providence of Almighty God. +</p> +<p> + In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which + has sometimes seemed to foreign states to invite and to provoke their + aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been + maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has + prevailed everywhere, except in the theater of military conflict, while + that theater has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and + navies of the Union. +</p> +<p> + Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of + peaceful industry to the national defense have not arrested the plow, + the shuttle, or the ship; the ax has enlarged the borders of our + settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious + metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population + has steadily increased notwithstanding the waste that has been made in + the camp, the siege, and the battlefield, and the country, rejoicing in + the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to + expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom. +</p> +<p> + No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these + great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, + while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless + remembered mercy. +</p> +<p> + It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, + reverently, and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one + voice, by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my + fellow-citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who + are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart + and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving + and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens. And + I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due + to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings they do also, with + humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend + to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners, + or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably + engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty hand + to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it, as soon as may be + consistent with the divine purposes, to the full enjoyment of peace, + harmony, tranquillity, and union. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 3d day of October, A.D. 1863, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty-eighth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas the term of service of a part of the volunteer forces of the + United States will expire during the coming year; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas, in addition to the men raised by the present draft, it is + deemed expedient to call out 300,000 volunteers to serve for three years + or the war, not, however, exceeding three years: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States and + Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy thereof and of the militia of + the several States when called into actual service, do issue this my + proclamation, calling upon the governors of the different States to + raise and have enlisted into the United States service for the various + companies and regiments in the field from their respective States their + quotas of 300,000 men. +</p> +<p> + I further proclaim that all volunteers thus called out and duly enlisted + shall receive advance pay, premium, and bounty, as heretofore + communicated to the governors of States by the War Department through + the Provost-Marshal-General's Office by special letters. +</p> +<p> + I further proclaim that all volunteers received under this call, as well + as all others not heretofore credited, shall be duly credited on and + deducted from the quotas established for the next draft. +</p> +<p> + I further proclaim that if any State shall fail to raise the quota + assigned to it by the War Department under this call, then a draft for + the deficiency in said quota shall be made on said State, or on the + districts of said State, for their due proportion of said quota; and the + said draft shall commence on the 5th day of January, 1864. +</p> +<p> + And I further proclaim that nothing in this proclamation shall interfere + with existing orders, or those which may be issued, for the present + draft in the States where it is now in progress or where it has not yet + commenced. +</p> +<p> + The quotas of the States and districts will be assigned by the War + Department, through the Provost-Marshal-General's Office, due regard + being had for the men heretofore furnished, whether by volunteering or + drafting, and the recruiting will be conducted in accordance with such + instructions as have been or may be issued by that Department. +</p> +<p> + In issuing this proclamation I address myself not only to the governors + of the several States, but also to the good and loyal people thereof, + invoking them to lend their willing, cheerful, and effective aid to the + measures thus adopted, with a view to reenforce our victorious armies + now in the field and bring our needful military operations to a + prosperous end, thus closing forever the fountains of sedition and civil + war. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 17th day of October, A.D. 1863, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty-eighth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0026"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + EXECUTIVE ORDERS. +</h2> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, March 31, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + Whereas by the act of Congress approved July 13, 1861, entitled "An + act to provide for the collection of duties on imports, and for other + purposes," all commercial intercourse between the inhabitants of such + States as should by proclamation be declared in insurrection against the + United States and the citizens of the rest of the United States was + prohibited so long as such condition of hostility should continue, + except as the same shall be licensed and permitted by the President to + be conducted and carried on only in pursuance of rules and regulations + prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas it appears that a partial restoration of such intercourse + between the inhabitants of sundry places and sections heretofore + declared in insurrection in pursuance of said act and the citizens of + the rest of the United States will favorably affect the public + interests: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, + exercising the authority and discretion confided to me by the said act + of Congress, do hereby license and permit such commercial intercourse + between the citizens of loyal States and the inhabitants of such + insurrectionary States in the cases and under the restrictions described + and expressed in the regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the + Treasury bearing even date with these presents, or in such other + regulations as he may hereafter, with my approval, prescribe. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, June 22, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + Whereas the act of Congress approved the 3d day of March, A.D. 1863, + entitled "An act to provide circuit courts for the districts of + California and Oregon, and for other purposes," authorized the + appointment of one additional associate justice of the Supreme Court of + the United States, and provided that the districts of California and + Oregon should constitute the tenth circuit and that the other circuits + should remain as then constituted by law; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas Stephen J. Field was appointed the said additional associate + justice of the Supreme Court since the last adjournment of said court, + and consequently he was not allotted to the said circuit according to + the fifth section of the act of Congress entitled "An act to amend the + judicial system of the United States," approved the 29th day of April, + 1802: +</p> +<p> + Now I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, under the + authority of said section, do allot the said associate justice, Stephen + J. Field, to the said tenth circuit. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + Attest: +<br> +TITIAN J. COFFEY,<br> + <i>Attorney-General ad interim</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, July 4, 1863—10 a.m.</i> +</p> +<p> + The President announces to the country that news from the Army of the + Potomac up to 10 o'clock p.m. of the 3d is such as to cover that army + with the highest honor, to promise a great success to the cause of the + Union, and to claim the condolence of all for the many gallant fallen; + and that for this he especially desires that on this day He whose will, + not ours, should ever be done be everywhere remembered and ever + reverenced with profoundest gratitude. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 211. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, July 9, 1863</i>. +</p> +<center> + ORDER ABOLISHING MILITARY GOVERNORSHIP OF ARKANSAS. +</center> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That the appointment of John S. Phelps as military governor + of the State of Arkansas and of Amos F. Eno as secretary be revoked, and + the office of military governor in said State is abolished, and that all + authority, appointments, and power heretofore granted to and exercised + by them, or either of them, as military governor or secretary, or by any + person or persons appointed by or acting under them, is hereby revoked + and annulled. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +E.D. TOWNSEND,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, July 25, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + Hon. SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. +</p> +<p> + SIR: Certain matters have come to my notice, and considered by me, which + induce me to believe that it will conduce to the public interest for you + to add to the general instructions given to our naval commanders in + relation to contraband trade propositions substantially as follows, to + wit: +</p> +<p> + First. You will avoid the reality, and as far as possible the + appearance, of using any neutral port to watch neutral vessels, and then + to dart out and seize them on their departure. +</p> +<p> + NOTE.—Complaint is made that this has been practiced at the port of St. + Thomas, which practice, if it exists, is disapproved and must cease. +</p> +<p> + Second. You will not in any case detain the crew of a captured neutral + vessel or any other subject of a neutral power on board such vessel, as + prisoners of war or otherwise, except the small number necessary as + witnesses in the prize court. +</p> +<p> + NOTE.—The practice here forbidden is also charged to exist, which, if + true, is disapproved and must cease. +</p> +<p> + My dear sir, it is not intended to be insinuated that you have, been + remiss in the performance of the arduous and responsible duties of your + Department, which, I take pleasure in affirming, has in your hands been + conducted with admirable success. Yet, while your subordinates are + almost of necessity brought into angry collision with the subjects of + foreign states, the representatives of those states and yourself do not + come into immediate contact for the purpose of keeping the peace, in + spite of such collisions. At that point there is an ultimate and heavy + responsibility upon me. +</p> +<p> + What I propose is in strict accordance with international law, and is + therefore unobjectionable; whilst, if it does no other good, it will + contribute to sustain a considerable portion of the present British + ministry in their places, who, if displaced, are sure to be replaced by + others more unfavorable to us. +</p> +<p> + Your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, July 30, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + It is the duty of every government to give protection to its citizens, + of whatever class, color, or condition, and especially to those who are + duly organized as soldiers in the public service. The law of nations and + the usages and customs of war, as carried on by civilized powers, permit + no distinction as to color in the treatment of prisoners of war as + public enemies. To sell or enslave any captured person on account of his + color, and for no offense against the laws of war, is a relapse into + barbarism and a crime against the civilization of the age. +</p> +<p> + The Government of the United States will give the same protection to all + its soldiers, and if the enemy shall sell or enslave anyone because of + his color the offense shall be punished by retaliation upon the enemy's + prisoners in our possession. +</p> +<p> + <i>It is therefore ordered</i>, That for every soldier of the United States + killed in violation of the laws of war a rebel soldier shall be + executed, and for every one enslaved by the enemy or sold into slavery + a rebel soldier shall be placed at hard labor on the public works and + continued at such labor until the other shall be released and receive + the treatment due to a prisoner of war. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington City, August 25, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, first. That clearances issued by the Treasury Department for + vessels or merchandise bound for the port of New Orleans for the + military necessities of the department, certified by Brigadier-General + Shepley, the military governor of Louisiana, shall be allowed to enter + said port. +</p> +<p> + Second. That vessels and domestic produce from New Orleans permitted by + the military governor of Louisiana at New Orleans for the military + purpose of his department shall on his permit be allowed to pass from + said port to its destination to any port not blockaded by the United + States. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, August 31, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That the Executive order of November 21, 1862, prohibiting + the exportation of arms, ammunition, or munitions of war from the United + States, be, and the same hereby is, modified so far as to permit the + exportation of imported arms, ammunition, and munitions of war to the + ports whence they were shipped for the United States. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> + [EDWIN M. STANTON.] +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, September 4, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That the Executive order dated November 21, 1862, prohibiting + the exportation from the United States of arms, ammunition, or munitions + of war, under which the commandants of departments were, by order of the + Secretary of War dated May 13, 1863, directed to prohibit the purchase + and sale for exportation from the United States of all horses and mules + within their respective commands, and to take and appropriate to the use + of the United States any horses, mules, and live stock designed for + exportation, be so far modified that any arms heretofore imported into + the United States may be reexported to the place of original shipment, + and that any live stock raised in any State or Territory bounded by the + Pacific Ocean may be exported from any port of such State or Territory. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, September 24, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered by the President of the United States</i>, That Major-General + Hooker be, and he is hereby, authorized to take military possession of + all railroads, with their cars, locomotives, plants, and equipments, + that may be necessary for the execution of the military operation + committed to his charge; and all officers, agents, and employees of said + roads are directed to render their aid and assistance therein and to + respect and obey his commands, pursuant to the act of Congress in such + case made and provided. +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, November 10, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + In consideration of the peculiar circumstances and pursuant to the + comity deemed to be due to friendly powers, any tobacco in the United + States belonging to the government either of France, Austria, or any + other state with which this country is at peace, and which tobacco was + purchased and paid for by such government prior to the 4th day of March, + 1861, may be exported from any port of the United States under the + supervision and upon the responsibility of naval officers of such + governments and in conformity to such regulations as may be presented + by the Secretary of State of the United States, and not otherwise. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0027"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + THIRD ANNUAL MESSAGE. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + DECEMBER 8, 1863. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + Another year of health and of sufficiently abundant harvests has passed. + For these, and especially for the improved condition of our national + affairs, our renewed and profoundest gratitude to God is due. +</p> +<p> + We remain in peace and friendship with foreign powers. +</p> +<p> + The efforts of disloyal citizens of the United States to involve us in + foreign wars to aid an inexcusable insurrection have been unavailing. + Her Britannic Majesty's Government, as was justly expected, have + exercised their authority to prevent the departure of new hostile + expeditions from British ports. The Emperor of France has by a like + proceeding promptly vindicated the neutrality which he proclaimed at the + beginning of the contest. Questions of great intricacy and importance + have arisen out of the blockade and other belligerent operations between + the Government and several of the maritime powers, but they have been + discussed and, as far as was possible, accommodated in a spirit of + frankness, justice, and mutual good will. It is especially gratifying + that our prize courts, by the impartiality of their adjudications, have + commanded the respect and confidence of maritime powers. +</p> +<p> + The supplemental treaty between the United States and Great Britain for + the suppression of the African slave trade, made on the 17th day of + February last, has been duly ratified and carried into execution. It is + believed that so far as American ports and American citizens are + concerned that inhuman and odious traffic has been brought to an end. +</p> +<p> + I shall submit for the consideration of the Senate a convention for the + adjustment of possessory claims in Washington Territory arising out of + the treaty of the 15th June, 1846, between the United States and Great + Britain, and which have been the source of some disquiet among the + citizens of that now rapidly improving part of the country. +</p> +<p> + A novel and important question, involving the extent of the maritime + jurisdiction of Spain in the waters which surround the island of Cuba, + has been debated without reaching an agreement, and it is proposed in an + amicable spirit to refer it to the arbitrament of a friendly power. A + convention for that purpose will be submitted to the Senate. +</p> +<p> + I have thought it proper, subject to the approval of the Senate, to + concur with the interested commercial powers in an arrangement for the + liquidation of the Scheldt dues, upon the principles which have been + heretofore adopted in regard to the imposts upon navigation in the + waters of Denmark. +</p> +<p> + The long-pending controversy between this Government and that of Chile + touching the seizure at Sitana, in Peru, by Chilean officers, of a large + amount in treasure belonging to citizens of the United States has been + brought to a close by the award of His Majesty the King of the Belgians, + to whose arbitration the question was referred by the parties. The + subject was thoroughly and patiently examined by that justly respected + magistrate, and although the sum awarded to the claimants may not have + been as large as they expected there is no reason to distrust the wisdom + of His Majesty's decision. That decision was promptly complied with by + Chile when intelligence in regard to it reached that country. +</p> +<p> + The joint commission under the act of the last session for carrying into + effect the convention with Peru on the subject of claims has been + organized at Lima, and is engaged in the business intrusted to it. +</p> +<p> + Difficulties concerning interoceanic transit through Nicaragua are in + course of amicable adjustment. +</p> +<p> + In conformity with principles set forth in my last annual message, I + have received a representative from the United States of Colombia, and + have accredited a minister to that Republic. +</p> +<p> + Incidents occurring in the progress of our civil war have forced upon my + attention the uncertain state of international questions touching the + rights of foreigners in this country and of United States citizens + abroad. In regard to some governments these rights are at least + partially defined by treaties. In no instance, however, is it expressly + stipulated that in the event of civil war a foreigner residing in this + country within the lines of the insurgents is to be exempted from the + rule which classes him as a belligerent, in whose behalf the Government + of his country can not expect any privileges or immunities distinct from + that character. I regret to say, however, that such claims have been put + forward, and in some instances in behalf of foreigners who have lived in + the United States the greater part of their lives. +</p> +<p> + There is reason to believe that many persons born in foreign countries + who have declared their intention to become citizens, or who have been + fully naturalized, have evaded the military duty required of them by + denying the fact and thereby throwing upon the Government the burden of + proof. It has been found difficult or impracticable to obtain this + proof, from the want of guides to the proper sources of information. + These might be supplied by requiring clerks of courts where declarations + of intention may be made or naturalizations effected to send + periodically lists of the names of the persons naturalized or declaring + their intention to become citizens to the Secretary of the Interior, in + whose Department those names might be arranged and printed for general + information. +</p> +<p> + There is also reason to believe that foreigners frequently become + citizens of the United States for the sole purpose of evading duties + imposed by the laws of their native countries, to which on becoming + naturalized here they at once repair, and though never returning to the + United States they still claim the interposition of this Government as + citizens. Many altercations and great prejudices have heretofore arisen + out of this abuse. It is therefore submitted to your serious + consideration. It might be advisable to fix a limit beyond which no + citizen of the United States residing abroad may claim the interposition + of his Government. +</p> +<p> + The right of suffrage has often been assumed and exercised by aliens + under pretenses of naturalization, which they have disavowed when + drafted into the military service. I submit the expediency of such an + amendment of the law as will make the fact of voting an estoppel against + any plea of exemption from military service or other civil obligation on + the ground of alienage. +</p> +<p> + In common with other Western powers, our relations with Japan have been + brought into serious jeopardy through the perverse opposition of the + hereditary aristocracy of the Empire to the enlightened and liberal + policy of the Tycoon, designed to bring the country into the society of + nations. It is hoped, although not with entire confidence, that these + difficulties may be peacefully overcome. I ask your attention to the + claim of the minister residing there for the damages he sustained in the + destruction by fire of the residence of the legation at Yedo. +</p> +<p> + Satisfactory arrangements have been made with the Emperor of Russia, + which, it is believed, will result in effecting a continuous line of + telegraph through that Empire from our Pacific coast. +</p> +<p> + I recommend to your favorable consideration the subject of an + international telegraph across the Atlantic Ocean, and also of a + telegraph between this capital and the national forts along the Atlantic + seaboard and the Gulf of Mexico. Such communications, established with + any reasonable outlay, would be economical as well as effective aids to + the diplomatic, military, and naval service. +</p> +<p> + The consular system of the United States, under the enactments of the + last Congress, begins to be self-sustaining, and there is reason to hope + that it may become entirely so with the increase of trade which will + ensue whenever peace is restored. Our ministers abroad have been + faithful in defending American rights. In protecting commercial + interests our consuls have necessarily had to encounter increased labors + and responsibilities growing out of the war. These they have for the + most part met and discharged with zeal and efficiency. This + acknowledgment justly includes those consuls who, residing in Morocco, + Egypt, Turkey, Japan, China, and other Oriental countries, are charged + with complex functions and extraordinary powers. +</p> +<p> + The condition of the several organized Territories is generally + satisfactory, although Indian disturbances in New Mexico have not been + entirely suppressed. The mineral resources of Colorado, Nevada, Idaho, + New Mexico, and Arizona are proving far richer than has been heretofore + understood. I lay before you a communication on this subject from the + governor of New Mexico. I again submit to your consideration the + expediency of establishing a system for the encouragement of + immigration. Although this source of national wealth and strength is + again flowing with greater freedom than for several years before the + insurrection occurred, there is still a great deficiency of laborers in + every field of industry, especially in agriculture and in our mines, as + well of iron and coal as of the precious metals. While the demand for + labor is much increased here, tens of thousands of persons, destitute of + remunerative occupation, are thronging our foreign consulates and + offering to emigrate to the United States if essential, but very cheap, + assistance can be afforded them. It is easy to see that under the sharp + discipline of civil war the nation is beginning a new life. This noble + effort demands the aid and ought to receive the attention and support of + the Government. +</p> +<p> + Injuries unforeseen by the Government and unintended may in some cases + have been inflicted on the subjects or citizens of foreign countries, + both at sea and on land, by persons in the service of the United States. + As this Government expects redress from other powers when similar + injuries are inflicted by persons in their service upon citizens of the + United States, we must be prepared to do justice to foreigners. If the + existing judicial tribunals are inadequate to this purpose, a special + court may be authorized, with power to hear and decide such claims of + the character referred to as may have arisen under treaties and the + public law. Conventions for adjusting the claims by joint commission + have been proposed to some governments, but no definitive answer to the + proposition has yet been received from any. +</p> +<p> + In the course of the session I shall probably have occasion to request + you to provide indemnification to claimants where decrees of restitution + have been rendered and damages awarded by admiralty courts, and in other + cases where this Government may be acknowledged to be liable in + principle and where the amount of that liability has been ascertained by + an informal arbitration. +</p> +<p> + The proper officers of the Treasury have deemed themselves required by + the law of the United States upon the subject to demand a tax upon the + incomes of foreign consuls in this country. While such a demand may not + in strictness be in derogation of public law, or perhaps of any existing + treaty between the United States and a foreign country, the expediency + of so far modifying the act as to exempt from tax the income of such + consuls as are not citizens of the United States, derived from the + emoluments of their office or from property not situated in the United + States, is submitted to your serious consideration. I make this + suggestion upon the ground that a comity which ought to be reciprocated + exempts our consuls in all other countries from taxation to the extent + thus indicated. The United States, I think, ought not to be + exceptionally illiberal to international trade and commerce. +</p> +<p> + The operations of the Treasury during the last year have been + successfully conducted. The enactment by Congress of a national banking + law has proved a valuable support of the public credit, and the general + legislation in relation to loans has fully answered the expectations of + its favorers. Some amendments may be required to perfect existing laws, + but no change in their principles or general scope is believed to be + needed. +</p> +<p> + Since these measures have been in operation all demands on the Treasury, + including the pay of the Army and Navy, have been promptly met and fully + satisfied. No considerable body of troops, it is believed, were ever + more amply provided and more liberally and punctually paid, and it may + be added that by no people were the burdens incident to a great war ever + more cheerfully borne. +</p> +<p> + The receipts during the year from all sources, including loans and + balance in the Treasury at its commencement, were $901,125,674.86, and + the aggregate disbursements $895,796,630.65, leaving a balance on the + 1st of July, 1863, of $5,329,044.21. Of the receipts there were derived + from customs $69,059,642.40, from internal revenue $37,640,787.95, from + direct tax $1,485,103.61, from lands $167,617.17, from miscellaneous + sources $3,046,615.35, and from loans $776,682,361.57, making the + aggregate $901,125,674.86. Of the disbursements there were for the civil + service $23,253,922.08, for pensions and Indians $4,216,520.79, for + interest on public debt $24,729,846.51, for the War Department + $599,298,600.83, for the Navy Department $63,211,105.27, for payment of + funded and temporary debt $181,086,635.07, making the aggregate + $895,796,630.65 and leaving the balance of $5,329,044.21. But the + payment of funded and temporary debt, having been made from moneys + borrowed during the year, must be regarded as merely nominal payments + and the moneys borrowed to make them as merely nominal receipts, and + their amount, $181,086,635.07, should therefore be deducted both from + receipts and disbursements. This being done there remains as actual + receipts $720,039,039.79 and the actual disbursements $714,709,995.58, + leaving the balance as already stated. +</p> +<p> + The actual receipts and disbursements for the first quarter and the + estimated receipts and disbursements for the remaining three quarters of + the current fiscal year (1864) will be shown in detail by the report of + the Secretary of the Treasury, to which I invite your attention. It is + sufficient to say here that it is not believed that actual results will + exhibit a state of the finances less favorable to the country than the + estimates of that officer heretofore submitted, while it is confidently + expected that at the close of the year both disbursements and debt will + be found very considerably less than has been anticipated. +</p> +<p> + The report of the Secretary of War is a document of great interest. It + consists of— +</p> +<p> + 1. The military operations of the year, detailed in the report of the + General in Chief. +</p> +<p> + 2. The organization of colored persons into the war service. +</p> +<p> + 3. The exchange of prisoners, fully set forth in the letter of General + Hitchcock. +</p> +<p> + 4. The operations under the act for enrolling and calling out the + national forces, detailed in the report of the Provost-Marshal-General. +</p> +<p> + 5. The organization of the invalid corps, and +</p> +<p> + 6. The operation of the several departments of the + Quartermaster-General, Commissary-General, Paymaster-General, Chief of + Engineers, Chief of Ordnance, and Surgeon-General. +</p> +<p> + It has appeared impossible to make a valuable summary of this report, + except such as would be too extended for this place, and hence I content + myself by asking your careful attention to the report itself. +</p> +<p> + The duties devolving on the naval branch of the service during the year + and throughout the whole of this unhappy contest have been discharged + with fidelity and eminent success. The extensive blockade has been + constantly increasing in efficiency as the Navy has expanded, yet on so + long a line it has so far been impossible to entirely suppress illicit + trade. From returns received at the Navy Department it appears that more + than 1,000 vessels have been captured since the blockade was instituted, + and that the value of prizes already sent in for adjudication amounts to + over $13,000,000. +</p> +<p> + The naval force of the United States consists at this time of 588 + vessels completed and in the course of completion, and of these 75 are + ironclad or armored steamers. The events of the war give an increased + interest and importance to the Navy which will probably extend beyond + the war itself. +</p> +<p> + The armored vessels in our Navy completed and in service, or which are + under contract and approaching completion, are believed to exceed in + number those of any other power; but while these may be relied upon for + harbor defense and coast service, others of greater strength and + capacity will be necessary for cruising purposes and to maintain our + rightful position on the ocean. +</p> +<p> + The change that has taken place in naval vessels and naval warfare since + the introduction of steam as a motive power for ships of war demands + either a corresponding change in some of our existing navy-yards or the + establishment of new ones for the construction and necessary repair of + modern naval vessels. No inconsiderable embarrassment, delay, and public + injury have been experienced from the want of such governmental + establishments. The necessity of such a navy-yard, so furnished, at some + suitable place upon the Atlantic seaboard has on repeated occasions been + brought to the attention of Congress by the Navy Department, and is + again presented in the report of the Secretary which accompanies this + communication. I think it my duty to invite your special attention to + this subject, and also to that of establishing a yard and depot for + naval purposes upon one of the Western rivers. A naval force has been + created on those interior waters, and under many disadvantages, within + little more than two years, exceeding in numbers the whole naval force + of the country at the commencement of the present Administration. + Satisfactory and important as have been the performances of the heroic + men of the Navy at this interesting period, they are scarcely more + wonderful than the success of our mechanics and artisans in the + production of war vessels, which has created a new form of naval power. +</p> +<p> + Our country has advantages superior to any other nation in our resources + of iron and timber, with inexhaustible quantities of fuel in the + immediate vicinity of both, and all available and in close proximity to + navigable waters. Without the advantage of public works, the resources + of the nation have been developed and its power displayed in the + construction of a Navy of such magnitude, which has at the very period + of its creation rendered signal service to the Union. +</p> +<p> + The increase of the number of seamen in the public service from 7,500 + men in the spring of 1861 to about 34,000 at the present time has been + accomplished without special legislation or extraordinary bounties to + promote that increase. It has been found, however, that the operation of + the draft, with the high bounties paid for army recruits, is beginning + to affect injuriously the naval service, and will, if not corrected, be + likely to impair its efficiency by detaching seamen from their proper + vocation and inducing them to enter the Army. I therefore respectfully + suggest that Congress might aid both the army and naval services by a + definite provision on this subject which would at the same time be + equitable to the communities more especially interested. +</p> +<p> + I commend to your consideration the suggestions of the Secretary of the + Navy in regard to the policy of fostering and training seamen and also + the education of officers and engineers for the naval service. The Naval + Academy is rendering signal service in preparing midshipmen for the + highly responsible duties which in after life they will be required to + perform. In order that the country should not be deprived of the proper + quota of educated officers, for which legal provision has been made at + the naval school, the vacancies caused by the neglect or omission to + make nominations from the States in insurrection have been filled by the + Secretary of the Navy. The school is now more full and complete than at + any former period, and in every respect entitled to the favorable + consideration of Congress. +</p> +<p> + During the past fiscal year the financial condition of the Post-Office + Department has been one of increasing prosperity, and I am gratified in + being able to state that the actual postal revenue has nearly equaled + the entire expenditures, the latter amounting to $11,314,206.84 and the + former to $11,163,789.59, leaving a deficiency of but $150,417.25. In + 1860, the year immediately preceding the rebellion, the deficiency + amounted to $5,656,705.49, the postal receipts of that year being + $2,645,722.19 less than those of 1863. The decrease since 1860 in the + annual amount of transportation has been only about 25 per cent, but the + annual expenditure on account of the same has been reduced 35 per cent. + It is manifest, therefore, that the Post-Office Department may become + self-sustaining in a few years, even with the restoration of the whole + service. +</p> +<p> + The international conference of postal delegates from the principal + countries of Europe and America, which was called at the suggestion of + the Postmaster-General, met at Paris on the 11th of May last and + concluded its deliberations on the 8th of June. The principles + established by the conference as best adapted to facilitate postal + intercourse between nations and as the basis of future postal + conventions inaugurate a general system of uniform international charges + at reduced rates of postage, and can not fail to produce beneficial + results. +</p> +<p> + I refer you to the report of the Secretary of the Interior, which is + herewith laid before you, for useful and varied information in relation + to the public lands, Indian affairs, patents, pensions, and other + matters of public concern pertaining to his Department. +</p> +<p> + The quantity of land disposed of during the last and the first quarter + of the present fiscal years was 3,841,549 acres, of which 161,911 acres + were sold for cash, 1,456,514 acres were taken up under the homestead + law, and the residue disposed of under laws granting lands for military + bounties, for railroad and other purposes. It also appears that the sale + of the public lands is largely on the increase. +</p> +<p> + It has long been a cherished opinion of some of our wisest statesmen + that the people of the United States had a higher and more enduring + interest in the early settlement and substantial cultivation of the + public lands than in the amount of direct revenue to be derived from the + sale of them. This opinion has had a controlling influence in shaping + legislation upon the subject of our national domain. I may cite as + evidence of this the liberal measures adopted in reference to actual + settlers; the grant to the States of the overflowed lands within their + limits, in order to their being reclaimed and rendered fit for + cultivation; the grants to railway companies of alternate sections of + land upon the contemplated lines of their roads, which when completed + will so largely multiply the facilities for reaching our distant + possessions. This policy has received its most signal and beneficent + illustration in the recent enactment granting homesteads to actual + settlers. Since the 1st day of January last the before-mentioned + quantity of 1,456,514 acres of land have been taken up under its + provisions. This fact and the amount of sales furnish gratifying + evidence of increasing settlement upon the public lands, notwithstanding + the great struggle in which the energies of the nation have been + engaged, and which has required so large a withdrawal of our citizens + from their accustomed pursuits. I cordially concur in the recommendation + of the Secretary of the Interior suggesting a modification of the act in + favor of those engaged in the military and naval service of the United + States. I doubt not that Congress will cheerfully adopt such measures as + will, without essentially changing the general features of the system, + secure to the greatest practicable extent its benefits to those who have + left their homes in the defense of the country in this arduous crisis. +</p> +<p> + I invite your attention to the views of the Secretary as to the + propriety of raising by appropriate legislation a revenue from the + mineral lands of the United States. +</p> +<p> + The measures provided at your last session for the removal of certain + Indian tribes have been carried into effect. Sundry treaties have been + negotiated, which will in due time be submitted for the constitutional + action of the Senate. They contain stipulations for extinguishing the + possessory rights of the Indians to large and valuable tracts of lands. + It is hoped that the effect of these treaties will result in the + establishment of permanent friendly relations with such of these tribes + as have been brought into frequent and bloody collision with our + outlying settlements and emigrants. Sound policy and our imperative duty + to these wards of the Government demand our anxious and constant + attention to their material well-being, to their progress in the arts of + civilization, and, above all, to that moral training which under the + blessing of Divine Providence will confer upon them the elevated and + sanctifying influences, the hopes and consolations, of the Christian + faith. +</p> +<p> + I suggested in my last annual message the propriety of remodeling our + Indian system. Subsequent events have satisfied me of its necessity. The + details set forth in the report of the Secretary evince the urgent need + for immediate legislative action. +</p> +<p> + I commend the benevolent institutions established or patronized by the + Government in this District to your generous and fostering care. +</p> +<p> + The attention of Congress during the last session was engaged to some + extent with a proposition for enlarging the water communication between + the Mississippi River and the northeastern seaboard, which proposition, + however, failed for the time. Since then, upon a call of the greatest + respectability, a convention has been held at Chicago upon the same + subject, a summary of whose views is contained in a memorial addressed + to the President and Congress, and which I now have the honor to lay + before you. That this interest is one which ere long will force its own + way I do not entertain a doubt, while it is submitted entirely to your + wisdom as to what can be done now. Augmented interest is given to this + subject by the actual commencement of work upon the Pacific Railroad, + under auspices so favorable to rapid progress and completion. The + enlarged navigation becomes a palpable need to the great road. +</p> +<p> + I transmit the second annual report of the Commissioner of the + Department of Agriculture, asking your attention to the developments in + that vital interest of the nation. +</p> +<p> + When Congress assembled a year ago, the war had already lasted nearly + twenty months, and there had been many conflicts on both land and sea, + with varying results; the rebellion had been pressed back into reduced + limits; yet the tone of public feeling and opinion, at home and abroad, + was not satisfactory. With other signs, the popular elections then just + past indicated uneasiness among ourselves, while, amid much that was + cold and menacing, the kindest words coming from Europe were uttered in + accents of pity that we were too blind to surrender a hopeless cause. + Our commerce was suffering greatly by a few armed vessels built upon and + furnished from foreign shores, and we were threatened with such + additions from the same quarter as would sweep our trade from the sea + and raise our blockade. We had failed to elicit from European + Governments anything hopeful upon this subject. The preliminary + emancipation proclamation, issued in September, was running its assigned + period to the beginning of the new year. A month later the final + proclamation came, including the announcement that colored men of + suitable condition would be received into the war service. The policy of + emancipation and of employing black soldiers gave to the future a new + aspect, about which hope and fear and doubt contended in uncertain + conflict. According to our political system, as a matter of civil + administration, the General Government had no lawful power to effect + emancipation in any State, and for a long time it had been hoped that + the rebellion could be suppressed without resorting to it as a military + measure. It was all the while deemed possible that the necessity for it + might come, and that if it should the crisis of the contest would then + be presented. It came, and, as was anticipated, it was followed by dark + and doubtful days. Eleven months having now passed, we are permitted to + take another review. The rebel borders are pressed still farther back, + and by the complete opening of the Mississippi the country dominated by + the rebellion is divided into distinct parts, with no practical + communication between them. Tennessee and Arkansas have been + substantially cleared of insurgent control, and influential citizens in + each, owners of slaves and advocates of slavery at the beginning of the + rebellion, now declare openly for emancipation in their respective + States. Of those States not included in the emancipation proclamation, + Maryland and Missouri, neither of which three years ago would tolerate + any restraint upon the extension of slavery into new Territories, only + dispute now as to the best mode of removing it within their own limits. +</p> +<p> + Of those who were slaves at the beginning of the rebellion full 100,000 + are now in the United States military service, about one-half of which + number actually bear arms in the ranks, thus giving the double advantage + of taking so much labor from the insurgent cause and supplying the + places which otherwise must be filled with so many white men. So far as + tested, it is difficult to say they are not as good soldiers as any. No + servile insurrection or tendency to violence or cruelty has marked the + measures of emancipation and arming the blacks. These measures have been + much discussed in foreign countries, and, contemporary with such + discussion, the tone of public sentiment there is much improved. At home + the same measures have been fully discussed, supported, criticised, and + denounced, and the annual elections following are highly encouraging to + those whose official duty it is to bear the country through this great + trial. Thus we have the new reckoning. The crisis which threatened to + divide the friends of the Union is past. +</p> +<p> + Looking now to the present and future, and with reference to a + resumption of the national authority within the States wherein that + authority has been suspended, I have thought fit to issue a + proclamation, a copy of which is herewith transmitted.<a href="#note-10"><small>10</small></a> On examination + of this proclamation it will appear, as is believed, that nothing will + be attempted beyond what is amply justified by the Constitution. True, + the form of an oath is given, but no man is coerced to take it. The man + is only promised a pardon in case he voluntarily takes the oath. The + Constitution authorizes the Executive to grant or withhold the pardon at + his own absolute discretion, and this includes the power to grant on + terms, as is fully established by judicial and other authorities. +</p> +<p> + It is also proffered that if in any of the States named a State + government shall be in the mode prescribed set up, such government shall + be recognized and guaranteed by the United States, and that under it the + State shall, on the constitutional conditions, be protected against + invasion and domestic violence. The constitutional obligation of the + United States to guarantee to every State in the Union a republican form + of government and to protect the State in the cases stated is explicit + and full. But why tender the benefits of this provision only to + a State government set up in this particular way? This section of the + Constitution contemplates a case wherein the element within a State + favorable to republican government in the Union may be too feeble for + an opposite and hostile element external to or even within the State, + and such are precisely the cases with which we are now dealing. +</p> +<p> + An attempt to guarantee and protect a revived State government, + constructed in whole or in preponderating part from the very element + against whose hostility and violence it is to be protected, is simply + absurd. There must be a test by which to separate the opposing elements, + so as to build only from the sound; and that test is a sufficiently + liberal one which accepts as sound whoever will make a sworn recantation + of his former unsoundness. +</p> +<p> + But if it be proper to require as a test of admission to the political + body an oath of allegiance to the Constitution of the United States and + to the Union under it, why also to the laws and proclamations in regard + to slavery? Those laws and proclamations were enacted and put forth for + the purpose of aiding in the suppression of the rebellion. To give them + their fullest effect there had to be a pledge for their maintenance. In + my judgment, they have aided and will further aid the cause for which + they were intended. To now abandon them would be not only to relinquish + a lever of power, but would also be a cruel and an astounding breach + of faith. I may add at this point that while I remain in my present + position I shall not attempt to retract or modify the emancipation + proclamation, nor shall I return to slavery any person who is free + by the terms of that proclamation or by any of the acts of Congress. + For these and other reasons it is thought best that support of these + measures shall be included in the oath, and it is believed the Executive + may lawfully claim it in return for pardon and restoration of forfeited + rights, which he has clear constitutional power to withhold altogether + or grant upon the terms which he shall deem wisest for the public + interest. It should be observed also that this part of the oath is + subject to the modifying and abrogating power of legislation and supreme + judicial decision. +</p> +<p> + The proposed acquiescence of the National Executive in any reasonable + temporary State arrangement for the freed people is made with the view + of possibly modifying the confusion and destitution which must at best + attend all classes by a total revolution of labor throughout whole + States. It is hoped that the already deeply afflicted people in those + States may be somewhat more ready to give up the cause of their + affliction if to this extent this vital matter be left to themselves, + while no power of the National Executive to prevent an abuse is abridged + by the proposition. +</p> +<p> + The suggestion in the proclamation as to maintaining the political + framework of the States on what is called reconstruction is made in the + hope that it may do good without danger of harm. It will save labor and + avoid great confusion. +</p> +<p> + But why any proclamation now upon this subject? This question is beset + with the conflicting views that the step might be delayed too long or be + taken too soon. In some States the elements for resumption seem ready + for action, but remain inactive apparently for want of a rallying + point—a plan of action. Why shall A adopt the plan of B rather than B + that of A? And if A and B should agree, how can they know but that the + General Government here will reject their plan? By the proclamation a + plan is presented which may be accepted by them as a rallying point, and + which they are assured in advance will not be rejected here. This may + bring them to act sooner than they otherwise would. +</p> +<p> + The objections to a premature presentation of a plan by the National + Executive consist in the danger of committals on points which could be + more safely left to further developments. Care has been taken to so + shape the document as to avoid embarrassments from this source. Saying + that on certain terms certain classes will be pardoned with rights + restored, it is not said that other classes or other terms will never be + included. Saying that reconstruction will be accepted if presented in + a specified way, it is not said it will never be accepted in any other + way. +</p> +<p> + The movements by State action for emancipation in several of the States + not included in the emancipation proclamation are matters of profound + gratulation. And while I do not repeat in detail what I have heretofore + so earnestly urged upon this subject, my general views and feelings + remain unchanged; and I trust that Congress will omit no fair + opportunity of aiding these important steps to a great consummation. +</p> +<p> + In the midst of other cares, however important, we must not lose sight + of the fact that the war power is still our main reliance. To that power + alone can we look yet for a time to give confidence to the people in the + contested regions that the insurgent power will not again overrun them. + Until that confidence shall be established little can be done anywhere + for what is called reconstruction. Hence our chiefest care must still be + directed to the Army and Navy, who have thus far borne their harder part + so nobly and well; and it may be esteemed fortunate that in giving the + greatest efficiency to these indispensable arms we do also honorably + recognize the gallant men, from commander to sentinel, who compose them, + and to whom more than to others the world must stand indebted for the + home of freedom disenthralled, regenerated, enlarged, and perpetuated. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0028"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + SPECIAL MESSAGES. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>December 8, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend + that Captain John Rodgers, United States Navy, receive a vote of thanks + from Congress for the eminent skill and gallantry exhibited by him in + the engagement with the rebel armed ironclad steamer <i>Fingal</i>, alias + <i>Atlanta</i>, whilst in command of the United States ironclad steamer + <i>Weehawken</i>, which led to her capture on the 17th June, 1863, and also + for the zeal, bravery, and general good conduct shown by this officer on + many occasions. +</p> +<p> + This recommendation is specially made in order to comply with the + requirements of the ninth section of the aforesaid act, which is in the + following words, viz: +</p> +<p> + That any line officer of the Navy or Marine Corps may be advanced one + grade if upon recommendation of the President by name he receives the + thanks of Congress for highly distinguished conduct in conflict with the + enemy or for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>December 8, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + Congress, on my recommendation, passed a resolution, approved 7th + February, 1863, tendering its thanks to Commander D.D. Porter "for the + bravery and skill displayed in the attack on the post of Arkansas on the + 10th January, 1863," and in consideration of those services, together + with his efficient labors and vigilance subsequently displayed in + thwarting the efforts of the rebels to obstruct the Mississippi and its + tributaries and the important part rendered by the squadron under his + command, which led to the surrender of Vicksburg. +</p> +<p> + I do therefore, in conformity to the seventh section of the act approved + 16th July, 1862, nominate Commander D.D. Porter to be a rear-admiral in + the Navy on the active list from the 4th July, 1863, to fill an existing + vacancy. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 10, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report, dated the 9th instant, with the + accompanying papers, received from the Secretary of State in compliance + with the requirements of the sixteenth and eighteenth sections of the + act entitled "An act to regulate the diplomatic and consular systems of + the United States," approved August 18, 1856. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, December, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, a treaty + concluded at Le Roy, Kans., on the 29th day of August, 1863, between + William P. Dole, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and William G. Coffin, + superintendent of Indian affairs of the southern superintendency, + commissioners on the part of the United States, and the chiefs and + headmen of the Great and Little Osage tribe of Indians of the State of + Kansas. +</p> +<p> + A communication from the Secretary of the Interior, dated the 12th + instant, accompanies the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, December, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, a treaty + concluded on the 7th day of October, 1863, at Conejos, Colorado + Territory, between John Evans, governor and <i>ex officio</i> superintendent + of Indian affairs of said Territory; Michael Steck, superintendent of + Indian affairs for the Territory of New Mexico; Simeon Whitely and + Lafayette Head, Indian agents, commissioners on the part of the United + States, and the chiefs and warriors of the Tabeguache band of Utah + Indians. +</p> +<p> + I also transmit a report of the Secretary of the Interior of the 12th + instant, submitting the treaty; an extract from the last annual report + of Governor Evans, of Colorado Territory, relating to its negotiation, + and a map upon which is delineated the boundaries of the country ceded + by the Indians and that retained for their own use. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, December, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, a treaty + concluded at the city of Washington on the 6th day of April, 1863, + between John P. Usher, commissioner on the part of the United States, + and the chiefs and headmen of the Comanche, Kiowa, and Apache tribes of + Indians, duly authorized thereto. +</p> +<p> + A letter of the Secretary of the Interior of the 12th instant + accompanies the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, December, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, a treaty + concluded at the Sac and Fox Agency, in Kansas, on the 2d day of + September, 1863, between William P. Dole, Commissioner of Indian + Affairs, commissioner on the part of the United States, and the New York + Indians, represented by duly authorized members of the bands of said + tribe. +</p> +<p> + A letter of the Secretary of the Interior of the 12th instant + accompanies the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, December, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, a treaty + concluded at the Sac and Fox Agency, in Kansas, on the 3d day of + September, 1863, between William P. Dole, Commissioner of Indian + Affairs, and William G. Coffin, superintendent of Indian affairs for the + southern superintendency, on the part of the United States, and the + Creek Nation of Indians, represented by its chiefs. +</p> +<p> + A letter from the Secretary of the Interior, dated the 12th instant, + accompanies the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, December, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, a treaty + concluded at the Sac and Fox Agency, in Kansas, on the 4th day of + September, 1863, between William P. Dole, Commissioner of Indian + Affairs, and Henry W. Martin, agent for the Sacs and Foxes, + commissioners on the part of the United States, and the united tribes of + Sac and Fox Indians of the Mississippi. +</p> +<p> + A letter from the Secretary of the Interior, dated the 12th instant, + accompanies the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 15, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 11th of March last, + requesting certain information touching persons in the service of this + Government, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State, to whom the + resolution was referred. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 17, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for consideration with a view to its + ratification, a convention between the United States and Her Britannic + Majesty for the final adjustment of the claims of the Hudsons Bay and + Pugets Sound Agricultural Companies, signed in this city on the 1st day + of July last (1863). +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + DECEMBER 17, 1863. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + Herewith I lay before you a letter addressed to myself by a committee of + gentlemen representing the freedmen's aid societies in Boston, New York, + Philadelphia, and Cincinnati. The subject of the letter, as indicated + above, is one of great magnitude and importance, and one which these + gentlemen, of known ability and high character, seem to have considered + with great attention and care. Not having the time to form a mature + judgment of my own as to whether the plan they suggest is the best, I + submit the whole subject to Congress, deeming that their attention + thereto is almost imperatively demanded. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 22, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for its consideration with a view to + ratification, two conventions between the United States and His Belgian + Majesty, signed at Brussels on the 20th May and the 20th of July last, + respectively, and both relating to the extinguishment of the Scheldt + dues, etc. A copy of so much of the correspondence between the Secretary + of State and Mr. Sanford, the minister resident of the United States at + Brussels, on the subject of the conventions as is necessary to a full + understanding of it is also herewith transmitted. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 23, 1863</i> +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of the report to the Secretary of State of + the commissioners on the part of the United States under the convention + with Peru of the 12th of January last, on the subject of claims. It will + be noticed that two claims of Peruvian citizens on this Government have + been allowed. An appropriation for the discharge of the obligations of + the United States in these cases is requested. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + JANUARY 5, 1864. +</p> +<p> + <i>Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + By a joint resolution of your honorable bodies approved December 23, + 1863, the paying of bounties to veteran volunteers, as now practiced by + the War Department, is, to the extent of $300 in each case, prohibited + after this 5th day of the present month. I transmit for your + consideration a communication from the Secretary of War, accompanied by + one from the Provost-Marshal-General to him, both relating to the + subject above mentioned. I earnestly recommend that the law be so + modified as to allow bounties to be paid as they now are, at least until + the ensuing 1st day of February. +</p> +<p> + I am not without anxiety lest I appear to be importunate in thus + recalling your attention to a subject upon which you have so recently + acted, and nothing but a deep conviction that the public interest + demands it could induce me to incur the hazard of being misunderstood on + this point. The Executive approval was given by me to the resolution + mentioned, and it is now by a closer attention and a fuller knowledge of + facts that I feel constrained to recommend a reconsideration of the + subject. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 7</i> +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of the decree of the court of the United + States for the southern district of New York, awarding the sum of + $17,150.66 for the illegal capture of the British schooner <i>Glen</i>, + and request that an appropriation of that amount may be made as an + indemnification to the parties interested. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, January, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon + the following-described treaties, viz: +</p> +<p> + A treaty made at Fort Bridger, Utah Territory, on the 2d day of July, + 1863, between the United States and the chiefs, principal men, and + warriors of the eastern bands of the Shoshonee Nation of Indians. +</p> +<p> + A treaty made at Box Elder, Utah Territory, on the 30th day of July, + 1863, between the United States and the chiefs and warriors of the + northwestern bands of the Shoshonee Nation of Indians. +</p> +<p> + A treaty made at Ruby Valley, Nevada Territory, on the 1st day of + October, 1863, between the United States and the chiefs, principal men, + and warriors of the Shoshonee Nation of Indians. +</p> +<p> + A treaty made at Tuilla Valley, Utah Territory, on the 12th day of + October, 1863, between the United States and the chiefs, principal men, + and warriors of the Goship bands of Shoshonee Indians. +</p> +<p> + A treaty made at Soda Springs, in Idaho Territory, on the 14th day of + October, 1863, between the United States and the chiefs of the mixed + bands of Bannacks and Shoshonees, occupying the valley of the Shoshonee + River. +</p> +<p> + A letter of the Secretary of the Interior of the 5th instant, a copy of + a report of the 30th ultimo, from the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, a + copy of a communication from Governor Doty, superintendent of Indian + Affairs, Utah Territory, dated November 10, 1863, relating to the + Indians parties to the several treaties herein named, and a map, + furnished by that gentleman, are herewith transmitted. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, January, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, + a treaty made at the Old Crossing of Red Lake River, in the State of + Minnesota, on the 2d day of October, 1863, between Alexander Ramsey and + Ashley C. Morrill, commissioners on the part of the United States, and + the chiefs, headmen, and warriors of the Red Lake and Pembina bands of + Chippewa Indians. +</p> +<p> + A letter of the Secretary of the Interior of the 8th instant, together + with a communication from the Commissioner of Indian Affairs of the 5th + instant and copies of Mr. Ramsey's report and journal, relating to the + treaty, and a map showing the territory ceded, are herewith transmitted. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>January 12, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In accordance with the request of the Senate conveyed in their + resolution of the 16th of December, 1863, desiring any information in my + possession relative to the alleged exceptional treatment of Kansas + troops when captured by those in rebellion, I have the honor to transmit + a communication from the Secretary of War, accompanied by reports from + the General in Chief of the Army and the Commissary-General of Prisoners + relative to the subject-matter of the resolution. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + JANUARY 20, 1864. +</p> +<p> + <i>Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In accordance with a letter addressed by the Secretary of State, with my + approval, to the Hon. Joseph A. Wright, of Indiana, that patriotic and + distinguished gentleman repaired to Europe and attended the + International Agricultural Exhibition, held at Hamburg last year, and + has since his return made a report to me, which, it is believed, can not + fail to be of general interest, and especially so to the agricultural + community. I transmit for your consideration copies of the letters and + report. While it appears by the letter that no reimbursement of expenses + or compensation was promised him, I submit whether reasonable allowance + should not be made him for them. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 21, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of yesterday, respecting + the recent destruction by fire of the Church of the CompañÃa at + Santiago, Chile, and the efforts of citizens of the United States to + rescue the victims of the conflagration, I transmit a report from the + Secretary of State, with the papers accompanying it. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 23, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate a copy of a dispatch of the 12th of April last, + addressed by Anson Burlingame, esq., the minister of the United States + to China, to the Secretary of State, relative to a modification of the + twenty-first article of a treaty between the United States and China of + the 18th of June, 1858, a printed copy of which is also herewith + transmitted. +</p> +<p> + These papers are submitted to the consideration of the Senate with a + view to their advice and consent being given to the modification of the + said twenty-first article, as explained in the said dispatch and its + accompaniments. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 29, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of State, in answer to + the resolution of the Senate respecting the correspondence with the + authorities of Great Britain in relation to the proposed pursuit of + hostile bands of the Sioux Indians into the Hudson Bay territories. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 4, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 26th ultimo, + requesting "a copy of all the correspondence between the authorities of + the United States and the rebel authorities on the exchange of + prisoners, and the different propositions connected with that subject," + I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of War and the papers + with which it is accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 5, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of yesterday on the subject of + a reciprocity treaty with the Sandwich Islands, I transmit a report from + the Secretary of State, to whom the resolution was referred. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 16, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a report from the Secretary of State, with the + accompanying papers, relative to the claim on this Government of the + owners of the French ship <i>La Manche</i>, and recommend an appropriation + for the satisfaction of the claim, pursuant to the award of the + arbitrators. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 16, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 8th + instant, requesting information touching the arrest of the United States + consul-general to the British North American Provinces, and certain + official communications respecting Canadian commerce, I transmit a + report from the Secretary of State and the documents by which it was + accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 22, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress the copy of a correspondence which has recently + taken place between Her Britannic Majesty's minister accredited to this + Government and the Secretary of State, in order that the expediency of + sanctioning the acceptance by the master of the American schooner + <i>Highlander</i> of a present of a watch which the lords of the committee of + Her Majesty's privy council for trade propose to present to him in + recognition of services rendered by him to the crew of the British + vessel <i>Pearl</i> may be taken into consideration. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>February, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I communicate to the Senate herewith, for its constitutional action + thereon, the articles of agreement and convention made and concluded at + the city of Washington on the 25th day of the present month by and + between William P. Dole, as commissioner on the part of the United + States, and the duly authorized delegates of the Swan Creek and Black + River Chippewas and the Munsees or Christian Indians in Kansas. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 29, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 26th + instant, I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of War, + relative to the reenlistment of veteran volunteers. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, February 29, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I nominate Ulysses S. Grant, now a major-general in the military + service, to be lieutenant-general in the Army of the United States. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>March, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report<a href="#note-11"><small>11</small></a> of the Secretary of the Interior of the + 11th instant, containing the information requested in Senate resolution + of the 29th ultimo. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>March 9, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 1st instant, + respecting the points of commencement of the Union Pacific Railroad, + on the one hundredth degree of west longitude, and of the branch road, + from the western boundary of Iowa to the said one hundredth degree of + longitude, I transmit the accompanying report from the Secretary of + the Interior, containing the information called for. +</p> +<p> + I deem it proper to add that on the 17th day of November last an + Executive order was made upon this subject and delivered to the + vice-president of the Union Pacific Railroad Company, which fixed the + point on the western boundary of the State of Iowa from which the + company should construct their branch road to the one hundredth degree + of west longitude, and declared it to be within the limits of the + township in Iowa opposite the town of Omaha, in Nebraska. Since then + the company has represented to me that upon actual surveys made it has + determined upon the precise point of departure of their said branch + road from the Missouri River, and located the same as described in the + accompanying report of the Secretary of the Interior, which point is + within the limits designated in the order of November last; and inasmuch + as that order is not of record in any of the Executive Departments, and + the company having desired a more definite one, I have made the order + of which a copy is herewith, and caused the same to be filed in the + Department of the Interior. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE OFFICE, <i>March 12, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In obedience to the resolution of the Senate of the 28th of January + last, I communicate herewith a report, with accompanying papers, from + the Secretary of the Interior, showing what portion of the + appropriations for the colonization of persons of African descent has + been expended and the several steps which have been taken for the + execution of the acts of Congress on that subject. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 14, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of a treaty between the United States and + Great Britain for the final settlement of the claims of the Hudsons Bay + and Pugets Sound Agricultural Companies, concluded on the 1st of July + last, the ratifications of which were exchanged in this city on the 5th + instant, and recommend an appropriation to carry into effect the first, + second, and third articles thereof. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 14, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + On the 25th day of November, 1862, a convention for the mutual + adjustment of claims pending between the United States and Ecuador was + signed at Quito by the plenipotentiaries of the contracting parties. + A copy is herewith inclosed. +</p> +<p> + This convention, already ratified by this Government, has been sent + to Quito for the customary exchange of ratifications, which it is not + doubted will be promptly effected. As the stipulations of the instrument + require that the commissioners who are to be appointed pursuant to its + provisions shall meet at Guayaquil within ninety days after such + exchange, it is desirable that the legislation necessary to give effect + to the convention on the part of the United States should anticipate the + usual course of proceeding. +</p> +<p> + I therefore invite the early attention of Congress to the subject. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, March 22, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, + a treaty made and concluded in Washington City on the 18th instant by + and between William P. Dole, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and the + Shawnee Indians, represented by their duly authorized delegates. +</p> +<p> + A report of the Secretary of the Interior and a communication of the + Commissioner of Indian Affairs accompany the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 24, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In reply to the resolution of the Senate of the 15th instant, in + relation to the establishment of monarchical governments in Central and + South America, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State, to whom + the subject was referred. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + MARCH 29, 1864. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + Mr. Charles B. Stuart, consulting engineer, appointed such by me upon + invitation of the governor of New York, according to a law of that + State, has made a report upon the proposed improvements to pass gunboats + from tide water to the northern and northwestern lakes, which report is + herewith respectfully submitted for your consideration. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, April 4, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, + a treaty concluded June 9, 1863, between C.H. Hale, superintendent of + Indian affairs, Charles Hutchins and S.D. Howe, Indian agents, on the + part of the United States, and the chiefs, headmen, and delegates of the + Nez Percé tribe of Indians in Washington Territory. +</p> +<p> + A report of the Secretary of the Interior of the 1st instant, with + a letter from the Commissioner of Indian Affairs of the 2d ultimo, + proposing amendments to the treaty, together with a report of + Superintendent Hale on the subject and a synopsis of the proceedings of + the council held with the Nez Percé Indians, are herewith transmitted + for the consideration of the Senate. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 7, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of War, in answer to + the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 4th instant, in + relation to Major N.H. McLean. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON CITY, <i>April 15, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, + a supplemental treaty negotiated on the 12th of April, 1864, with the + Red Lake and Pembina bands of Chippewa Indians. +</p> +<p> + A report of the Secretary of the Interior of this date and a + communication from the Acting Commissioner of Indian Affairs accompany + the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 23, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of War, in answer to the + resolutions passed by the Senate in executive session on the 14th and + 18th of April, 1864. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, April 22, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</p> +<p> + SIR: In answer to the Senate resolutions of April 14 and April 18, I + have the honor to state that the nominations of Colonel Hiram Burnham, + Colonel Edward M. McCook, Colonel Lewis A. Grant, and Colonel Edward + Hatch are not either of them made to fill any vacancy in the proper + sense of that term. They are not made to fill a command vacated by any + other general, but are independent nominations, and if confirmed the + officers will be assigned to such command as the General Commanding may + deem proper. But in consequence of the resignations of Generals Miller, + Boyle, and Beatty and the death of General Champlin, their confirmations + will be within the number of brigadiers allowed by law. +</p> +<p> + Your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 23, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of a note of the 19th instant from Lord + Lyons to the Secretary of State, on the subject of two British naval + officers who recently received medical treatment at the naval hospital + at Norfolk. The expediency of authorizing Surgeon Solomon Sharp to + accept the piece of plate to which the note refers, as an acknowledgment + of his services, is submitted to your consideration. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + APRIL 28, 1864. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In obedience to the resolution of your honorable body a copy of which + is herewith returned, I have the honor to make the following brief + statement, which is believed to contain the information sought. +</p> +<p> + Prior to and at the meeting of the present Congress Robert C. Schenck, + of Ohio, and Frank P. Blair, jr., of Missouri, members elect thereto, by + and with the consent of the Senate held commissions from the Executive + as major-generals in the Volunteer Army. General Schenck tendered the + resignation of his said commission and took his seat in the House of + Representatives at the assembling thereof upon the distinct verbal + understanding with the Secretary of War and the Executive that he might + at any time during the session, at his own pleasure, withdraw said + resignation and return to the field. General Blair was, by temporary + assignment of General Sherman, in command of a corps through the battles + in front of Chattanooga and in the march to the relief of Knoxville, + which occurred in the latter days of November and early days of December + last, and of course was not present at the assembling of Congress. When + he subsequently arrived here, he sought and was allowed by the Secretary + of War and the Executive the same conditions and promise as allowed and + made to General Schenck. General Schenck has not applied to withdraw + his resignation, but when General Grant was made lieutenant-general, + producing some change of commanders, General Blair sought to be assigned + to the command of a corps. This was made known to Generals Grant and + Sherman and assented to by them, and the particular corps for him + designated. This was all arranged and understood, as now remembered, + so much as a month ago, but the formal withdrawal of General Blair's + resignation and making the order assigning him to the command of a corps + were not consummated at the War Department until last week, perhaps on + the 23d of April instant. As a summary of the whole, it may be stated + that General Blair holds no military commission or appointment other + than as herein stated, and that it is believed he is now acting as a + major-general upon the assumed validity of the commission herein stated, + in connection with the facts herein stated, and not otherwise. There + are some letters, notes, telegrams, orders, entries, and perhaps other + documents in connection with this subject, which it is believed would + throw no additional light upon it, but which will be cheerfully + furnished if desired. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + APRIL 28, 1864. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Honorable the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I have the honor to transmit herewith an address to the President of the + United States, and through him to both Houses of Congress, on the + condition and wants of the people of east Tennessee, and asking their + attention to the necessity of some action on the part of the Government + for their relief, and which address is presented by a committee of an + organization called "The East Tennessee Relief Association." +</p> +<p> + Deeply commiserating the condition of these most loyal and suffering + people, I am unprepared to make any specific recommendation for their + relief. The military is doing and will continue to do the best for them + within its power. Their address represents that the construction of + direct railroad communication between Knoxville and Cincinnati by way of + central Kentucky would be of great consequence in the present emergency. + It may be remembered that in the annual message of December, 1861, such + railroad construction was recommended. I now add that, with the hearty + concurrence of Congress, I would yet be pleased to construct a road, + both for the relief of these people and for its continuing military + importance. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 29, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 27th instant, + requesting information in regard to the condition of affairs in the + Territory of Nevada, I transmit a copy of a letter of the 25th of last + month addressed to the Secretary of State by James W. Nye, the governor + of that Territory. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + MAY 2, 1864. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Honorable the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the request contained in your resolution of the 29th + ultimo, a copy of which resolution is herewith returned, I have the + honor to transmit the following: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, November 2, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + Hon. MONTGOMERY BLAIR. +</p> +<p> + MY DEAR SIR: Some days ago I understood you to say that your brother, + General Frank Blair, desired to be guided by my wishes as to whether he + will occupy his seat in Congress or remain in the field. My wish, then, + is compounded of what I believe will be best for the country and best + for him, and it is that he will come here, put his military commission + in my hands, take his seat, go into caucus with our friends, abide the + nominations, help elect the nominees, and thus aid to organize a House + of Representatives which will really support the Government in the war. + If the result shall be the election of himself as Speaker, let him serve + in that position; if not, let him retake his commission and return to + the Army. For the country, this will heal a dangerous schism. For him, + it will relieve from a dangerous position. By a misunderstanding, as I + think, he is in danger of being permanently separated from those with + whom only he can ever have a real sympathy—the sincere opponents of + slavery. It will be a mistake if he shall allow the provocations offered + him by insincere timeservers to drive him from the house of his own + building. He is young yet. He has abundant talents, quite enough to + occupy all his time without devoting any to temper. He is rising in + military skill and usefulness. His recent appointment to the command of + a corps by one so competent to judge as General Sherman proves this. In + that line he can serve both the country and himself more profitably than + he could as a Member of Congress upon the floor. The foregoing is what + I would say if Frank Blair were my brother instead of yours. +</p> +<p> + Yours, truly, +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS,<br> + <i>Baltimore, Md., November 13, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> +Hon. E.M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> + SIR: Inclosed I forward to the President my resignation, to take effect + on the 5th of December. +</p> +<p> + I respectfully request, however, that I may be relieved from my command + at an earlier day, say by the 20th instant, or as soon thereafter as + some officer can be ordered to succeed me. While I desire to derange the + plans or hurry the action of the Department as little as possible, it + will be a great convenience to me to secure some little time before the + session of Congress for a necessary journey and for some preparations + for myself and family in view of my approaching change of residence + and occupation. I could also spend two or three days very profitably, + I think, to the service of my successor after his arrival here. +</p> +<p> + I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> +ROBT. C. SCHENCK,<br> + <i>Major-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +HEADQUARTERS MIDDLE DEPARTMENT, EIGHTH ARMY CORPS,<br> + <i>Baltimore, Md., November 13, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</p> +<p> + SIR: Having concluded to accept the place of Member of Congress in + the House of Representatives, to which I was elected in October, 1862, + I hereby tender the resignation of my commission as a major-general of + United States Volunteers, to take effect on the 5th day of December + next. +</p> +<p> + I shall leave the military service with much reluctance and a sacrifice + of personal feelings and desires, and only consent to do so in the hope + that in another capacity I may be able to do some effective service in + the cause of my country and Government in this time of peculiar trial. +</p> +<p> + I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> +ROBT. C. SCHENCK,<br> + <i>Major-General</i>. +</p> +<center> + [Indorsement on the foregoing letter.] +</center> +<p> + The resignation of General Schenck is accepted, and he is authorized to + turn over his command to Brigadier-General Lockwood at any time. +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, November 21, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> +Major-General ROBERT C. SCHENCK,<br> + <i>United States Volunteers, Commanding Middle Department, Baltimore, Md.</i> +</p> +<p> + SIR: Your resignation has been accepted by the President of the United + States, to take effect the 5th day of December, 1863. +</p> +<p> + I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> +E.D. TOWNSEND,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 1, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> +The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES,<br> + <i>Washington City, D.C.</i>: +</p> +<p> + I hereby tender my resignation as a major-general of the United States + Volunteers. +</p> +<p> + Respectfully, +</p> +<p class="r"> +FRANK P. BLAIR,<br> + <i>Major-General, United States Volunteers</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + JANUARY 12, 1864. +</p> +<p> + Accepted, by order of the President. +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, January 12, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> +Major-General FRANCIS P. BLAIR,<br> + <i>U.S. Volunteers</i>. +</p> +<p> + (Care of Hon. M. Blair, Washington, D.C.) +</p> +<p> + SIR: Your resignation has been accepted by the President of the United + States, to take effect this day. +</p> +<p> + I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> +JAS. A. HARDIE,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [Telegram.] +</center> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., March 15, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> +Lieutenant-General GRANT,<br> + <i>Nashville, Tenn.</i>: +</p> +<p> + General McPherson having been assigned to the command of a department, + could not General Frank Blair, without difficulty or detriment to the + service, be assigned to command the corps he commanded a while last + autumn? +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [Telegram.] +</center> +<p class="r"> + NASHVILLE, TENN., <i>March 16, 1864—10 a.m.</i> +</p> +<p> + His Excellency the PRESIDENT: +</p> +<p> + General Logan commands the corps referred to in your dispatch. I will + see General Sherman in a few days and consult him about the transfer, + and answer. +</p> +<p class="r"> +U.S. GRANT,<br> + <i>Lieutenant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [Telegram.] +</center> +<p class="r"> + NASHVILLE, TENN., <i>March 17, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> +His Excellency A. LINCOLN,<br> + <i>President of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + General Sherman is here. He consents to the transfer of General Logan to + the Seventeenth Corps and the appointment of General F.P. Blair to the + Fifteenth Corps. +</p> +<p class="r"> +U.S. GRANT,<br> + <i>Lieutenant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [Telegram.] +</center> +<p class="r"> + HUNTSVILLE, ALA., <i>March 26, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> +His Excellency A. LINCOLN,<br> + <i>President of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I understand by the papers that it is contemplated to make a change + of commanders of the Fifteenth and Seventeenth Army Corps, so as to + transfer me to the Seventeenth. I hope this will not be done. I fully + understand the organization of the Fifteenth Corps now, of which I have + labored to complete the organization this winter. Earnestly hope that + the change may not be made. +</p> +<p class="r"> +JOHN A. LOGAN,<br> + <i>Major-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [Telegram.] +</center> +<p class="r"> +OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,<br> + <i>War Department</i>. +</p> +<p> + The following telegram received at Washington 9 a.m. March 31, 1864, + from Culpeper Court-House, 11.30 p.m., dated March 30, 1864: +</p> +<p class="q"> +"Major-General W.T. SHERMAN,<br> + "<i>Nashville</i>: +</p> +<p class="q"> + "General F.P. Blair will be assigned to the Seventeenth (17th) Corps, + and not the Fifteenth (15th). Assign General Joseph Hooker, subject to + the approval of the President, to any other corps command you may have, + and break up the anomaly of one general commanding two (2) corps. +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> +"U.S. GRANT,<br> + "<i>Lieutenant-General, Commanding</i>." +</p> +<p> + From a long dispatch of April 2, 1864, from General Sherman to General + Grant, presenting his plan for disposing the forces under his command, + the following extracts, being the only parts pertinent to the subject + now under consideration, are taken: +</p> +<p class="q"> + After a full consultation with all my army commanders, I have settled + down to the following conclusions, to which I would like to have the + President's consent before I make the orders: +</p> +<hr> +<p class="q"> + Third. General McPherson. * * * His [three] corps to be commanded by + Major-Generals Logan, Blair, and Dodge. * * * +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,<br> + <i>War Department</i>. +</p> +<p> + The following telegram received at Washington 3 p.m. April 10, 1864, + from Culpeper Court-House, Va., 10 p.m., dated April 9, 1864: +</p> +<p class="q"> +"Major-General H.W. HALLECK,<br> + "<i>Chief of Staff</i>: +</p> +<p class="q"> + "Will you please ascertain if General F.P. Blair is to be sent to + General Sherman. If not, an army-corps commander will have to be named + for the Fifteenth Corps. +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "U.S. GRANT, <i>Lieutenant-General</i>." +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>April 20, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + The PRESIDENT: +</p> +<p> + You will do me a great favor by giving the order assigning me to the + command of the Seventeenth Army Corps immediately, as I desire to leave + Washington the next Saturday to join the command. I also request the + assignment of Captain Andrew J. Alexander, of Third Regiment United + States Cavalry, as adjutant-general of the Seventeenth Corps, with the + rank of lieutenant-colonel. The present adjutant, or rather the former + adjutant, Colonel Clark, has, I understand, been retained by General + McPherson as adjutant-general of the department, and the place of + adjutant-general of the corps is necessarily vacant. +</p> +<p> + I also request the appointment of George A. Maguire, formerly captain + Thirty-first Missouri Volunteer Infantry, as major and aid-de-camp, and + Lieutenant Logan Tompkins, Twenty-first Missouri Volunteer Infantry, as + captain and aid-de-camp on my staff. +</p> +<p> + Respectfully, +</p> +<p class="r"> + FRANK P. BLAIR. +</p> +<center> + [Indorsements.] +</center> +<p class="r"> + APRIL 21, 1864. +</p> +<p> + HONORABLE SECRETARY OF WAR: +</p> +<p> + Please have General Halleck make the proper order in this case. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + Referred to General Halleck, chief of staff. +</p> +<p class="r"> + EDWIN M. STANTON, <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, April 23, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + HONORABLE SECRETARY OF WAR. +</p> +<p> + MY DEAR SIR: According to our understanding with Major-General Frank P. + Blair at the time he took his seat in Congress last winter, he now asks + to withdraw his resignation as major-general, then tendered, and be sent + to the field. Let this be done. Let the order sending him be such as + shown me to-day by the Adjutant-General, only dropping from it the names + of Maguire and Tompkins. +</p> +<p> + Yours, truly, +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<center> + [Indorsement.] +</center> +<p class="r"> + APRIL 23, 1864. +</p> +<p> + Referred to the Adjutant-General. +</p> +<p class="r"> + EDWIN M. STANTON, <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON CITY, D.C., <i>April 23, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> +Hon. E.M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>: +</p> +<p> + I respectfully request to withdraw my resignation as major-general of + the United States Volunteers, tendered on the 12th day of January, 1864. +</p> +<p> + Respectfully, +</p> +<p class="r"> + FRANK P. BLAIR. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 178. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, April 23, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + I. Major-General F.P. Blair, jr., is assigned to the command of the + Seventeenth Army Corps. +</p> +<p> + II. Captain Andrew J. Alexander, Third Regiment United States Cavalry, + is assigned as assistant adjutant-general of the Seventeenth Army Corps, + with the rank of lieutenant-colonel, under the tenth section of the act + approved July 17, 1862. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President of the United States: +</p> +<p class="r"> +E.D. TOWNSEND,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> + The foregoing constitutes all sought by the resolution so far as is + remembered or has been found upon diligent search. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + MAY 7, 1864. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States:</i> +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the request contained in a resolution of the Senate + dated April 30, 1864, I herewith transmit to your honorable body a copy + of the opinion by the Attorney-General on the rights of colored persons + in the Army or volunteer service of the United States, together with the + accompanying papers. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>May 12, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 9th instant, requesting + a copy of correspondence relative to a controversy between the Republics + of Chile and Bolivia, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State, + to whom the resolution was referred. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, May 14, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a report of the Secretary of the Interior of the + 14th instant, and accompanying papers, in answer to a resolution of the + Senate of the 14th ultimo, in the following words, viz: +</p> +<p class="q"> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the President of the United States be requested to + communicate to the Senate the reasons, if any exist, why the refugee + Indians in the State of Kansas are not returned to their homes. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, May 17, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, + a treaty concluded on the 7th instant in this city between William P. + Dole, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and Clark W. Thompson, + superintendent of Indian affairs, northern superintendency, on the part + of the United States, and the chief Hole-in-the-day and Mis-qua-dace for + and on behalf of the Chippewas of the Mississippi, and the Pillager and + Lake Winnibigoshish bands of Chippewa Indians in Minnesota. +</p> +<p> + A communication from the Secretary of the Interior of the 17th instant, + with a statement and copies of reports of the Commissioner of Indian + Affairs of the 12th and 17th instant, accompany the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>May 24, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I recommend Lieutenant-Commander Francis A. Roe for advancement in his + grade five numbers, to take rank next after Lieutenant-Commander John H. + Upshur, for distinguished conduct in battle in command of the United + States steamer <i>Sassacus</i> in her attack on and attempt to run down the + rebel ironclad ram <i>Albemarle</i> on the 5th of May, 1864. +</p> +<p> + I also recommend that First Assistant Engineer James M. Hobby be + advanced thirty numbers in his grade for distinguished conduct in + battle and extraordinary heroism, as mentioned in the report of + Lieutenant-Commander Francis A. Roe, commanding the United States + steamer <i>Sassacus</i> in her action with the rebel ram <i>Albemarle</i> on + the 5th May, 1864. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>May 24, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the House of Representatives of yesterday + on the subject of the joint resolution of the 4th of last month relative + to Mexico, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State, to whom the + resolution was referred. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>May 28, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In reply to a resolution of the Senate of the 25th instant, relating to + Mexican affairs, I transmit a partial report from the Secretary of State + of this date, with the papers therein mentioned. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>May 31, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, in answer to their resolution of the 28th + instant, a report<a href="#note-12"><small>12</small></a> from the Secretary of State, with accompanying + documents. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>June 8, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I have the honor to submit, for the consideration of Congress, a letter + and inclosure<a href="#note-13"><small>13</small></a> from the Secretary of War, with my concurrence in the + recommendation therein made. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>June 13, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 4th of March, + 1864, I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of War in the case + of William Yokum, with accompanying papers. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>June 13, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith, for consideration with a view to ratification, a + convention between the United States of America and the United Colombian + States, signed by the plenipotentiaries of the contracting powers on the + 10th February last, providing for a revival of the joint commission on + claims under the convention of 10th September, 1857, with New Granada. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>June 18, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In further answer to the Senate's resolution of the 28th ultimo, + requesting to be informed whether the President "has, and when, + authorized a person alleged to have committed a crime against Spain or + any of its dependencies to be delivered up to officers of that + Government, and whether such delivery was had, and, if so, under what + authority of law or of treaty it was done," I transmit a copy of a + dispatch of the 10th instant to the Secretary of State from the acting + consul of the United States at Havana. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>June 21, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith communicate to the Senate, for its constitutional action + thereon, the articles of agreement and convention made and concluded at + the city of Washington on the 15th instant between the United States and + the Delaware Indians of Kansas, referred to in the accompanying + communication of the present date from the Secretary of the Interior. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>Washington, June 24, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, + a treaty made and concluded at the city of Washington on the 11th day of + June, 1864, by and between William P. Dole, Commissioner of Indian + Affairs, and Hiram W. Farnsworth, United States Indian agent, + commissioners on the part of the United States, and the chiefs and + headmen of the Kansas tribe of Indians. +</p> +<p> + A communication of the Secretary of the Interior of the 18th instant, + with a copy of report of Commissioner of Indian Affairs of the 13th + instant, accompany the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>June 28, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 24th instant, + requesting information in regard to the alleged enlistment in foreign + countries of recruits for the military and naval service of the United + States, I transmit reports from the Secretaries of State, of War, and of + the Navy, respectively. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>June 28, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 16th of last + month, requesting information in regard to the maltreatment of + passengers and seamen on board ships plying between New York and + Aspinwall, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State, to whom + the resolution was referred. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>July 2, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 6th ultimo, requesting + information upon the subject of the African slave trade, I transmit a + report from the Secretary of State and the papers by which it was + accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0029"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + PROCLAMATIONS. +</h2> +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas in and by the Constitution of the United States it is provided + that the President "shall have power to grant reprieves and pardons for + offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment;" and +</p> +<p> + Whereas a rebellion now exists whereby the loyal State governments of + several States have for a long time been subverted, and many persons + have committed and are now guilty of treason against the United States; + and +</p> +<p> + Whereas, with reference to said rebellion and treason, laws have been + enacted by Congress declaring forfeitures and confiscation of property + and liberation of slaves, all upon terms and conditions therein stated, + and also declaring that the President was thereby authorized at any time + thereafter, by proclamation, to extend to persons who may have + participated in the existing rebellion in any State or part thereof + pardon and amnesty, with such exceptions and at such times and on such + conditions as he may deem expedient for the public welfare; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the Congressional declaration for limited and conditional pardon + accords with well-established judicial exposition of the pardoning + power; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas, with reference to said rebellion, the President of the United + States has issued several proclamations with provisions in regard to the + liberation of slaves; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas it is now desired by some persons heretofore engaged in said + rebellion to resume their allegiance to the United States and to + reinaugurate loyal State governments within and for their respective + States: +</p> +<p> + Therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do + proclaim, declare, and make known to all persons who have, directly or + by implication, participated in the existing rebellion, except as + hereinafter excepted, that a full pardon is hereby granted to them and + each of them, with restoration of all rights of property, except as to + slaves and in property cases where rights of third parties shall have + intervened, and upon the condition that every such person shall take and + subscribe an oath and thenceforward keep and maintain said oath + inviolate, and which oath shall be registered for permanent preservation + and shall be of the tenor and effect following, to wit: +</p> +<p> + I, —— ——, do solemnly swear, in presence of Almighty God, that I + will henceforth faithfully support, protect, and defend the Constitution + of the United States and the Union of the States thereunder; and that I + will in like manner abide by and faithfully support all acts of Congress + passed during the existing rebellion with reference to slaves, so long + and so far as not repealed, modified, or held void by Congress or by + decision of the Supreme Court; and that I will in like manner abide by + and faithfully support all proclamations of the President made during + the existing rebellion having reference to slaves, so long and so far as + not modified or declared void by decision of the Supreme Court. So help + me God. +</p> +<p> + The persons excepted from the benefits of the foregoing provisions are + all who are or shall have been civil or diplomatic officers or agents of + the so-called Confederate Government; all who have left judicial + stations under the United States to aid the rebellion; all who are or + shall have been military or naval officers of said so-called Confederate + Government above the rank of colonel in the army or of lieutenant in the + navy; all who left seats in the United States Congress to aid the + rebellion; all who resigned commissions in the Army or Navy of the + United States and afterwards aided the rebellion; and all who have + engaged in any way in treating colored persons, or white persons in + charge of such, otherwise than lawfully as prisoners of war, and which + persons may have been found in the United States service as soldiers, + seamen, or in any other capacity. +</p> +<p> + And I do further proclaim, declare, and make known that whenever, in any + of the States of Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, + Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina, a number + of persons, not less than one-tenth in number of the votes cast in such + State at the Presidential election of the year A.D. 1860, each having + taken the oath aforesaid, and not having since violated it, and being a + qualified voter by the election law of the State existing immediately + before the so-called act of secession, and excluding all others, shall + reestablish a State government which shall be republican and in nowise + contravening said oath, such shall be recognized as the true government + of the State, and the State shall receive thereunder the benefits of the + constitutional provision which declares that "the United States shall + guarantee to every State in this Union a republican form of government + and shall protect each of them against invasion, and, on application of + the legislature, or the executive (when the legislature can not be + convened), against domestic violence." +</p> +<p> + And I do further proclaim, declare, and make known that any provision + which may be adopted by such State government in relation to the freed + people of such State which shall recognize and declare their permanent + freedom, provide for their education, and which may yet be consistent as + a temporary arrangement with their present condition as a laboring, + landless, and homeless class, will not be objected to by the National + Executive. +</p> +<p> + And it is suggested as not improper that in constructing a loyal State + government in any State the name of the State, the boundary, the + subdivisions, the constitution, and the general code of laws as before + the rebellion be maintained, subject only to the modifications made + necessary by the conditions hereinbefore stated, and such others, if + any, not contravening said conditions and which may be deemed expedient + by those framing the new State government. +</p> +<p> + To avoid misunderstanding, it may be proper to say that this + proclamation, so far as it relates to State governments, has no + reference to States wherein loyal State governments have all the while + been maintained. And for the same reason it may be proper to further say + that whether members sent to Congress from any State shall be admitted + to seats constitutionally rests exclusively with the respective Houses, + and not to any extent with the Executive. And, still further, that this + proclamation is intended to present the people of the States wherein the + national authority has been suspended and loyal State governments have + been subverted a mode in and by which the national authority and loyal + State governments may be reestablished within said States or in any of + them; and while the mode presented is the best the Executive can + suggest, with his present impressions, it must not be understood that no + other possible mode would be acceptable. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Given under my hand at the city of Washington, the 8th day of December, + A.D. 1863, and of the Independence of the United States of America the + eighty-eighth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas by an act of the Congress of the United States of the 24th of + May, 1828, entitled "An act in addition to an act entitled 'An act + concerning discriminating duties of tonnage and impost' and to equalize + the duties on Prussian vessels and their cargoes,' 'it is provided that + upon satisfactory evidence being given to the President of the United + States by the government of any foreign nation that no discriminating + duties of tonnage or impost are imposed or levied in the ports of the + said nation upon vessels wholly belonging to citizens of the United + States or upon the produce, manufactures, or merchandise imported in the + same from the United States or from any foreign country, the President + is thereby authorized to issue his proclamation declaring that the + foreign discriminating duties of tonnage and impost within the United + States are and shall be suspended and discontinued so far as respects + the vessels of the said foreign nation and the produce, manufactures, or + merchandise imported into the United States in the same from the said + foreign nation or from any other foreign country, the said suspension to + take effect from the time of such notification being given to the + President of the United States and to continue so long as the reciprocal + exemption of vessels belonging to citizens of the United States and + their cargoes, as aforesaid, shall be continued, and no longer; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas satisfactory evidence has lately been received by me through an + official communication of Señor Don Luis Molina, envoy extraordinary and + minister plenipotentiary of the Republic of Nicaragua, under date of the + 28th of November, 1863, that no other or higher duties of tonnage and + impost have been imposed or levied since the 2d day of August, 1838, in + the ports of Nicaragua upon vessels wholly belonging to citizens of the + United States and upon the produce, manufactures, or merchandise + imported in the same from the United States and from any foreign country + whatever than are levied on Nicaraguan ships and their cargoes in the + same ports under like circumstances: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States + of America, do hereby declare and proclaim that so much of the several + acts imposing discriminating duties of tonnage and impost within the + United States are and shall be suspended and discontinued so far as + respects the vessels of Nicaragua and the produce, manufactures, and + merchandise imported into the United States in the same from the + dominions of Nicaragua and from any other foreign country whatever, the + said suspension to take effect from the day above mentioned and to + continue thenceforward so long as the reciprocal exemption of the vessels + of the United States and the produce, manufactures, and merchandise + imported into the dominions of Nicaragua in the same, as aforesaid, shall + be continued on the part of the Government of Nicaragua. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Given under my hand at the city of Washington, the 16th day of December, + A.D. 1863, and the eighty-eighth of the Independence of the United + States. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas by my proclamation of the 19th of April, 1861, the ports of the + States of South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, + Louisiana, and Texas were, for reasons therein set forth, placed under + blockade; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the port of Brownsville, in the district of Brazos Santiago, in + the State of Texas, has since been blockaded, but as the blockade of + said port may now be safely relaxed with advantage to the interests of + commerce: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States, pursuant to the authority in me vested by the fifth + section of the act of Congress approved on the 13th of July, 1861, + entitled "An act further to provide for the collection of duties on + imports and for other purposes," do hereby declare that the blockade of + the said port of Brownsville shall so far cease and determine from and + after this date that commercial intercourse with said port, except as to + persons, things, and information hereinafter specified, may from this + date be carried on subject to the laws of the United States, to the + regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury, and, until the + rebellion shall have been suppressed, to such orders as may be + promulgated by the general commanding the department or by an officer + duly authorized by him and commanding at said port. This proclamation + does not authorize or allow the shipment or conveyance of persons in or + intending to enter the service of the insurgents, or of things or + information intended for their use or for their aid or comfort, nor, + except upon the permission of the Secretary of War or of some officer + duly authorized by him, of the following prohibited articles, namely: + Cannon, mortars, firearms, pistols, bombs, grenades, powder, saltpeter, + sulphur, balls, bullets, pikes, swords, boarding caps (always excepting + the quantity of the said articles which may be necessary for the defense + of the ship and those who compose the crew), saddles, bridles, + cartridge-bag material, percussion and other caps, clothing adapted for + uniforms, sailcloth of all kinds, hemp and cordage, intoxicating drinks + other than beer and light native wines. +</p> +<p> + To vessels clearing from foreign ports and destined to the port of + Brownsville, opened by this proclamation, licenses will be granted by + consuls of the United States upon satisfactory evidence that the vessel + so licensed will convey no persons, property, or information excepted or + prohibited above either to or from the said port, which licenses shall + be exhibited to the collector of said port immediately on arrival, and, + if required, to any officer in charge of the blockade; and on leaving + said port every vessel will be required to have a clearance from the + collector of the customs, according to law, showing no violation of the + conditions of the license. Any violations of said conditions will + involve the forfeiture and condemnation of the vessel and cargo and the + exclusion of all parties concerned from any further privilege of + entering the United States during the war for any purpose whatever. +</p> +<p> + In all respects except as herein specified the existing blockade remains + in full force and effect as hitherto established and maintained, nor is + it relaxed by this proclamation except in regard to the port to which + relaxation is or has been expressly applied. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 18th day of February, + A.D. 1864, and of the Independence of the United States the + eighty-eighth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas it has become necessary to define the cases in which insurgent + enemies are entitled to the benefits of the proclamation of the + President of the United States which was made on the 8th day of + December, 1863, and the manner in which they shall proceed to avail + themselves of those benefits; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the objects of that proclamation were to suppress the + insurrection and to restore the authority of the United States; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the amnesty therein proposed by the President was offered with + reference to these objects alone: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do + hereby proclaim and declare that the said proclamation does not apply to + the cases of persons who at the time when they seek to obtain the + benefits thereof by taking the oath thereby prescribed are in military, + naval, or civil confinement or custody, or under bonds, or on parole of + the civil, military, or naval authorities or agents of the United States + as prisoners of war, or persons detained for offenses of any kind, + either before or after conviction, and that, on the contrary, it does + apply only to those persons who, being yet at large and free from any + arrest, confinement, or duress, shall voluntarily come forward and take + the said oath with the purpose of restoring peace and establishing the + national authority. Prisoners excluded from the amnesty offered in the + said proclamation may apply to the President for clemency, like all + other offenders, and their applications will receive due consideration. +</p> +<p> + I do further declare and proclaim that the oath prescribed in the + aforesaid proclamation of the 8th of December, 1863, may be taken and + subscribed before any commissioned officer, civil, military, or naval, + in the service of the United States or any civil or military officer of + a State or Territory not in insurrection who by the laws thereof may be + qualified for administering oaths. All officers who receive such oaths + are hereby authorized to give certificates thereon to the persons + respectively by whom they are made, and such officers are hereby + required to transmit the original records of such oaths at as early a + day as may be convenient to the Department of State, where they will be + deposited and remain in the archives of the Government. The Secretary of + State will keep a register thereof, and will on application, in proper + cases, issue certificates of such records in the customary form of + official certificates. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, the 26th day of March, + A.D. 1864, and of the Independence of the United States the + eighty-eighth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h4> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h4> +<p> + <i>To all whom it may concern</i>: +</p> +<p> + An exequatur bearing date the 3d day of May, 1850, having been issued to + Charles Hunt, a citizen of the United States, recognizing him as consul + of Belgium for St. Louis, Mo., and declaring him free to exercise and + enjoy such functions, powers, and privileges as are allowed to the + consuls of the most favored nations in the United States, and the said + Hunt having sought to screen himself from his military duty to his + country in consequence of thus being invested with the consular + functions of a foreign power in the United States, it is deemed + advisable that the said Charles Hunt should no longer be permitted to + continue in the exercise of said functions, powers, and privileges: +</p> +<p> + These are, therefore, to declare that I no longer recognize the said + Charles Hunt as consul of Belgium for St. Louis, Mo., and will not permit + him to exercise or enjoy any of the functions, powers, or privileges + allowed to consuls of that nation, and that I do hereby wholly revoke + and annul the said exequatur heretofore given and do declare the same to + be absolutely null and void from this day forward. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have caused these letters to be made patent and + the seal of the United States of America to be hereunto affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Given under my hand, at Washington, this 19th day of May, A.D. 1864, and + of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-eighth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas by a proclamation which was issued on the 15th day of April, + 1861, the President of the United States announced and declared that the + laws of the United States had been for some time past, and then were, + opposed and the execution thereof obstructed in certain States therein + mentioned by combinations too powerful to be suppressed by the ordinary + course of judicial proceedings or by the powers vested in the marshals + by law; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas immediately after the issuing of the said proclamation the land + and naval forces of the United States were put into activity to suppress + the said insurrection and rebellion; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the Congress of the United States by an act approved on the 3d + day of March, 1863, did enact that during the said rebellion the + President of the United States, whenever in his judgment the public + safety may require it, is authorized to suspend the privilege of the + writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> in any case throughout the United States or in + any part thereof; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the said insurrection and rebellion still continue, endangering + the existence of the Constitution and Government of the United States; + and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the military forces of the United States are now actively + engaged in suppressing the said insurrection and rebellion in various + parts of the States where the said rebellion has been successful in + obstructing the laws and public authorities, especially in the States of + Virginia and Georgia; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas on the 15th day of September last the President of the United + States duly issued his proclamation, wherein he declared that the + privilege of the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> should be suspended throughout + the United States in the cases where, by the authority of the President + of the United States, military, naval, and civil officers of the United + States, or any of them, hold persons under their command or in their + custody, either as prisoners of war, spies, or aiders or abettors of the + enemy, or officers, soldiers, or seamen enrolled or drafted or mustered + or enlisted in or belonging to the land or naval forces of the United + States, or as deserters therefrom, or otherwise amenable to military law + or the rules and articles of war or the rules or regulations prescribed + for the military or naval services by authority of the President of the + United States, or for resisting a draft, or for any other offense + against the military or naval service; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas many citizens of the State of Kentucky have joined the forces of + the insurgents, and such insurgents have on several occasions entered + the said State of Kentucky in large force, and, not without aid and + comfort furnished by disaffected and disloyal citizens of the United + States residing therein, have not only greatly disturbed the public + peace, but have overborne the civil authorities and made flagrant civil + war, destroying property and life in various parts of that State; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas it has been made known to the President of the United States by + the officers commanding the national armies that combinations have been + formed in the said State of Kentucky with a purpose of inciting rebel + forces to renew the said operations of civil war within the said State + and thereby to embarrass the United States armies now operating in the + said States of Virginia and Georgia and even to endanger their safety: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, by + virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws, do + hereby declare that in my judgment the public safety especially requires + that the suspension of the privilege of the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i>, so + proclaimed in the said proclamation of the 15th of September, 1863, be + made effectual and be duly enforced in and throughout the said State of + Kentucky, and that martial law be for the present established therein. I + do therefore hereby require of the military officers in the said State + that the privileges of the writ of <i>habeas corpus</i> be effectually + suspended within the said State, according to the aforesaid + proclamation, and that martial law be established therein, to take + effect from the date of this proclamation, the said suspension and + establishment of martial law to continue until this proclamation shall + be revoked or modified, but not beyond the period when the said + rebellion shall have been suppressed or come to an end. And I do hereby + require and command as well all military officers as all civil officers + and authorities existing or found within the said State of Kentucky to + take notice of this proclamation and to give full effect to the same. +</p> +<p> + The martial law herein proclaimed and the things in that respect herein + ordered will not be deemed or taken to interfere with the holding of + lawful elections, or with the proceedings of the constitutional + legislature of Kentucky, or with the administration of justice in the + courts of law existing therein between citizens of the United States in + suits or proceedings which do not affect the military operations or the + constituted authorities of the Government of the United States. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 5th day of July, A.D. 1864, and of + the Independence of the United States the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas the Senate and House of Representatives at their last session + adopted a concurrent resolution, which was approved on the 2d day of + July instant and which was in the words following, namely: +</p> +<p> + That the President of the United States be requested to appoint a day + for humiliation and prayer by the people of the United States; that he + request his constitutional advisers at the head of the Executive + Departments to unite with him as Chief Magistrate of the nation, at the + city of Washington, and the members of Congress, and all magistrates, + all civil, military, and naval officers, all soldiers, sailors, and + marines, with all loyal and law-abiding people, to convene at their + usual places of worship, or wherever they may be, to confess and to + repent of their manifold sins; to implore the compassion and forgiveness + of the Almighty, that, if consistent with His will, the existing + rebellion may be speedily suppressed and the supremacy of the + Constitution and laws of the United States may be established throughout + all the States; to implore Him, as the Supreme Ruler of the World, not + to destroy us as a people, nor suffer us to be destroyed by the + hostility or connivance of other nations or by obstinate adhesion to our + own counsels, which may be in conflict with His eternal purposes, and to + implore Him to enlighten the mind of the nation to know and do His will, + humbly believing that it is in accordance with His will that our place + should be maintained as a united people among the family of nations; to + implore Him to grant to our armed defenders and the masses of the people + that courage, power of resistance, and endurance necessary to secure + that result; to implore Him in His infinite goodness to soften the + hearts, enlighten the minds, and quicken the consciences of those in + rebellion, that they may lay down their arms and speedily return to + their allegiance to the United States, that they may not be utterly + destroyed, that the effusion of blood may be stayed, and that unity and + fraternity may be restored and peace established throughout all our + borders: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, + cordially concurring with the Congress of the United States in the + penitential and pious sentiments expressed in the aforesaid resolution + and heartily approving of the devotional design and purpose thereof, do + hereby appoint the first Thursday of August next to be observed by the + people of the United States as a day of national humiliation and prayer. +</p> +<p> + I do hereby further invite and request the heads of the Executive + Departments of this Government, together with all legislators, all + judges and magistrates, and all other persons exercising authority in + the land, whether civil, military, or naval, and all soldiers, seamen, + and marines in the national service, and all the other loyal and + law-abiding people of the United States, to assemble in their preferred + places of public worship on that day, and there and then to render to + the almighty and merciful Ruler of the Universe such homages and such + confessions and to offer to Him such supplications as the Congress of + the United States have in their aforesaid resolution so solemnly, so + earnestly, and so reverently recommended. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 7th day of July, A.D. 1864, and of + the Independence of the United States the eighty-ninth +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas at the late session Congress passed a bill "to guarantee to + certain States whose governments have been usurped or overthrown a + republican form of government," a copy of which is hereunto annexed; + and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the said bill was presented to the President of the United + States for his approval less than one hour before the <i>sine die + </i>adjournment of said session, and was not signed by him; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the said bill contains, among other things, a plan for restoring + the States in rebellion to their proper practical relation in the Union, + which plan expresses the sense of Congress upon that subject, and which + plan it is now thought fit to lay before the people for their + consideration: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do + proclaim, declare, and make known that while I am (as I was in December + last, when, by proclamation, I propounded a plan for restoration) + unprepared by a formal approval of this bill to be inflexibly committed + to any single plan of restoration, and while I am also unprepared to + declare that the free State constitutions and governments already + adopted and installed in Arkansas and Louisiana shall be set aside and + held for naught, thereby repelling and discouraging the loyal citizens + who have set up the same as to further effort, or to declare a + constitutional competency in Congress to abolish slavery in States, but + am at the same time sincerely hoping and expecting that a constitutional + amendment abolishing slavery throughout the nation may be adopted, + nevertheless I am fully satisfied with the system for restoration + contained in the bill as one very proper plan for the loyal people of + any State choosing to adopt it, and that I am and at all times shall be + prepared to give the Executive aid and assistance to any such people so + soon as the military resistance to the United States shall have been + suppressed in any such State and the people thereof shall have + sufficiently returned to their obedience to the Constitution and the + laws of the United States, in which cases military governors will be + appointed with directions to proceed according to the bill. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal + of the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 8th day of July, A.D. 1864, and of + the Independence of the United States the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + [H.R. 244, Thirty-eighth Congress, first session.] +</center> +<p> + AN ACT to guarantee to certain States whose governments have been + usurped or overthrown a republican form of government. +</p> +<p> + <i>Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United + States of America in Congress assembled</i>, That in the States declared + in rebellion against the United States the President shall, by and with + the advice and consent of the Senate, appoint for each a provisional + governor, whose pay and emoluments shall not exceed that of a + brigadier-general of volunteers, who shall be charged with the civil + administration of such State until a State government therein shall be + recognized as hereinafter provided. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 2. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That so soon as the military + resistance to the United States shall have been suppressed in any such + State and the people thereof shall have sufficiently returned to their + obedience to the Constitution and the laws of the United States the + provisional governor shall direct the marshal of the United States, as + speedily as may be, to name a sufficient number of deputies, and to + enroll all white male citizens of the United States resident in the + State in their respective counties, and to request each one to take the + oath to support the Constitution of the United States, and in his + enrollment to designate those who take and those who refuse to take that + oath, which rolls shall be forthwith returned to the provisional + governor; and if the persons taking that oath shall amount to a majority + of the persons enrolled in the State, he shall, by proclamation, invite + the loyal people of the State to elect delegates to a convention charged + to declare the will of the people of the State relative to the + reestablishment of a State government, subject to and in conformity with + the Constitution of the United States. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 3. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That the convention shall consist + of as many members as both houses of the last constitutional State + legislature, apportioned by the provisional governor among the counties, + parishes, or districts of the State, in proportion to the white + population returned as electors by the marshal in compliance with the + provisions of this act. The provisional governor shall, by proclamation, + declare the number of delegates to be elected by each county, parish, or + election district; name a day of election not less than thirty days + thereafter; designate the places of voting in each county, parish, or + district, conforming as nearly as may be convenient to the places used + in the State elections next preceding the rebellion; appoint one or more + commissioners to hold the election at each place of voting, and provide + an adequate force to keep the peace during the election. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 4. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That the delegates shall be elected + by the loyal white male citizens of the United States of the age of 21 + years, and resident at the time in the county, parish, or district in + which they shall offer to vote, and enrolled as aforesaid, or absent + in the military service of the United States, and who shall take and + subscribe the oath of allegiance to the United States in the form + contained in the act of Congress of July 2, 1862; and all such citizens + of the United States who are in the military service of the United + States shall vote at the headquarters of their respective commands, + under such regulations as may be prescribed by the provisional governor + for the taking and return of their votes; but no person who has held or + exercised any office, civil or military, State or Confederate, under the + rebel usurpation, or who has voluntarily borne arms against the United + States, shall vote or be eligible to be elected as delegate at such + election. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 5. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That the said commissioners, or + either of them, shall hold the election in conformity with this act, + and, so far as may be consistent therewith, shall proceed in the manner + used in the State prior to the rebellion. The oath of allegiance + shall be taken and subscribed on the poll book by every voter in the + form above prescribed, but every person known by or proved to the + commissioners to have held or exercised any office, civil or military, + State or Confederate, under the rebel usurpation, or to have voluntarily + borne arms against the United States, shall be excluded though he offer + to take the oath; and in case any person who shall have borne arms + against the United States shall offer to vote, he shall be deemed to + have borne arms voluntarily unless he shall prove the contrary by the + testimony of a qualified voter. The poll book, showing the name and oath + of each voter, shall be returned to the provisional governor by the + commissioners of election, or the one acting, and the provisional + governor shall canvass such returns and declare the person having the + highest number of votes elected. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 6. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That the provisional governor + shall, by proclamation, convene the delegates elected as aforesaid at + the capital of the State on a day not more than three months after the + election, giving at least thirty days' notice of such day. In case + the said capital shall in his judgment be unfit, he shall in his + proclamation appoint another place. He shall preside over the + deliberations of the convention and administer to each delegate, before + taking his seat in the convention, the oath of allegiance to the United + States in the form above prescribed. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 7. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That the convention shall + declare on behalf of the people of the State their submission to + the Constitution and laws of the United States, and shall adopt the + following provisions, hereby prescribed by the United States in the + execution of the constitutional duty to guarantee a republican form of + government to every State, and incorporate them in the constitution of + the State; that is to say: +</p> +<p> + First. No person who has held or exercised any office, civil or military + (except offices merely ministerial and military offices below the grade + of colonel), State or Confederate, under the usurping power, shall vote + for or be a member of the legislature or governor. +</p> +<p> + Second. Involuntary servitude is forever prohibited, and the freedom of + all persons is guaranteed in said State. +</p> +<p> + Third. No debt, State or Confederate, created by or under the sanction + of the usurping power shall be recognized or paid by the State. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 8. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That when the convention shall have + adopted those provisions it shall proceed to reestablish a republican + form of government and ordain a constitution containing those + provisions, which, when adopted, the convention shall by ordinance + provide for submitting to the people of the State entitled to vote under + this law, at an election to be held in the manner prescribed by the act + for the election of delegates, but at a time and place named by the + convention, at which election the said electors, and none others, shall + vote directly for or against such constitution and form of State + government. And the returns of said election shall be made to the + provisional governor, who shall canvass the same in the presence of the + electors, and if a majority of the votes cast shall be for the + constitution and form of government, he shall certify the same, with a + copy thereof, to the President of the United States, who, after + obtaining the assent of Congress, shall, by proclamation, recognize the + government so established, and none other, as the constitutional + government of the State; and from the date of such recognition, and not + before, Senators and Representatives and electors for President and + Vice-President may be elected in such State, according to the laws of + the State and of the United States. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 9. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That if the convention shall refuse + to reestablish the State government on the conditions aforesaid the + provisional governor shall declare it dissolved; but it shall be the + duty of the President, whenever he shall have reason to believe that a + sufficient number of the people of the State entitled to vote under this + act, in number not less than a majority of those enrolled as aforesaid, + are willing to reestablish a State government on the conditions + aforesaid, to direct the provisional governor to order another election + of delegates to a convention for the purpose and in the manner + prescribed in this act, and to proceed in all respects as hereinbefore + provided, either to dissolve the convention or to certify the State + government reestablished by it to the President. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 10. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That until the United States shall + have recognized a republican form of State government the provisional + governor in each of said States shall see that this act and the laws of + the United States and the laws of the State in force when the State + government was overthrown by the rebellion are faithfully executed + within the State; but no law or usage whereby any person was heretofore + held in involuntary servitude shall be recognized or enforced by any + court or officer in such State; and the laws for the trial and + punishment of white persons shall extend to all persons, and jurors + shall have the qualifications of voters under this law for delegates to + the convention. The President shall appoint such officer provided for by + the laws of the State when its government was overthrown as he may find + necessary to the civil administration of the State, all which officers + shall be entitled to receive the fees and emoluments provided by the + State laws for such officers. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 11. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That until the recognition of a + State government as aforesaid the provisional governor shall, under such + regulations as he may prescribe, cause to be assessed, levied, and + collected, for the year 1864 and every year thereafter, the taxes + provided by the laws of such State to be levied during the fiscal year + preceding the overthrow of the State government thereof, in the manner + prescribed by the laws of the State, as nearly as may be; and the + officers appointed as aforesaid are vested with all powers of levying + and collecting such taxes, by distress or sale, as were vested in any + officers or tribunal of the State government aforesaid for those + purposes. The proceeds of such taxes shall be accounted for to the + provisional governor and be by him applied to the expenses of the + administration of the laws in such State, subject to the direction of + the President, and the surplus shall be deposited in the Treasury of the + United States to the credit of such State, to be paid to the State upon + an appropriation therefor to be made when a republican form of + government shall be recognized therein by the United States. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 12. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That all persons held to + involuntary servitude or labor in the States aforesaid are hereby + emancipated and discharged therefrom, and they and their posterity shall + be forever free. And if any such persons or their posterity shall be + restrained of liberty under pretense of any claim to such service or + labor, the courts of the United States shall, on <i>habeas corpus</i>, + discharge them. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 13. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That if any person declared free + by this act, or any law of the United States or any proclamation of the + President, be restrained of liberty with intent to be held in or reduced + to involuntary servitude or labor, the person convicted before a court + of competent jurisdiction of such act shall be punished by fine of not + less than $1,500 and be imprisoned not less than five nor more than + twenty years. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 14. <i>And be it further enacted</i>, That every person who shall + hereafter hold or exercise any office, civil or military (except offices + merely ministerial and military offices below the grade of colonel), in + the rebel service, State or Confederate, is hereby declared not to be a + citizen of the United States. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas by the act approved July 4, 1864, entitled "An act further to + regulate and provide for the enrolling and calling out the national + forces and for other purposes," it is provided that the President of the + United States may, "at his discretion, at any time hereafter, call for + any number of men, as volunteers for the respective terms of one, two, + and three years for military service," and "that in case the quota or + any part thereof of any town, township, ward of a city, precinct, or + election district, or of a county not so subdivided, shall not be filled + within the space of fifty days after such call, then the President shall + immediately order a draft for one year to fill such quota or any part + thereof which may be unfilled;" and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the new enrollment heretofore ordered is so far completed as + that the aforementioned act of Congress may now be put in operation for + recruiting and keeping up the strength of the armies in the field, for + garrisons, and such military operations as may be required for the + purpose of suppressing the rebellion and restoring the authority of the + United States Government in the insurgent States: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do + issue this my call for 500,000 volunteers for the military service: + <i>Provided, nevertheless</i>, That this call shall be reduced by all credits + which may be established under section 8 of the aforesaid act on account + of persons who have entered the naval service during the present + rebellion and by credits for men furnished to the military service in + excess of calls heretofore made. Volunteers will be accepted under this + call for one, two, or three years, as they may elect, and will be + entitled to the bounty provided by the law for the period of service for + which they enlist. +</p> +<p> + And I hereby proclaim, order, and direct that immediately after the 5th + day of September, 1864, being fifty days from the date of this call, + a draft for troops to serve for one year shall be had in every town, + township, ward of a city, precinct, or election district, or county not + so subdivided, to fill the quota which shall be assigned to it under + this call or any part thereof which may be unfilled by volunteers on the + said 5th day of September, 1864. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 18th day of July, A.D. 1864, and of + the Independence of the United States the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas the act of Congress of the 28th of September, 1850, entitled "An + act to create additional collection districts in the State of + California, and to change the existing districts therein, and to modify + the existing collection districts in the United States," extends to + merchandise warehoused under bond the privilege of being exported to the + British North American Provinces adjoining the United States in the + manner prescribed in the act of Congress of the 3d of March, 1845, which + designates certain frontier ports through which merchandise may be + exported, and further provides "that such other ports, situated on the + frontiers of the United States adjoining the British North American + Provinces, as may hereafter be found expedient may have extended to them + the like privileges on the recommendation of the Secretary of the + Treasury and proclamation duly made by the President of the United + States specially designating the ports to which the aforesaid privileges + are to be extended:" +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States of + America, in accordance with the recommendation of the Secretary of the + Treasury, do hereby declare and proclaim that the port of Newport, in + the State of Vermont, is and shall be entitled to all the privileges in + regard to the exportation of merchandise in bond to the British North + American Provinces adjoining the United States which are extended to the + ports enumerated in the seventh section of the act of Congress of the 3d + of March, 1845, aforesaid, from and after the date of this proclamation. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 18th day of August, A.D. 1864, and + of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + It has pleased Almighty God to prolong our national life another year, + defending us with His guardian care against unfriendly designs from + abroad and vouchsafing to us in His mercy many and signal victories over + the enemy, who is of our own household. It has also pleased our Heavenly + Father to favor as well our citizens in their homes as our soldiers in + their camps and our sailors on the rivers and seas with unusual health. + He has largely augmented our free population by emancipation and by + immigration, while He has opened to us new sources of wealth and has + crowned the labor of our workingmen in every department of industry with + abundant rewards. Moreover, He has been pleased to animate and inspire + our minds and hearts with fortitude, courage, and resolution sufficient + for the great trial of civil war into which we have been brought by our + adherence as a nation to the cause of freedom and humanity, and to + afford to us reasonable hopes of an ultimate and happy deliverance from + all our dangers and afflictions: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do + hereby appoint and set apart the last Thursday in November next as a day + which I desire to be observed by all my fellow-citizens, wherever they + may then be, as a day of thanksgiving and praise to Almighty God, the + beneficent Creator and Ruler of the Universe. And I do further recommend + to my fellow-citizens aforesaid that on that occasion they do reverently + humble themselves in the dust and from thence offer up penitent and + fervent prayers and supplications to the Great Disposer of Events for + a return of the inestimable blessings of peace, union, and harmony + throughout the land which it has pleased Him to assign as a dwelling + place for ourselves and for our posterity throughout all generations. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 20th day of October, A.D. 1864, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas the Congress of the United States passed an act, which was + approved on the 21st day of March last, entitled "An act to enable the + people of Nevada to form a constitution and State government and for the + admission of such State into the Union on an equal footing with the + original States;" and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the said constitution and State government have been formed, + pursuant to the conditions prescribed by the fifth section of the act of + Congress aforesaid, and the certificate required by the said act and + also a copy of the constitution and ordinances have been submitted to + the President of the United States: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States, in accordance with the duty imposed upon me by the act of + Congress aforesaid, do hereby declare and proclaim that the said State + of Nevada is admitted into the Union on an equal footing with the + original States. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 31st day of October, A.D. 1864, + and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas by my proclamation of the 19th of April, 1861, it was declared + that the ports of certain States, including those of Norfolk, in the + State of Virginia, Fernandina and Pensacola, in the State of Florida, + were, for reasons therein set forth, intended to be placed under + blockade; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the said ports were subsequently blockaded accordingly, but + having for some time past been in the military possession of the United + States, it is deemed advisable that they should be opened to domestic + and foreign commerce: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States, pursuant to the authority in me vested by the fifth + section of the act of Congress approved on the 13th of July, 1861, + entitled "An act further to provide for the collection of duties on + imports, and for other purposes," do hereby declare that the blockade of + the said ports of Norfolk, Fernandina, and Pensacola shall so far cease + and determine, from and after the 1st day of December next, that + commercial intercourse with those ports, except as to persons, things, + and information contraband of war, may from that time be carried on, + subject to the laws of the United States, to the limitations and in + pursuance of the regulations which may be prescribed by the Secretary of + the Treasury, and to such military and naval regulations as are now in + force or may hereafter be found necessary. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 19th day of November, A.D. 1864, + and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0030"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + EXECUTIVE ORDERS. +</h2> +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., December 7, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + Reliable information being received that the insurgent force is + retreating from east Tennessee under circumstances rendering it probable + that the Union forces can not hereafter be dislodged from that important + position, and esteeming this to be of high national consequence, I + recommend that all loyal people do, on receipt of this information, + assemble at their places of worship and render special homage and + gratitude to Almighty God for this great advancement of the national + cause. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 398. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, December 21, 1863</i>. +</p> +<p> + The following joint resolution by the Senate and House of + Representatives of the United States is published to the Army: +</p> +<p> + JOINT RESOLUTION of thanks to Major-General Ulysses S. Grant and the + officers and soldiers who have fought under his command during this + rebellion, and providing that the President of the United States shall + cause a medal to be struck, to be presented to Major-General Grant in + the name of the people of the United States of America. +</p> +<p> + <i>Be it resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United + States of America in Congress assembled</i>, That the thanks of Congress + be, and they hereby are, presented to Major-General Ulysses S. Grant, + and through him to the officers and soldiers who have fought under his + command during this rebellion, for their gallantry and good conduct in + the battles in which they have been engaged; and that the President of + the United States be requested to cause a gold medal to be struck, with + suitable emblems, devices, and inscriptions, to be presented to + Major-General Grant. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 2. <i>And be it further resolved</i>, That when the said medal shall + have been struck the President shall cause a copy of this joint + resolution to be engrossed on parchment, and shall transmit the same, + together with the said medal, to Major-General Grant, to be presented + to him in the name of the people of the United States of America. +</p> +<p> + SEC. 3. <i>And be it further resolved</i>, That a sufficient sum of money + to carry this resolution into effect is hereby appropriated out of any + money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated. +</p> +<p class="r"> +SCHUYLER COLFAX,<br> + <i>Speaker of the House of Representatives</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +H. HAMLIN,<br> + <i>Vice-president of the United States and President of the Senate</i>. +</p> +<p> + Approved, December 17, 1863. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + By order of the Secretary of War: +</p> +<p class="r"> +E.D. TOWNSEND,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>January 9, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + Information having been received that Caleb B. Smith, late Secretary of + the Interior, has departed this life at his residence in Indiana, it is + ordered that the executive buildings at the seat of the Government be + draped in mourning for the period of fourteen days in honor of his + memory as a prudent and loyal counselor and a faithful and effective + coadjutor of the Administration in a time of public difficulty and + peril. +</p> +<p> + The Secretary of State will communicate a copy of this order to the + family of the deceased, together with proper expressions of the profound + sympathy of the President and the heads of Departments in their + irreparable bereavement. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, January 12</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>It is hereby ordered</i>, That all orders and records relating to the + Missouri troops, designated, respectively, as Missouri State Militia + (M.S.M.) and as Enrolled Missouri Militia (E.M.M.), and which are or + have been on file in the offices of the adjutant-generals or their + assistants at the different headquarters located in the State of + Missouri, shall be open to the inspection of the general assembly of + Missouri or of persons commissioned by it, and that copies of such + records be furnished them when called for. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>February 1, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That a draft for 500,000 men, to serve for three years or + during the war, be made on the 10th day of March next for the military + service of the United States, crediting and deducting therefrom so many + as may have been enlisted or drafted into the service prior to the 1st + day of March and not heretofore credited. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>February 1, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> +Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> + SIR: You are directed to have a transport (either a steam or sailing + vessel, as may be deemed proper by the Quartermaster-General) sent to + the colored colony established by the United States at the island of + Vache, on the coast of San Domingo, to bring back to this country such + of the colonists there as desire to return. You will have the transport + furnished with suitable supplies for that purpose, and detail an officer + of the Quartermaster's Department, who, under special instructions to be + given, shall have charge of the business. The colonists will be brought + to Washington, unless otherwise hereafter directed, and be employed and + provided for at the camps for colored persons around that city. Those + only will be brought from the island who desire to return, and their + effects will be brought with them. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 76. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, February 26, 1864</i>. +</p> +<center> + SENTENCE OF DESERTERS. +</center> +<p> + The President directs that the sentences of all deserters who have been + condemned by court-martial to death, and that have not been otherwise + acted upon by him, be mitigated to imprisonment during the war at the + Dry Tortugas, Florida, where they will be sent under suitable guards by + orders from army commanders. +</p> +<p> + The commanding generals, who have power to act on proceedings of + courts-martial in such cases, are authorized in special cases to restore + to duty deserters under sentence, when in their judgment the service + will be thereby benefited. +</p> +<p> + Copies of all orders issued under the foregoing instructions will be + immediately forwarded to the Adjutant-General and to the + Judge-Advocate-General. +</p> +<p> + By order of the Secretary of War: +</p> +<p class="r"> +E.D. TOWNSEND,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, March 7, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + Whereas by an Executive order of the 10th of November last permission + was given to export certain tobacco belonging to the French Government + from insurgent territory, which tobacco was supposed to have been + purchased and paid for prior to the 4th day of March, 1861; but whereas + it was subsequently ascertained that a part at least of the said tobacco + had been purchased subsequently to that date, which fact made it + necessary to suspend the carrying into effect of the said order; but + whereas, pursuant to mutual explanations, a satisfactory understanding + upon the subject has now been reached, it is directed that the order + aforesaid may be carried into effect, it being understood that the + quantity of French tobacco so to be exported shall not exceed 7,000 + hogsheads, and that it is the same tobacco respecting the exportation of + which application was originally made by the French Government. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p> + In pursuance of the provisions of section 14 of the act of Congress + entitled "An act to aid in the construction of a railroad and telegraph + line from the Missouri River to the Pacific Ocean, and to secure to + the Government the use of the same for postal, military, and other + purposes," approved July 1, 1862, authorizing and directing the + President of the United States to fix the point on the western boundary + of the State of Iowa from which the Union Pacific Railroad Company is + by said section authorized and required to construct a single line of + railroad and telegraph upon the most direct and practicable route, + subject to the approval of the President of the United States, so as to + form a connection with the lines of said company at some point on the + one hundredth meridian of longitude in said section named, I, Abraham + Lincoln, President of the United States, do, upon the application of the + said company, designate and establish such first above-named point on + the western boundary of the State of Iowa east of and opposite to the + east line of section 10, in township 15 north, of range 13 east, of the + sixth principal meridian, in the Territory of Nebraska. +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 7th day of March, A.D. 1864. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., March 10, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + Under the authority of an act of Congress to revive the grade of + lieutenant-general in the United States Army, approved February 29, + 1864, Lieutenant-General Ulysses S. Grant, United States Army, is + assigned to the command of the armies of the United States. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 98. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, March 12, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + The President of the United States orders as follows: +</p> +<p> + I. Major-General H.W. Halleck is, at his own request, relieved from duty + as General in Chief of the Army, and Lieutenant-General U.S. Grant is + assigned to the command of the armies of the United States. The + headquarters of the Army will be in Washington and also with + Lieutenant-General Grant in the field. +</p> +<p> + II. Major-General H.W. Halleck is assigned to duty in Washington as + chief of staff of the Army, under the direction of the Secretary of War + and the Lieutenant-General Commanding. His orders will be obeyed and + respected accordingly. +</p> +<p> + III. Major-General W.T. Sherman is assigned to the command of the + Military Division of the Mississippi, composed of the departments of the + Ohio, the Cumberland, the Tennessee and the Arkansas. +</p> +<p> + IV. Major-General J.B. McPherson is assigned to the command of the + Department and Army of the Tennessee. +</p> +<p> + V. In relieving Major-General Halleck from duty as General in Chief, the + President desires to express his approbation and thanks for the able and + zealous manner in which the arduous and responsible duties of that + position have been performed. +</p> +<p> + By order of the Secretary of War: +</p> +<p class="r"> +E.D. TOWNSEND,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, March 14, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + In order to supply the force required to be drafted for the Navy and to + provide an adequate reserve force for all contingencies, in addition to + the 500,000 men called for February 1, 1864, a call is hereby made and a + draft ordered for 200,000 men for the military service (Army, Navy, and + Marine Corps) of the United States. +</p> +<p> + The proportional quotas for the different wards, towns, townships, + precincts, or election districts, or counties, will be made known + through the Provost-Marshal-General's Bureau, and account will be taken + of the credits and deficiencies on former quotas. +</p> +<p> + The 15th day of April, 1864, is designated as the time up to which the + numbers required from each ward of a city, town, etc., may be raised by + voluntary enlistment, and drafts will be made in each ward of a city, + town, etc., which shall not have filled the quota assigned to it within + the time designated for the number required to fill said quotas. The + drafts will be commenced as soon after the 15th of April as practicable. +</p> +<p> + The Government bounties as now paid continue until April 1, 1864, at + which time the additional bounties cease. On and after that date $100 + bounty only will be paid, as provided by the act approved July 22, 1861, +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>April 2, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That the Executive order of September 4, 1863, in relation to + the exportation of live stock from the United States, be so extended as + to prohibit the exportation of all classes of salted provisions from any + part of the United States to any foreign port, except that meats cured, + salted, or packed in any State or Territory bordering on the Pacific + Ocean may be exported from any port of such State or Territory. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p> + The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: +</p> +<p> + I. The governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin offer + to the President infantry troops for the approaching campaign as + follows: +</p> +<table class="t" summary="Troop data" align="center"> +<tr><td width="33%"> + Ohio </td><td align="right">30,000</td></tr> +<tr><td> + Indiana </td><td align="right">20,000</td></tr> +<tr><td> + Illinois </td><td align="right">20,000</td></tr> +<tr><td> + Iowa </td><td align="right">10,000</td></tr> +<tr><td> + Wisconsin </td><td align="right">5,000</td></tr> +</table> +<p> + II. The term of service to be one hundred days, reckoning from the date + of muster into the service of the United States, unless sooner + discharged. +</p> +<p> + III. The troops to be mustered into the service of the United States by + regiments, when the regiments are rilled up, according to regulations, + to the minimum strength, the regiments to be organized according to the + regulations of the War Department. The whole number to be furnished + within twenty days from date of notice of the acceptance of this + proposition. +</p> +<p> + IV. The troops to be clothed, armed, equipped, subsisted, transported, + and paid as other United States infantry volunteers, and to serve in + fortifications, or wherever their services may be required, within or + without their respective States. +</p> +<p> + V. No bounty to be paid the troops, nor the service charged or credited + on any draft. +</p> +<p> + VI. The draft for three years' service to go on in any State or district + where the quota is not filled up; but if any officer or soldier in this + special service should be drafted he shall be credited for the service + rendered. +</p> +<p class="r"> +JOHN BROUGH,<br> + <i>Governor of Ohio</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +O.P. MORTON,<br> + <i>Governor of Indiana</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +RICHARD YATES,<br> + <i>Governor of Illinois</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +WM. M. STONE,<br> + <i>Governor of Iowa</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +JAMES T. LEWIS,<br> + <i>Governor of Wisconsin</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + APRIL 23, 1864. +</p> +<p> + The foregoing proposition of the governors is accepted, and the + Secretary of War is directed to carry it into execution. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, May 9, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Friends of the Union and Liberty</i>: +</p> +<p> + Enough is known of the army operations within the last five days to + claim our especial gratitude to God, while what remains undone demands + our most sincere prayers to and reliance upon Him, without whom all + human efforts are in vain. I recommend that all patriots, at their + homes, in their places of public worship, and wherever they may be, + unite in common thanksgiving and prayer to Almighty God. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, May 18, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +Major-General JOHN A. DIX,<br> + <i>Commanding at New York</i>: +</p> +<p> + Whereas there has been wickedly and traitorously printed and published + this morning in the New York World and New York Journal of Commerce, + newspapers printed and published in the city of New York, a false and + spurious proclamation purporting to be signed by the President and to be + countersigned by the Secretary of State, which publication is of a + treasonable nature, designed to give aid and comfort to the enemies of + the United States and to the rebels now at war against the Government + and their aiders and abettors, you are therefore hereby commanded + forthwith to arrest and imprison in any fort or military prison in your + command the editors, proprietors, and publishers of the aforesaid + newspapers, and all such persons as, after public notice has been given + of the falsehood of said publication, print and publish the same with + intent to give aid and comfort to the enemy; and you will hold the + persons so arrested in close custody until they can be brought to trial + before a military commission for their offense. You will also take + possession by military force of the printing establishments of the New + York World and Journal of Commerce, and hold the same until further + orders, and prohibit any further publication therefrom. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>Washington, D.C.</i> +</p> +<p> + The President of the United States directs that the four persons whose + names follow, to wit, Hon. Clement C. Clay, Hon. Jacob Thompson, + Professor James P. Holcombe, George N. Sanders, shall have safe conduct + to the city of Washington in company with the Hon. Horace Greeley, and + shall be exempt from arrest or annoyance of any kind from any officer of + the United States during their journey to the said city of Washington. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> +JOHN HAY,<br> + <i>Major and Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, July 18, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To whom it may concern</i>: +</p> +<p> + Any proposition which embraces the restoration of peace, the integrity + of the whole Union, and the abandonment of slavery, and which comes by + and with an authority that can control the armies now at war against the + United States, will be received and considered by the executive + government of the United States, and will be met by liberal terms on + other substantial and collateral points; and the bearer or bearers + thereof shall have safe conduct both ways. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>Washington, August 31, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + Any person or persons engaged in bringing out cotton, in strict + conformity with authority given by W. P. Fessenden, Secretary of the + United States Treasury, must not be hindered by the War, Navy, or any + other Department of the Government or any person engaged under any of + said Departments. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>September 3, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + The national thanks are tendered by the President to Major-General + William T. Sherman and the gallant officers and soldiers of his command + before Atlanta for the distinguished ability, courage, and perseverance + displayed in the campaign in Georgia, which, under divine favor, has + resulted in the capture of the city of Atlanta. The marches, battles, + sieges, and other military operations that have signalized this campaign + must render it famous in the annals of war, and have entitled those who + have participated therein to the applause and thanks of the nation. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington City, September 3, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, first. That on Monday, the 5th day of September, commencing + at the hour of 12 o'clock noon, there shall be given a salute of 100 + guns at the arsenal and navy-yard at Washington, and on Tuesday, the 6th + of September, or on the day after the receipt of this order, at each + arsenal and navy-yard in the United States, for the recent brilliant + achievements of the fleet and land forces of the United States in the + harbor of Mobile and in the reduction of Fort Powell, Fort Gaines, and + Fort Morgan. The Secretary of War and Secretary of the Navy will issue + the necessary directions in their respective Departments for the + execution of this order. +</p> +<p> + Second. That on Wednesday, the 7th day of September, commencing at the + hour of 12 o'clock noon, there shall be fired a salute of 100 guns at + the arsenal at Washington, and at New York, Boston, Philadelphia, + Baltimore, Pittsburg, Newport, Ky., and St. Louis, and at New Orleans, + Mobile, Pensacola, Hilton Head, and New Berne the day after the receipt + of this order, for the brilliant achievements of the army under command + of Major-General Sherman in the State of Georgia and the capture of + Atlanta. The Secretary of War will issue directions for the execution of + this order. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>Washington, September 3, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + The signal success that Divine Providence has recently vouchsafed to the + operations of the United States fleet and army in the harbor of Mobile, + and the reduction of Fort Powell, Fort Gaines, and Fort Morgan, and the + glorious achievements of the army under Major-General Sherman in the + State of Georgia, resulting in the capture of the city of Atlanta, call + for devout acknowledgment to the Supreme Being, in whose hands are the + destinies of nations. It is therefore requested that on next Sunday, in + all places of public worship in the United States, thanksgiving be + offered to Him for His mercy in preserving our national existence + against the insurgent rebels who so long have been waging a cruel war + against the Government of the United States for its overthrow; and also + that prayer be made for the divine protection to our brave soldiers and + their leaders in the field, who have so often and so gallantly periled + their lives in battling with the enemy, and for blessing and comfort + from the Father of Mercies to the sick, wounded, and prisoners, and to + the orphans and widows of those who have fallen in the service of their + country; and that He will continue to uphold the Government of the + United States against all the efforts of public enemies and secret foes. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>September 3, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + The national thanks are tendered by the President to Admiral Farragut + and Major-General Canby for the skill and harmony with which the recent + operations in Mobile Harbor and against Fort Powell, Fort Gaines, and + Fort Morgan were planned and carried into execution; also to Admiral + Farragut and Major-General Granger, under whose immediate command they + were conducted, and to the gallant commanders on sea and land, and to + the sailors and soldiers engaged in the operations, for their energy and + courage, which, under the blessing of Providence, have been crowned with + brilliant success and have won for them the applause and thanks of the + nation. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington City, September 10, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + The term of one hundred days for which the National Guard of Ohio + volunteered having expired, the President directs an official + acknowledgment to be made of their patriotic and valuable services + during the recent campaigns. The term of service of their enlistment was + short, but distinguished by memorable events. In the Valley of the + Shenandoah, on the Peninsula, in the operations on the James River, + around Petersburg and Richmond, in the battle of Monocacy, and in the + intrenchments of Washington, and in other important service, the + National Guard of Ohio performed with alacrity the duty of patriotic + volunteers, for which they are entitled to and are hereby tendered, + through the governor of their State, the national thanks. +</p> +<p> + The Secretary of War is directed to transmit a copy of this order to the + governor of Ohio and to cause a certificate of their honorable service + to be delivered to the officers and soldiers of the Ohio National Guard + who recently served in the military force of the United States as + volunteers for one hundred days. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>September 24, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + I. Congress having authorized the purchase for the United States of the + product of States declared in insurrection, and the Secretary of the + Treasury having designated New Orleans, Memphis, Nashville, Pensacola, + Port Royal, Beaufort, N.C., and Norfolk as places of purchase, and with + my approval appointed agents and made regulations under which said + products may be purchased: Therefore, +</p> +<p> + II. All persons, except such as may be in the civil, military, or naval + service of the Government, having in their possession any products of + States declared in insurrection which said agents are authorized to + purchase, and all persons owning or controlling such products therein, + are authorized to convey such products to either of the places which + have been hereby or may hereafter be designated as places of purchase, + and such products so destined shall not be liable to detention, seizure, + or forfeiture while <i>in transitu</i> or in store awaiting transportation. +</p> +<p> + III. Any person having the certificate of a purchasing agent, as + prescribed by Treasury Regulations, VIII, is authorized to pass, with + the necessary means of transportation, to the points named in said + certificate, and to return therefrom with the products required for the + fulfillment of the stipulations set forth in said certificate. +</p> +<p> + IV. Any person having sold and delivered to a purchasing agent any + products of an insurrectionary State in accordance with the regulations + in relation thereto, and having in his possession a certificate setting + forth the fact of such purchase and sale, the character and quantity of + products, and the aggregate amount paid therefor, as prescribed by + Regulation IX, shall be permitted by the military authority commanding + at the place of sale to purchase from any authorized dealer at such + place, or any other place in a loyal State, merchandise and other + articles not contraband of war nor prohibited by the order of the War + Department, nor coin, bullion, or foreign exchange, to an amount not + exceeding in value one-third of the aggregate value of the products sold + by him, as certified by the agent purchasing; and the merchandise and + other articles so purchased may be transported by the same route and to + the same place from and by which the products sold and delivered reached + the purchasing agent, as set forth in the certificate; and such + merchandise and other articles shall have safe conduct, and shall not be + subject to detention, seizure, or forfeiture while being transported to + the places and by the route set forth in the said certificate. +</p> +<p> + V. Generals commanding military districts and commandants of military + posts and detachments, and officers commanding fleets, flotillas, and + gunboats, will give safe conduct to persons and products, merchandise, + and other articles duly authorized as aforesaid, and not contraband of + war or prohibited by order of the War Department, or the orders of such + generals commanding, or other duly authorized military or naval officer, + made in pursuance thereof; and all persons hindering or preventing such + safe conduct of persons or property will be deemed guilty of a military + offense and punished accordingly. +</p> +<p> + VI. Any person transporting or attempting to transport any merchandise + or other articles, except in pursuance of regulations of the Secretary + of the Treasury dated July 29, 1864, or in pursuance of this order, or + transporting or attempting to transport any merchandise or other + articles contraband of war or forbidden by any order of the War + Department, will be deemed guilty of a military offense and punished + accordingly; and all products of insurrectionary States found <i>in + transitu</i> to any other person or place than a purchasing agent and a + designated place of purchase shall be seized and forfeited to the United + States, except such as may be moving to a loyal State under duly + authorized permits of a proper officer of the Treasury Department, as + prescribed by Regulation XXXVIII, concerning "commercial intercourse," + dated July 29, 1864, or such as may have been found abandoned or have + been captured and are moving in pursuance of the act of March 12, 1863. +</p> +<p> + VII. No military or naval officer of the United States, or person in the + military or naval service, nor any civil officer, except such as are + appointed for that purpose, shall engage in trade or traffic in the + products of insurrectionary States, or furnish transportation therefor, + under pain of being deemed guilty of unlawful trading with the enemy and + punished accordingly. +</p> +<p> + VIII. The Secretary of War will make such general orders or regulations + as will insure the proper observance and execution of this order, and + the Secretary of the Navy will give instructions to officers commanding + fleets, flotillas, and gunboats in conformity therewith. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, October 1, 1864</i>. +</p> +<center> + SPECIAL EXECUTIVE ORDER RETURNING THANKS TO THE VOLUNTEERS FOR ONE + HUNDRED DAYS FROM THE STATES OF INDIANA, ILLINOIS, IOWA, AND WISCONSIN. +</center> +<p> + The term of one hundred days for which volunteers from the States of + Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin volunteered, under the call of + their respective governors, in the months of May and June, to aid in the + campaign of General Sherman, having expired, the President directs an + official acknowledgment to be made of their patriotic service. It was + their good fortune to render efficient service in the brilliant + operations in the Southwest and to contribute to the victories of the + national arms over the rebel forces in Georgia under command of Johnston + and Hood. On all occasions and in every service to which they were + assigned their duty as patriotic volunteers was performed with alacrity + and courage, for which they are entitled to and are hereby tendered the + national thanks through the governors of their respective States. +</p> +<p> + The Secretary of War is directed to transmit a copy of this order to the + governors of Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin and to cause a + certificate of their honorable service to be delivered to the officers + and soldiers of the States above named who recently served in the + military force of the United States as volunteers for one hundred days. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, October 12, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + The Japanese Government having caused the construction at New York of a + vessel of war called the <i>Fusigama</i>, and application having been made + for the clearance of the same, in order that it may proceed to Japan, it + is ordered, in view of the state of affairs in that country and of its + relation with the United States, that a compliance with the application + be for the present suspended. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 282. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, November 14, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered by the President</i>, I. That the resignation of George B. + McClellan as major-general in the United States Army, dated November 8 + and received by the Adjutant-General on the 10th instant, be accepted as + of the 8th of November. +</p> +<p> + II. That for the personal gallantry, military skill, and just confidence + in the courage and patriotism of his troops displayed by Philip H. + Sheridan on the 19th day of October at Cedar Run, whereby, under the + blessing of Providence, his routed army was reorganized, a great + national disaster averted, and a brilliant victory achieved over the + rebels for the third time in pitched battle within thirty days, Philip + H. Sheridan is appointed major-general in the United States Army, to + rank as such from the 8th day of November, 1864. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President of the United States: +</p> +<p class="r"> +E.D. TOWNSEND,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i> +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, December 3, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + A war steamer, called the <i>Funayma Solace</i>, having been built in this + country for the Japanese Government and at the instance of that + Government, it is deemed to comport with the public interest, in view of + the unsettled condition of the relations of the United States with that + Empire, that the steamer should not be allowed to proceed to Japan. If, + however, the Secretary of the Navy should ascertain that the steamer is + adapted to our service, he is authorized to purchase her, but the + purchase money will be held in trust toward satisfying any valid claims + which may be presented by the Japanese on account of the construction of + the steamer and the failure to deliver the same, as above set forth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0031"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + FOURTH ANNUAL MESSAGE. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + DECEMBER 6, 1864. +</p> +<p> + <i>Fellow-Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + Again the blessings of health and abundant harvests claim our + profoundest gratitude to Almighty God. +</p> +<p> + The condition of our foreign affairs is reasonably satisfactory. +</p> +<p> + Mexico continues to be a theater of civil war. While our political + relations with that country have undergone no change, we have at the + same time strictly maintained neutrality between the belligerents. +</p> +<p> + At the request of the States of Costa Rica and Nicaragua, a competent + engineer has been authorized to make a survey of the river San Juan and + the port of San Juan. It is a source of much satisfaction that the + difficulties which for a moment excited some political apprehensions and + caused a closing of the interoceanic transit route have been amicably + adjusted, and that there is a good prospect that the route will soon be + reopened with an increase of capacity and adaptation. We could not + exaggerate either the commercial or the political importance of that + great improvement. +</p> +<p> + It would be doing injustice to an important South American State not to + acknowledge the directness, frankness, and cordiality with which the + United States of Colombia have entered into intimate relations with this + Government. A claims convention has been constituted to complete the + unfinished work of the one which closed its session in 1861. +</p> +<p> + The new liberal constitution of Venezuela having gone into effect with + the universal acquiescence of the people, the Government under it has + been recognized and diplomatic intercourse with it has opened in a + cordial and friendly spirit. The long-deferred Aves Island claim has + been satisfactorily paid and discharged. +</p> +<p> + Mutual payments have been made of the claims awarded by the late joint + commission for the settlement of claims between the United States and + Peru. An earnest and cordial friendship continues to exist between the + two countries, and such efforts as were in my power have been used to + remove misunderstanding and avert a threatened war between Peru and + Spain. +</p> +<p> + Our relations are of the most friendly nature with Chile, the Argentine + Republic, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Paraguay, San Salvador, and Hayti. +</p> +<p> + During the past year no differences of any kind have arisen with any of + those Republics, and, on the other hand, their sympathies with the + United States are constantly expressed with cordiality and earnestness. +</p> +<p> + The claim arising from the seizure of the cargo of the brig <i>Macedonian</i> + in 1821 has been paid in full by the Government of Chile. +</p> +<p> + Civil war continues in the Spanish part of San Domingo, apparently + without prospect of an early close. +</p> +<p> + Official correspondence has been freely opened with Liberia, and it + gives us a pleasing view of social and political progress in that + Republic. It may be expected to derive new vigor from American + influence, improved by the rapid disappearance of slavery in the United + States. +</p> +<p> + I solicit your authority to furnish to the Republic a gunboat at + moderate cost, to be reimbursed to the United States by installments. + Such a vessel is needed for the safety of that State against the native + African races, and in Liberian hands it would be more effective in + arresting the African slave trade than a squadron in our own hands. The + possession of the least organized naval force would stimulate a generous + ambition in the Republic, and the confidence which we should manifest by + furnishing it would win forbearance and favor toward the colony from all + civilized nations. +</p> +<p> + The proposed overland telegraph between America and Europe, by the way + of Behrings Straits and Asiatic Russia, which was sanctioned by Congress + at the last session, has been undertaken, under very favorable + circumstances, by an association of American citizens, with the cordial + good will and support as well of this Government as of those of Great + Britain and Russia. Assurances have been received from most of the South + American States of their high appreciation of the enterprise and their + readiness to cooperate in constructing lines tributary to that + world-encircling communication. I learn with much satisfaction that the + noble design of a telegraphic communication between the eastern coast of + America and Great Britain has been renewed, with full expectation of its + early accomplishment. +</p> +<p> + Thus it is hoped that with the return of domestic peace the country will + be able to resume with energy and advantage its former high career of + commerce and civilization. +</p> +<p> + Our very popular and estimable representative in Egypt died in April + last. An unpleasant altercation which arose between the temporary + incumbent of the office and the Government of the Pasha resulted in a + suspension of intercourse. The evil was promptly corrected on the + arrival of the successor in the consulate, and our relations with Egypt, + as well as our relations with the Barbary Powers, are entirely + satisfactory. +</p> +<p> + The rebellion which has so long been flagrant in China has at last been + suppressed, with the cooperating good offices of this Government and of + the other Western commercial States. The judicial consular establishment + there has become very difficult and onerous, and it will need + legislative revision to adapt it to the extension of our commerce and to + the more intimate intercourse which has been instituted with the + Government and people of that vast Empire. China seems to be accepting + with hearty good will the conventional laws which regulate commercial + and social intercourse among the Western nations. +</p> +<p> + Owing to the peculiar situation of Japan and the anomalous form of its + Government, the action of that Empire in performing treaty stipulations + is inconstant and capricious. Nevertheless, good progress has been + effected by the Western powers, moving with enlightened concert. Our own + pecuniary claims have been allowed or put in course of settlement, and + the inland sea has been reopened to commerce. There is reason also to + believe that these proceedings have increased rather than diminished the + friendship of Japan toward the United States. +</p> +<p> + The ports of Norfolk, Fernandina, and Pensacola have been opened by + proclamation. It is hoped that foreign merchants will now consider + whether it is not safer and more profitable to themselves, as well as + just to the United States, to resort to these and other open ports than + it is to pursue, through many hazards and at vast cost, a contraband + trade with other ports which are closed, if not by actual military + occupation, at least by a lawful and effective blockade. +</p> +<p> + For myself, I have no doubt of the power and duty of the Executive, + under the law of nations, to exclude enemies of the human race from an + asylum in the United States. If Congress should think that proceedings + in such cases lack the authority of law, or ought to be further + regulated by it, I recommend that provision be made for effectually + preventing foreign slave traders from acquiring domicile and facilities + for their criminal occupation in our country. +</p> +<p> + It is possible that if it were a new and open question the maritime + powers, with the lights they now enjoy, would not concede the privileges + of a naval belligerent to the insurgents of the United States, + destitute, as they are, and always have been, equally of ships of war + and of ports and harbors. Disloyal emissaries have been neither less + assiduous nor more successful during the last year than they were before + that time in their efforts, under favor of that privilege, to embroil + our country in foreign wars. The desire and determination of the + governments of the maritime states to defeat that design are believed to + be as sincere as and can not be more earnest than our own. Nevertheless, + unforeseen political difficulties have arisen, especially in Brazilian + and British ports and on the northern boundary of the United States, + which have required, and are likely to continue to require, the practice + of constant vigilance and a just and conciliatory spirit on the part of + the United States, as well as of the nations concerned and their + governments. +</p> +<p> + Commissioners have been appointed under the treaty with Great Britain on + the adjustment of the claims of the Hudsons Bay and Pugets Sound + Agricultural Companies, in Oregon, and are now proceeding to the + execution of the trust assigned to them. +</p> +<p> + In view of the insecurity of life and property in the region adjacent to + the Canadian border, by reason of recent assaults and depredations + committed by inimical and desperate persons who are harbored there, it + has been thought proper to give notice that after the expiration of six + months, the period conditionally stipulated in the existing arrangement + with Great Britain, the United States must hold themselves at liberty to + increase their naval armament upon the Lakes if they shall find that + proceeding necessary. The condition of the border will necessarily come + into consideration in connection with the question of continuing or + modifying the rights of transit from Canada through the United States, + as well as the regulation of imposts, which were temporarily established + by the reciprocity treaty of the 5th June, 1854. +</p> +<p> + I desire, however, to be understood while making this statement that the + colonial authorities of Canada are not deemed to be intentionally unjust + or unfriendly toward the United States, but, on the contrary, there is + every reason to expect that, with the approval of the Imperial + Government, they will take the necessary measures to prevent new + incursions across the border. +</p> +<p> + The act passed at the last session for the encouragement of immigration + has so far as was possible been put into operation. It seems to need + amendment which will enable the officers of the Government to prevent + the practice of frauds against the immigrants while on their way and on + their arrival in the ports, so as to secure them here a free choice of + avocations and places of settlement. A liberal disposition toward this + great national policy is manifested by most of the European States, and + ought to be reciprocated on our part by giving the immigrants effective + national protection. I regard our immigrants as one of the principal + replenishing streams which are appointed by Providence to repair the + ravages of internal war and its wastes of national strength and health. + All that is necessary is to secure the flow of that stream in its + present fullness, and to that end the Government must in every way make + it manifest that it neither needs nor designs to impose involuntary + military service upon those who come from other lands to cast their lot + in our country. +</p> +<p> + The financial affairs of the Government have been successfully + administered during the last year. The legislation of the last session + of Congress has beneficially affected the revenues, although sufficient + time has not yet elapsed to experience the full effect of several of the + provisions of the acts of Congress imposing increased taxation. +</p> +<p> + The receipts during the year from all sources, upon the basis of + warrants signed by the Secretary of the Treasury, including loans and + the balance in the Treasury on the 1st day of July, 1863, were + $1,394,796,007.62, and the aggregate disbursements, upon the same basis, + were $1,298,056,101.89, leaving a balance in the Treasury, as shown by + warrants, of $96,739,905.73. +</p> +<p> + Deduct from these amounts the amount of the principal of the public debt + redeemed and the amount of issues in substitution therefor, and the + actual cash operations of the Treasury were: Receipts, $884,076,646.57; + disbursements, $865,234,087.86; which leaves a cash balance in the + Treasury of $18,842,558,71. +</p> +<p> + Of the receipts there were derived from customs $102,316,152.99, from + lands $588,333.29, from direct taxes $475,648.96, from internal revenue + $109,741,134.10, from miscellaneous sources $47,511,448.10, and from + loans applied to actual expenditures, including former balance, + $623,443,929.13. +</p> +<p> + There were disbursed for the civil service $27,505,599.46, for pensions + and Indians $7,517,930.97, for the War Department $690,791,842.97, for + the Navy Department $85,733,292.77, for interest on the public debt + $53,685,421.69, making an aggregate of $865,234,087.86 and leaving a + balance in the Treasury of $18,842,558.71, as before stated. +</p> +<p> + For the actual receipts and disbursements for the first quarter and the + estimated receipts and disbursements for the three remaining quarters of + the current fiscal year, and the general operations of the Treasury in + detail, I refer you to the report of the Secretary of the Treasury. I + concur with him in the opinion that the proportion of moneys required to + meet the expenses consequent upon the war derived from taxation should + be still further increased; and I earnestly invite your attention to + this subject, to the end that there may be such additional legislation + as shall be required to meet the just expectations of the Secretary. +</p> +<p> + The public debt on the 1st day of July last, as appears by the books of + the Treasury, amounted to $1,740,690,489.49. Probably, should the war + continue for another year, that amount may be increased by not far from + five hundred millions. Held, as it is, for the most part by our own + people, it has become a substantial branch of national, though private, + property. For obvious reasons the more nearly this property can be + distributed among all the people the better. To favor such general + distribution, greater inducements to become owners might, perhaps, with + good effect and without injury be presented to persons of limited means. + With this view I suggest whether it might not be both competent and + expedient for Congress to provide that a limited amount of some future + issue of public securities might be held by any <i>bona fide</i> purchaser + exempt from taxation and from seizure for debt, under such restrictions + and limitations as might be necessary to guard against abuse of so + important a privilege. This would enable every prudent person to set + aside a small annuity against a possible day of want. +</p> +<p> + Privileges like these would render the possession of such securities to + the amount limited most desirable to every person of small means who + might be able to save enough for the purpose. The great advantage of + citizens being creditors as well as debtors with relation to the public + debt is obvious. Men readily perceive that they can not be much + oppressed by a debt which they owe to themselves. +</p> +<p> + The public debt on the 1st day of July last, although somewhat exceeding + the estimate of the Secretary of the Treasury made to Congress at the + commencement of the last session, falls short of the estimate of that + officer made in the preceding December as to its probable amount at the + beginning of this year by the sum of $3,995,097.31. This fact exhibits a + satisfactory condition and conduct of the operations of the Treasury. +</p> +<p> + The national banking system is proving to be acceptable to capitalists + and to the people. On the 25th day of November 584 national banks had + been organized, a considerable number of which were conversions from + State banks. Changes from State systems to the national system are + rapidly taking place, and it is hoped that very soon there will be in + the United States no banks of issue not authorized by Congress and no + bank-note circulation not secured by the Government. That the Government + and the people will derive great benefit from this change in the banking + systems of the country can hardly be questioned. The national system + will create a reliable and permanent influence in support of the + national credit and protect the people against losses in the use of + paper money. Whether or not any further legislation is advisable for the + suppression of State-bank issues it will be for Congress to determine. + It seems quite clear that the Treasury can not be satisfactorily + conducted unless the Government can exercise a restraining power over + the bank-note circulation of the country. +</p> +<p> + The report of the Secretary of War and the accompanying documents will + detail the campaigns of the armies in the field since the date of the + last annual message, and also the operations of the several + administrative bureaus of the War Department during the last year. It + will also specify the measures deemed essential for the national defense + and to keep up and supply the requisite military force. +</p> +<p> + The report of the Secretary of the Navy presents a comprehensive and + satisfactory exhibit of the affairs of that Department and of the naval + service. It is a subject of congratulation and laudable pride to our + countrymen that a Navy of such vast proportions has been organized in so + brief a period and conducted with so much efficiency and success. +</p> +<p> + The general exhibit of the Navy, including vessels under construction on + the 1st of December, 1864, shows a total of 671 vessels, carrying 4,610 + guns, and of 510,396 tons, being an actual increase during the year, + over and above all losses by shipwreck or in battle, of 83 vessels, 167 + guns, and 42,427 tons. +</p> +<p> + The total number of men at this time in the naval service, including + officers, is about 51,000. +</p> +<p> + There have been captured by the Navy during the year 324 vessels, and + the whole number of naval captures since hostilities commenced is 1,379, + of which 267 are steamers. +</p> +<p> + The gross proceeds arising from the sale of condemned prize property + thus far reported amount to $14,396,250.51. A large amount of such + proceeds is still under adjudication and yet to be reported. +</p> +<p> + The total expenditure of the Navy Department of every description, + including the cost of the immense squadrons that have been called into + existence from the 4th of March, 1861, to the 1st of November, 1864, is + $238,647,262.35. +</p> +<p> + Your favorable consideration is invited to the various recommendations + of the Secretary of the Navy, especially in regard to a navy-yard and + suitable establishment for the construction and repair of iron vessels + and the machinery and armature for our ships, to which reference was + made in my last annual message. +</p> +<p> + Your attention is also invited to the views expressed in the report in + relation to the legislation of Congress at its last session in respect + to prize on our inland waters. +</p> +<p> + I cordially concur in the recommendation of the Secretary as to the + propriety of creating the new rank of vice-admiral in our naval service. +</p> +<p> + Your attention is invited to the report of the Postmaster-General for a + detailed account of the operations and financial condition of the + Post-Office Department. +</p> +<p> + The postal revenues for the year ending June 30, 1864, amounted to + $12,438,253.78 and the expenditures to $12,644,786.20, the excess of + expenditures over receipts being $206,652.42. +</p> +<p> + The views presented by the Postmaster-General on the subject of special + grants by the Government in aid of the establishment of new lines of + ocean mail steamships and the policy he recommends for the development + of increased commercial intercourse with adjacent and neighboring + countries should receive the careful consideration of Congress. +</p> +<p> + It is of noteworthy interest that the steady expansion of population, + improvement, and governmental institutions over the new and unoccupied + portions of our country have scarcely been checked, much less impeded or + destroyed, by our great civil war, which at first glance would seem to + have absorbed almost the entire energies of the nation. +</p> +<p> + The organization and admission of the State of Nevada has been completed + in conformity with law, and thus our excellent system is firmly + established in the mountains, which once seemed a barren and + uninhabitable waste between the Atlantic States and those which have + grown up on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. +</p> +<p> + The Territories of the Union are generally in a condition of prosperity + and rapid growth. Idaho and Montana, by reason of their great distance + and the interruption of communication with them by Indian hostilities, + have been only partially organized; but it is understood that these + difficulties are about to disappear, which will permit their + governments, like those of the others, to go into speedy and full + operation. +</p> +<p> + As intimately connected with and promotive of this material growth of + the nation, I ask the attention of Congress to the valuable information + and important recommendations relating to the public lands, Indian + affairs, the Pacific Railroad, and mineral discoveries contained in the + report of the Secretary of the Interior which is herewith transmitted, + and which report also embraces the subjects of patents, pensions, and + other topics of public interest pertaining to his Department. +</p> +<p> + The quantity of public land disposed of during the five quarters ending + on the 30th of September last was 4,221,342 acres, of which 1,538,614 + acres were entered under the homestead law. The remainder was located + with military land warrants, agricultural scrip certified to States for + railroads, and sold for cash. The cash received from sales and location + fees was $1,019,446. +</p> +<p> + The income from sales during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1864, was + $678,007.21, against $136,077.95 received during the preceding year. The + aggregate number of acres surveyed during the year has been equal to the + quantity disposed of, and there is open to settlement about 133,000,000 + acres of surveyed land. +</p> +<p> + The great enterprise of connecting the Atlantic with the Pacific States + by railways and telegraph lines has been entered upon with a vigor that + gives assurance of success, notwithstanding the embarrassments arising + from the prevailing high prices of materials and labor. The route of the + main line of the road has been definitely located for 100 miles westward + from the initial point at Omaha City, Nebr., and a preliminary location + of the Pacific Railroad of California has been made from Sacramento + eastward to the great bend of the Truckee River in Nevada. +</p> +<p> + Numerous discoveries of gold, silver, and cinnabar mines have been added + to the many heretofore known, and the country occupied by the Sierra + Nevada and Rocky mountains and the subordinate ranges now teems with + enterprising labor, which is richly remunerative. It is believed that + the product of the mines of precious metals in that region has during + the year reached, if not exceeded, one hundred millions in value. +</p> +<p> + It was recommended in my last annual message that our Indian system be + remodeled. Congress at its last session, acting upon the recommendation, + did provide for reorganizing the system in California, and it is + believed that under the present organization the management of the + Indians there will be attended with reasonable success. Much yet remains + to be done to provide for the proper government of the Indians in other + parts of the country, to render it secure for the advancing settler, and + to provide for the welfare of the Indian. The Secretary reiterates his + recommendations, and to them the attention of Congress is invited. +</p> +<p> + The liberal provisions made by Congress for paying pensions to invalid + soldiers and sailors of the Republic and to the widows, orphans, and + dependent mothers of those who have fallen in battle or died of disease + contracted or of wounds received in the service of their country have + been diligently administered. There have been added to the pension rolls + during the year ending the 30th day of June last the names of 16,770 + invalid soldiers and of 271 disabled seamen, making the present number + of army invalid pensioners 22,767 and of navy invalid pensioners 712. +</p> +<p> + Of widows, orphans, and mothers 22,198 have been placed on the army + pension rolls and 248 on the navy rolls. The present number of army + pensioners of this class is 25,433 and of navy pensioners 793. At the + beginning of the year the number of Revolutionary pensioners was 1,430. + Only 12 of them were soldiers, of whom 7 have since died. The remainder + are those who under the law receive pensions because of relationship to + Revolutionary soldiers. During the year ending the 30th of June, 1864, + $4,504,616.92 have been paid to pensioners of all classes. +</p> +<p> + I cheerfully commend to your continued patronage the benevolent + institutions of the District of Columbia which have hitherto been + established or fostered by Congress, and respectfully refer for + information concerning them and in relation to the Washington Aqueduct, + the Capitol, and other matters of local interest to the report of the + Secretary. +</p> +<p> + The Agricultural Department, under the supervision of its present + energetic and faithful head, is rapidly commending itself to the great + and vital interest it was created to advance. It is peculiarly the + people's Department, in which they feel more directly concerned than in + any other. I commend it to the continued attention and fostering care of + Congress. +</p> +<p> + The war continues. Since the last annual message all the important lines + and positions then occupied by our forces have been maintained and our + arms have steadily advanced, thus liberating the regions left in rear, + so that Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, and parts of other States have + again produced reasonably fair crops. +</p> +<p> + The most remarkable feature in the military operations of the year is + General Sherman's attempted march of 300 miles directly through the + insurgent region. It tends to show a great increase of our relative + strength that our General in Chief should feel able to confront and hold + in check every active force of the enemy, and yet to detach a + well-appointed large army to move on such an expedition. The result not + yet being known, conjecture in regard to it is not here indulged. +</p> +<p> + Important movements have also occurred during the year to the effect of + molding society for durability in the Union. Although short of complete + success, it is much in the right direction that 12,000 citizens in each + of the States of Arkansas and Louisiana have organized loyal State + governments, with free constitutions, and are earnestly struggling to + maintain and administer them. The movements in the same direction, more + extensive though less definite, in Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee + should not be overlooked. But Maryland presents the example of complete + success. Maryland is secure to liberty and union for all the future. + The genius of rebellion will no more claim Maryland. Like another foul + spirit being driven out, it may seek to tear her, but it will woo her + no more. +</p> +<p> + At the last session of Congress a proposed amendment of the Constitution + abolishing slavery throughout the United States passed the Senate, but + failed for lack of the requisite two-thirds vote in the House of + Representatives. Although the present is the same Congress and nearly + the same members, and without questioning the wisdom or patriotism of + those who stood in opposition, I venture to recommend the + reconsideration and passage of the measure at the present session. Of + course the abstract question is not changed; but an intervening election + shows almost certainly that the next Congress will pass the measure if + this does not. Hence there is only a question of <i>time</i> as to when the + proposed amendment will go to the States for their action. And as it is + to so go at all events, may we not agree that the sooner the better? It + is not claimed that the election has imposed a duty on members to change + their views or their votes any further than, as an additional element to + be considered, their judgment may be affected by it. It is the voice of + the people now for the first time heard upon the question. In a great + national crisis like ours unanimity of action among those seeking a + common end is very desirable—almost indispensable. And yet no approach + to such unanimity is attainable unless some deference shall be paid to + the will of the majority simply because it is the will of the majority. + In this case the common end is the maintenance of the Union, and among + the means to secure that end such will, through the election, is most + clearly declared in favor of such constitutional amendment. +</p> +<p> + The most reliable indication of public purpose in this country is + derived through our popular elections. Judging by the recent canvass + and its result, the purpose of the people within the loyal States to + maintain the integrity of the Union was never more firm nor more nearly + unanimous than now. The extraordinary calmness and good order with which + the millions of voters met and mingled at the polls give strong + assurance of this. Not only all those who supported the Union ticket, so + called, but a great majority of the opposing party also may be fairly + claimed to entertain and to be actuated by the same purpose. It is an + unanswerable argument to this effect that no candidate for any office + whatever, high or low, has ventured to seek votes on the avowal that he + was for giving up the Union. There have been much impugning of motives + and much heated controversy as to the proper means and best mode of + advancing the Union cause, but on the distinct issue of Union or no + Union the politicians have shown their instinctive knowledge that there + is no diversity among the people. In affording the people the fair + opportunity of showing one to another and to the world this firmness + and unanimity of purpose, the election has been of vast value to the + national cause. +</p> +<p> + The election has exhibited another fact not less valuable to be + known—the fact that we do not approach exhaustion in the most important + branch of national resources, that of living men. While it is melancholy + to reflect that the war has filled so many graves and carried mourning + to so many hearts, it is some relief to know that, compared with the + surviving, the fallen have been so few. While corps and divisions and + brigades and regiments have formed and fought and dwindled and gone out + of existence, a great majority of the men who composed them are still + living. The same is true of the naval service. The election returns + prove this. So many voters could not else be found. The States regularly + holding elections, both now and four years ago, to wit, California, + Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, + Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, + New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, + West Virginia, and Wisconsin, cast 3,982,011 votes now, against + 3,870,222 cast then, showing an aggregate now of 3,982,011. To this is + to be added 33,762 cast now in the new States of Kansas and Nevada, + which States did not vote in 1860, thus swelling the aggregate to + 4,015,773 and the net increase during the three years and a half + of war to 145,551. A table is appended showing particulars. To this + again should be added the number of all soldiers in the field from + Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Delaware, Indiana, Illinois, + and California, who by the laws of those States could not vote away from + their homes, and which number can not be less than 90,000. Nor yet is + this all. The number in organized Territories is triple now what it + was four years ago, while thousands, white and black, join us as + the national arms press back the insurgent lines. So much is shown, + affirmatively and negatively, by the election. It is not material to + inquire <i>how</i> the increase has been produced or to show that it would + have been <i>greater</i> but for the war, which is probably true. The + important fact remains demonstrated that we have <i>more</i> men <i>now</i> than + we had when the war <i>began</i>; that we are not exhausted nor in process of + exhaustion; that we are <i>gaining</i> strength and may if need be maintain + the contest indefinitely. This as to men. Material resources are now + more complete and abundant than ever. +</p> +<p> + The national resources, then, are unexhausted, and, as we believe, + inexhaustible. The public purpose to reestablish and maintain the + national authority is unchanged, and, as we believe, unchangeable. + The manner of continuing the effort remains to choose. On careful + consideration of all the evidence accessible it seems to me that no + attempt at negotiation with the insurgent leader could result in any + good. He would accept nothing short of severance of the Union, precisely + what we will not and can not give. His declarations to this effect are + explicit and oft repeated. He does not attempt to deceive us. He affords + us no excuse to deceive ourselves. He can not voluntarily reaccept the + Union; we can not voluntarily yield it. Between him and us the issue is + distinct, simple, and inflexible. It is an issue which can only be tried + by war and decided by victory. If we yield, we are beaten; if the + Southern people fail him, he is beaten. Either way it would be the + victory and defeat following war. What is true, however, of him who + heads the insurgent cause is not necessarily true of those who follow. + Although he can not reaccept the Union, they can. Some of them, we know, + already desire peace and reunion. The number of such may increase. They + can at any moment have peace simply by laying down their arms and + submitting to the national authority under the Constitution. After so + much the Government could not, if it would, maintain war against them. + The loyal people would not sustain or allow it. If questions should + remain, we would adjust them by the peaceful means of legislation, + conference, courts, and votes, operating only in constitutional and + lawful channels. Some certain, and other possible, questions are and + would be beyond the Executive power to adjust; as, for instance, the + admission of members into Congress and whatever might require the + appropriation of money. The Executive power itself would be greatly + diminished by the cessation of actual war. Pardons and remissions of + forfeitures, however, would still be within Executive control. In what + spirit and temper this control would be exercised can be fairly judged + of by the past. +</p> +<p> + A year ago general pardon and amnesty, upon specified terms, were + offered to all except certain designated classes, and it was at + the same time made known that the excepted classes were still within + contemplation of special clemency. During the year many availed + themselves of the general provision, and many more would, only that + the signs of bad faith in some led to such precautionary measures as + rendered the practical process less easy and certain. During the same + time also special pardons have been granted to individuals of the + excepted classes, and no voluntary application has been denied. Thus + practically the door has been for a full year open to all except such + as were not in condition to make free choice; that is, such as were in + custody or under constraint. It is still so open to all. But the time + may come, probably will come, when public duty shall demand that it be + closed and that in lieu more rigorous measures than heretofore shall + be adopted. +</p> +<p> + In presenting the abandonment of armed resistance to the national + authority on the part of the insurgents as the only indispensable + condition to ending the war on the part of the Government, I retract + nothing heretofore said as to slavery. I repeat the declaration made + a year ago, that "while I remain in my present position I shall not + attempt to retract or modify the emancipation proclamation, nor shall + I return to slavery any person who is free by the terms of that + proclamation or by any of the acts of Congress." If the people should, + by whatever mode or means, make it an Executive duty to reenslave such + persons, another, and not I, must be their instrument to perform it. +</p> +<p> + In stating a single condition of peace I mean simply to say that the war + will cease on the part of the Government whenever it shall have ceased + on the part of those who began it. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + <i>Table showing the aggregate votes in the States named at the + Presidential elections respectively, in 1860 and 1864</i>. +</center> + +<table summary="Voting data by state" +cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" class="t" align="center" width="100%"> +<tr><td width="33%"> +<b>State.</b> </td><td width="33%" align="right"><b>1860.</b></td><td width="33%" align="right"><b>1864.</b></td></tr> +<tr><td> +California </td><td align="right">118,840 </td><td align="right">* 110,000</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Connecticut </td><td align="right">77,246 </td><td align="right">86,616</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Delaware </td><td align="right"> 16,039</td><td align="right">16,924</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Illinois </td><td align="right">339,693</td><td align="right">348,235</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Indiana</td><td align="right">272,143</td><td align="right">280,645</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Iowa </td><td align="right">128,331</td><td align="right">143,331</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Kentucky </td><td align="right">146,216</td><td align="right">* 91,300</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Maine </td><td align="right">97,918</td><td align="right">115,141</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Maryland</td><td align="right">92,502 </td><td align="right">72,703</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Massachusetts</td><td align="right">169,533</td><td align="right">175,487</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Michigan </td><td align="right">154,747 </td><td align="right">162,413</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Minnesota </td><td align="right">34,799</td><td align="right">42,534</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Missouri </td><td align="right">165,538 </td><td align="right">* 90,000</td></tr> +<tr><td> +New Hampshire </td><td align="right">65,953 </td><td align="right">69,111</td></tr> +<tr><td> +New Jersey </td><td align="right">121,125</td><td align="right">128,680</td></tr> +<tr><td> +New York </td><td align="right">675,156</td><td align="right">730,664</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Ohio </td><td align="right">442,441</td><td align="right">470,745</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Oregon</td><td align="right">14,410</td><td align="right">† 14,410</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Pennsylvania </td><td align="right">476,442</td><td align="right">572,697</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Rhode Island</td><td align="right">19,931 </td><td align="right">22,187</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Vermont </td><td align="right">42,844 </td><td align="right">55,811</td></tr> +<tr><td> +West Virginia </td><td align="right">46,195 </td><td align="right">33,874</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Wisconsin</td><td align="right">152,180</td><td align="right">148,513</td></tr> +<tr><td> + </td><td align="right"><hr> </td><td align="right"><hr></td></tr> +<tr><td> + </td><td align="right">3,870,222</td><td align="right">3,982,011</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Kansas</td><td align="right"> </td><td align="right">17,234</td></tr> +<tr><td> +Nevada </td><td align="right"></td><td align="right">16,528</td></tr> +<tr><td> + </td><td align="right"> </td><td align="right"><hr></td></tr> +<tr><td> + </td><td align="right"></td><td align="right">33,762</td></tr> +<tr><td> + </td><td align="right"> </td><td align="right">3,982,011</td></tr> +<tr><td> +</td><td align="right"></td><td align="right"></td><td align="right"><hr></td></tr> +<tr><td> + </td><td align="right">Total</td><td align="right">4,015,773</td></tr> +<tr><td> + </td><td align="right"> </td><td align="right">3,870,222</td></tr> +<tr><td> + </td><td align="right"> </td><td align="right"><hr></td></tr> +<tr><td> +</td><td align="right">Net Increase</td><td align="right">145,551</td></tr> +<tr><td colspan="3"> +<hr class="full"> +</td></tr> +<tr><td colspan="3" align="center"> + [* Nearly.] [† Estimated.]</td></tr> +</table> + +<a name="2H_4_0032"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + SPECIAL MESSAGES. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON CITY, <i>December 5, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend + that Captain John A. Winslow, United States Navy, receive a vote of + thanks from Congress for the skill and gallantry exhibited by him in the + brilliant action, while in command of the United States steamer + <i>Kearsarge</i>, which led to the total destruction of the piratical craft + <i>Alabama</i> on the 19th of June, 1864—a vessel superior in tonnage, + superior in number of guns, and superior in number of crew. +</p> +<p> + This recommendation is specially made in order to comply with the + requirements of the ninth section of the aforesaid act, which is in the + following words, namely: +</p> +<p> + That any line officer of the Navy or Marine Corps may be advanced one + grade if upon recommendation of the President by name he receives the + thanks of Congress for highly distinguished conduct in conflict with the + enemy or for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON CITY, <i>December 5, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend + that Lieutenant William B. Cushing, United States Navy, receive a vote + of thanks from Congress for his important, gallant, and perilous + achievement in destroying the rebel ironclad steamer <i>Albemarle</i> on the + night of the 27th of October, 1864, at Plymouth, N.C. +</p> +<p> + The destruction of so formidable a vessel, which had resisted the + continued attacks of a number of our vessels on former occasions, is an + important event touching our future naval and military operations, and + would reflect honor on any officer, and redounds to the credit of this + young officer and the few brave comrades who assisted in this successful + and daring undertaking. +</p> +<p> + This recommendation is specially made in order to comply with the + requirements of the ninth section of the aforesaid act, which is in the + following words, namely: +</p> +<p> + That any line officer of the Navy or Marine Corps may be advanced one + grade if upon recommendation of the President by name he receives the + thanks of Congress for highly distinguished conduct in conflict with the + enemy or for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON CITY, <i>December 5, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + By virtue of the authority contained in the sixth section of the act of + 21st April, 1864, which enacts "that any officer in the naval service, + by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, may be advanced not + exceeding thirty numbers in his own grade for distinguished conduct in + battle or extraordinary heroism," I recommend Commander William H. + Macomb, United States Navy, for advancement in his grade ten numbers, to + take rank next after Commander William Ronckendorff, for distinguished + conduct in the capture of the town of Plymouth, N.C., with its + batteries, ordnance stores, etc., on the 31st October, 1864, by a + portion of the naval division under his command. The affair was executed + in a most creditable manner. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON CITY, <i>December 5, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + By virtue of the authority contained in the sixth section of the act of + 21st April, 1864, which enacts "that any officer in the naval service, + by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, may be advanced not + exceeding thirty numbers in his own grade for distinguished conduct in + battle or extraordinary heroism," I recommend Lieutenant-Commander James + S. Thornton, United States Navy, the executive officer of the United + States steamer <i>Kearsarge</i>, for advancement in his grade ten numbers, to + take rank next after lieutenant-Commander William D. Whiting, for his + good conduct and faithful discharge of his duties in the brilliant + action with the rebel steamer <i>Alabama</i>, which led to the destruction of + that vessel on the 19th June, 1864. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 7, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the Senate's resolution of yesterday, requesting + information in regard to aid furnished to the rebellion by British + subjects, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State and the + documents by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 13, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for consideration with a view to ratification, + "a treaty of friendship, commerce, and navigation between the United + States of America and the Republic of Honduras," signed by their + respective plenipotentiaries at Comayagua on the 4th of July (1864) + last. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>December 13, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to the Senate, for consideration with a view to ratification, + "a treaty of amity, commerce, and navigation, and for the extradition of + fugitive criminals, between the United States of America and the + Republic of Hayti, signed by their respective plenipotentiaries at Port + an Prince on the 3d of November" last. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 7, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of two treaties between the United States + and Belgium, for the extinguishment of the Scheldt dues, etc., concluded + on the 20th of May, 1863, and 20th of July, 1863, respectively, the + ratifications of which were exchanged at Brussels on the 24th of June + last; and I recommend an appropriation to carry into effect the + provisions thereof relative to the payment of the proportion of the + United States toward the capitalization of the said dues. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, January 9, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> +Hon. SCHUYLER COLFAX,<br> + <i>Speaker House of Representatives</i>. +</p> +<p> + SIR: I transmit herewith the letter of the Secretary of War, with + accompanying report of the Adjutant-General, in reply to the resolution + of the House of Representatives dated December 7, 1864, requesting me + "to communicate to the House the report made by Colonel Thomas M. Key of + an interview between himself and General Howell Cobb on the 14th day of + June, 1862, on the bank of the Chickahominy, on the subject of the + exchange of prisoners of war." +</p> +<p> + I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 9, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 15th ultimo, + requesting information concerning an arrangement limiting the naval + armament on the Lakes, I transmit a report of this date from the + Secretary of State, to whom the resolution was referred. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, January 17, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, + a treaty concluded at the Isabella Indian Reservation, in the State of + Michigan, on the 18th day of October, 1864, between H.J. Alvord, special + commissioner, and D.C. Leach, United States Indian agent, acting as + commissioner on the part of the United States, and the chiefs and + headmen of the Chippewas of Saginaw, Swan Creek, and Black River, in the + State of Michigan, parties to the treaty of August 2, 1855, with + amendments. +</p> +<p> + A letter of the Secretary of the Interior of the 12th instant and a copy + of a communication of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs of the 22d + ultimo, with inclosure, accompany the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>January 31, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> +Hon. H. HAMLIN,<br> + <i>President of the Senate</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith a communication from the Secretary of War, covering + papers bearing on the arrest and imprisonment of Colonel Richard T. + Jacobs, lieutenant-governor of the State of Kentucky, and Colonel Frank + Wolford, one of the Presidential electors of that State, requested by + resolution of the Senate dated December 20, 1864. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 4, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 13th ultimo, + requesting information upon the present condition of Mexico and the case + of the French war transport steamer <i>Rhine</i>, I transmit a report from + the Secretary of State and the papers by which it was accompanied. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 8, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of a note of the 4th instant addressed by + J. Hume Burnley, esq., Her Britannic Majesty's chargé d'affaires, to the + Secretary of State, relative to a sword which it is proposed to present + to Captain Henry S. Stellwagen, commanding the United States frigate + <i>Constitution</i>, as a mark of gratitude for his services to the British + brigantine <i>Mersey</i>. The expediency of sanctioning the acceptance of the + gift is submitted to your consideration. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>February 8, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Honorable the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + The joint resolution entitled "Joint resolution declaring certain States + not entitled to representation in the electoral college" has been signed + by the Executive in deference to the view of Congress implied in its + passage and presentation to him. In his own view, however, the two + Houses of Congress, convened under the twelfth article of the + Constitution, have complete power to exclude from counting all electoral + votes deemed by them to be illegal, and it is not competent for the + Executive to defeat or obstruct that power by a veto, as would be the + case if his action were at all essential in the matter. He disclaims all + right of the Executive to interfere in any way in the matter of + canvassing or counting electoral votes, and he also disclaims that by + signing said resolution he has expressed any opinion on the recitals of + the preamble or any judgment of his own upon the subject of the + resolution. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 10, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 8th instant, requesting + information concerning recent conversations or communications with + insurgents under Executive sanction, I transmit a report from the + Secretary of State, to whom the resolution was referred. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>February 10, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Honorable the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + In response to your resolution of the 8th instant, requesting + information in relation to a conference recently held in Hampton Roads, + I have the honor to state that on the day of the date I gave Francis P. + Blair, sr., a card, written on as follows, to wit: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + December 28, 1864. +</p><p class="q"> + Allow the bearer, F.P. Blair, sr., to pass our lines, go South, + and return. +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + That at the time I was informed that Mr. Blair sought the card as a + means of getting to Richmond, Va., but he was given no authority to + speak or act for the Government, nor was I informed of anything he would + say or do on his own account or otherwise. Afterwards Mr. Blair told me + that he had been to Richmond and had seen Mr. Jefferson Davis; and he + (Mr. B.) at the same time left with me a manuscript letter, as follows, + to wit: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + Richmond, Va., <i>January 12, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p class="q"> + F.P. BLAIR, Esq. +</p><p class="q"> + SIR: I have deemed it proper, and probably desirable to you, to give + you in this form the substance of remarks made by me, to be repeated + by you to President Lincoln, etc., etc. +</p><p class="q"> + I have no disposition to find obstacles in forms, and am willing, now + as heretofore, to enter into negotiations for the restoration of peace, + and am ready to send a commission whenever I have reason to suppose it + will be received, or to receive a commission if the United States + Government shall choose to send one. That notwithstanding the rejection + of our former offers, I would, if you could promise that a commissioner, + minister, or other agent would be received, appoint one immediately, and + renew the effort to enter into conference with a view to secure peace to + the two countries. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + Yours, etc.,<br> + JEFFERSON DAVIS. +</p> +<p> + Afterwards, and with the view that it should be shown to Mr. Davis, I + wrote and delivered to Mr. Blair a letter, as follows, to wit: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 18, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p class="q"> + F.P. BLAIR, Esq. +</p><p class="q"> + SIR: Your having shown me Mr. Davis's letter to you of the 12th instant, + you may say to him that I have constantly been, am now, and shall + continue ready to receive any agent whom he or any other influential + person now resisting the national authority may informally send to me + with the view of securing peace to the people of our one common country. +</p><p class="q"> + Yours, etc., +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + Afterwards Mr. Blair dictated for and authorized me to make an entry on + the back of my retained copy of the letter last above recited, which + entry is as follows: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + JANUARY 28, 1865. +</p><p class="q"> + Today Mr. Blair tells me that on the 21st instant he delivered to Mr. + Davis the original of which the within is a copy, and left it with him; + that at the time of delivering it Mr. Davis read it over twice in Mr. + Blair's presence, at the close of which he (Mr. Blair) remarked that the + part about "our one common country" related to the part of Mr. Davis's + letter about "the two countries," to which Mr. Davis replied that he so + understood it. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + Afterwards the Secretary of War placed in my hands the following + telegram, indorsed by him, as appears: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,<br> + <i>War Department</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + The following telegram received at Washington January 29, 1865, from + headquarters Army of James, 6.30 p.m., January 29, 1865: +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + "<i>Secretary of War</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + "The following dispatch just received from Major-General Parke, who + refers it to me for my action. I refer it to you in Lieutenant-General + Grant's absence. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "E.O.C. ORD, <i>Major-General, Commanding."</i> +</p> +<p> </p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + 'HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF POTOMAC,<br> + '<i>January 29, 1865-4 p.m.</i> +</p><p class="q"> + 'Major-General E.O.C. ORD,<br> + <i>'Headquarters Army of James</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + 'The following dispatch is forwarded to you for your action. Since + I have no knowledge of General Grant's having had any understanding of + this kind, I refer the matter to you as the ranking officer present in + the two armies. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + 'JNO. G. PARKE, <i>Major-General, Commanding.'</i> +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + 'FROM HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, <i>29th.</i> +</p><p class="q"> + 'Major-General JNO. G. PARKE,<br> + '<i>Headquarters Army of Potomac</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + 'Alexander H. Stephens, R.M.T. Hunter, and J.A. Campbell desire to + cross my lines, in accordance with an understanding claimed to exist + with lieutenant-General Grant, on their way to Washington as peace + commissioners. Shall they be admitted? They desire an early answer, to + come through immediately. Would like to reach City Point tonight if they + can. If they can not do this, they would like to come through at 10 a.m. + tomorrow morning. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + 'O.B. WILCOX,<br> + '<i>Major-General, Commanding Ninth Corps.</i>' +</p> +<p> </p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "January 29—8.30 p.m. +</p><p class="q"> + "Respectfully referred to the President for such instructions as he + may be pleased to give. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + "<i>Secretary of War</i>." +</p> +<p> + It appears that about the time of placing the foregoing telegram in my + hands the Secretary of War dispatched General Ord as follows, to wit: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington City, January 29, 1865—10 p.m.</i><br> + (Sent at 2 a.m. 30th.) +</p><p class="q"> + Major-General ORD. +</p><p class="q"> + SIR: This Department has no knowledge of any understanding by General + Grant to allow any person to come within his lines as commissioner of + any sort. You will therefore allow no one to come into your lines under + such character or profession until you receive the President's + instructions, to whom your telegram will be submitted for his + directions. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> + Afterwards, by my direction, the Secretary of War telegraphed General + Ord as follows, to wit: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., January 30, 1865—10.30 a.m.</i> +</p><p class="q"> + Major-General E.O.C. ORD,<br> + <i>Headquarters Army of the James</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + SIR: By direction of the President, you are instructed to inform + the three gentlemen, Messrs. Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell, that a + messenger will be dispatched to them at or near where they now are + without unnecessary delay. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> + Afterwards I prepared and put into the hands of Major Thomas T. Eckert + the following instructions and message: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, January 30, 1865</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + Major T.T. ECKERT. +</p><p class="q"> + SIR: You will proceed with the documents placed in your hands, and on + reaching General Ord will deliver him the letter addressed to him by + the Secretary of War; then, by General Ord's assistance, procure an + interview with Messrs. Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell, or any of them. + Deliver to him or them the paper on which your own letter is written. + Note on the copy which you retain the time of delivery and to whom + delivered. Receive their answer in writing, waiting a reasonable time + for it, and which, if it contain their decision to come through without + further condition, will be your warrant to ask General Ord to pass them + through, as directed in the letter of the Secretary of War to him. If by + their answer they decline to come, or propose other terms, do not have + them pass through. And this being your whole duty, return and report + to me. +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + CITY POINT, VA., <i>February 1, 1865</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + Messrs. ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS, J.A. CAMPBELL, and R.M.T. HUNTER. +</p><p class="q"> + GENTLEMEN: I am instructed by the President of the United States to + place this paper in your hands, with the information that if you pass + through the United States military lines it will be understood that you + do so for the purpose of an informal conference on the basis of the + letter a copy of which is on the reverse side of this sheet, and that if + you choose to pass on such understanding, and so notify me in writing, I + will procure the commanding general to pass you through the lines and to + Fortress Monroe under such military precautions as he may deem prudent, + and at which place you will be met in due time by some person or persons + for the purpose of such informal conference; and, further, that you + shall have protection, safe conduct, and safe return in all events. +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + THOMAS T. ECKERT,<br> + <i>Major and Aid-de-Camp</i>. +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + WASHINGTON, <i>January 18, 1865</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + F.P. BLAIR, Esq. +</p><p class="q"> + SIR: Your having shown me Mr. Davis's letter to you of the 12th instant, + you may say to him that I have constantly been, am now, and shall + continue ready to receive any agent whom he or any other influential + person now resisting the national authority may informally send to me + with the view of securing peace to the people of our one common country. +</p><p class="q"> + Yours, etc., +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + Afterwards, but before Major Eckert had departed, the following dispatch + was received from General Grant: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,<br> + <i>War Department</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + The following telegram received at Washington January 31, 1865, from + City Point, Va., 10.30 a.m., January 30, 1865: +</p><p class="q"> + "His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN,<br> + "<i>President of the United States</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + "The following communication was received here last evening: +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + 'PETERSBURG, VA., <i>January 30, 1865</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + 'Lieutenant-General U.S. GRANT,<br> + '<i>Commanding Armies United States</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + 'SIR: We desire to pass your lines under safe conduct, and to proceed to + Washington to hold a conference with President Lincoln upon the subject + of the existing war, and with a view of ascertaining upon what terms it + may be terminated, in pursuance of the course indicated by him in his + letter to Mr. Blair of January 18, 1865, of which we presume you have a + copy; and if not, we wish to see you in person, if convenient, and to + confer with you upon the subject. +</p><p class="q"> + 'Very respectfully, yours, +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + 'ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS.<br> + 'J.A. CAMPBELL.<br> + 'R.M.T. HUNTER.' +</p> +<p class="q"> + "I have sent directions to receive these gentlemen, and expect to have + them at my quarters this evening, awaiting your instructions. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "U.S. GRANT,<br> + "<i>Lieutenant-General, Commanding Armies United States </i>" +</p> +<p> + This, it will be perceived, transferred General Ord's agency in the + matter to General Grant. I resolved, however, to send Major Eckert + forward with his message, and accordingly telegraphed General Grant as + follows, to wit: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, January 31, 1865</i>.<br> + (Sent at 1.30 p.m.) +</p><p class="q"> + Lieutenant-General GRANT,<br> + <i>City Point, Va.</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + A messenger is coming to you on the business contained in your dispatch, + Detain the gentlemen in comfortable quarters until he arrives, and then + act upon the message he brings as far as applicable, it having been made + up to pass through General Ord's hands, and when the gentlemen were + supposed to be beyond our lines. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + When Major Eckert departed, he bore with him a letter of the Secretary + of War to General Grant, as follows, to wit: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., January 30, 1865</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + Lieutenant-General GRANT,<br> + <i>Commanding, etc.</i> +</p><p class="q"> + GENERAL: The President desires that you will please procure for the + bearer, Major Thomas T. Eckert, an interview with Messrs. Stephens, + Hunter, and Campbell, and if on his return to you he requests it pass + them through our lines to Fortress Monroe by such route and under such + military precautions as you may deem prudent, giving them protection and + comfortable quarters while there, and that you let none of this have any + effect upon your movements or plans. +</p><p class="q"> + By order of the President: +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> + Supposing the proper point to be then reached, I dispatched the + Secretary of State with the following instructions, Major Eckert, + however, going ahead of him: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, January 31, 1865</i>. +<p class="q"> + Hon. WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + You will proceed to Fortress Monroe, Va., there to meet and informally + confer with Messrs. Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell on the basis of my + letter to F.P. Blair, esq., of January 18, 1865, a copy of which you + have. +</p><p class="q"> + You will make known to them that three things are indispensable, to wit: +</p><p class="q"> + 1. The restoration of the national authority throughout all the States. +</p><p class="q"> + 2. No receding by the Executive of the United States on the slavery + question from the position assumed thereon in the late annual + message to Congress and in preceding documents. +</p><p class="q"> + 3. No cessation of hostilities short of an end of the war and the + disbanding of all forces hostile to the Government. +</p><p class="q"> + You will inform them that all propositions of theirs not inconsistent + with the above will be considered and passed upon in a spirit of + sincere liberality. You will hear all they may choose to say and report + it to me. +</p><p class="q"> + You will not assume to definitely consummate anything. +</p><p class="q"> + Yours, etc., +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + On the day of its date the following telegram was sent to General Grant: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., February 1, 1865</i>.<br> + (Sent at 9.30 a.m.) +</p><p class="q"> + Lieutenant-General GRANT,<br> + <i>City Point, Va.</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + Let nothing which is transpiring change, hinder, or delay your military + movements or Plans. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + Afterwards the following dispatch was received from General Grant: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,<br> + <i>War Department</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + The following telegram received at Washington 2.30 p.m. February 1, + 1865, from City Point, Va., February 1, 12.30 p.m., 1865: +</p><p class="q"> + "His Excellency A. LINCOLN,<br> + "<i>President United States</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + "Your dispatch received. There will be no armistice in consequence of + the presence of Mr. Stephens and others within our lines. The troops + are kept in readiness to move at the shortest notice if occasion + should justify it. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "U.S. GRANT, <i>Lieutenant-General."</i> +</p> +<p> + To notify Major Eckert that the Secretary of State would be at Fortress + Monroe, and to put them in communication, the following dispatch was + sent: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., February 1, 1865</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + Major T.T. ECKERT,<br> + <i>Care of General Grant, City Point, Va.</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + Call at Fortress Monroe and put yourself under direction of Mr. S., + whom you will find there. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + On the morning of the 2d instant the following telegrams were received + by me respectively from the Secretary of State and Major Eckert: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + FORT MONROE, VA., <i>February 1, 1865—11.30 p.m.</i> +</p><p class="q"> + The PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: +</p><p class="q"> + Arrived at 10 this evening. Richmond party not here. I remain here. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD. +</p> +<p> </p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + CITY POINT, VA., <i>February 1, 1865—10 p.m.</i> +</p><p class="q"> + His Excellency A. LINCOLN,<br> + <i>President of the United States</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + I have the honor to report the delivery of your communication and my + letter at 4.15 this afternoon, to which I received a reply at 6 p.m., + but not satisfactory. +</p> +<p> </p> +<p> + At 8 p.m. the following note, addressed to General Grant, was received: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "CITY POINT, VA., <i>February 1, 1865</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + "Lieutenant-General GRANT. +</p><p class="q"> + "SIR: We desire to go to Washington City to confer informally with the + President personally in reference to the matters mentioned in his letter + to Mr. Blair of the 18th January ultimo, without any personal compromise + on any question in the letter. We have the permission to do so from the + authorities in Richmond. +</p><p class="q"> + "Very respectfully, yours, +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "ALEX. H. STEPHENS.<br> + "R.M.T. HUNTER.<br> + "J.A. CAMPBELL." +</p><p class="q"> + At 9.30 p.m. I notified them that they could not proceed further unless + they complied with the terms expressed in my letter. The point of + meeting designated in the above note would not, in my opinion, be + insisted upon. Think Fort Monroe would be acceptable. Having complied + with my instructions, I will return to Washington tomorrow unless + otherwise ordered. +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + THOS. T. ECKERT, <i>Major, etc.</i> +</p> +<p> + On reading this dispatch of Major Eckert I was about to recall him and + the Secretary of State, when the following telegram of General Grant to + the Secretary of War was shown me: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,<br> + <i>War Department</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + The following telegram received at Washington 4.35 a.m. February 2, + 1865, from City Point, Va., February 1, 10.30 p.m., 1865: +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + "<i>Secretary of War</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + "Now that the interview between Major Eckert, under his written + instructions, and Mr. Stephens and party has ended, I will state + confidentially, but not officially to become a matter of record, that + I am convinced upon conversation with Messrs. Stephens and Hunter that + their intentions are good and their desire sincere to restore peace and + union. I have not felt myself at liberty to express even views of my + own or to account for my reticency. This has placed me in an awkward + position, which I could have avoided by not seeing them in the first + instance. I fear now their going back without any expression from anyone + in authority will have a bad influence. At the same time, I recognize + the difficulties in the way of receiving these informal commissioners + at this time, and do not know what to recommend. I am sorry, however, + that Mr. Lincoln can not have an interview with the two named in this + dispatch, if not all three now within our lines. Their letter to me was + all that the President's instructions contemplated to secure their safe + conduct if they had used the same language to Major Eckert. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "U.S. GRANT, <i>Lieutenant-General"</i> +</p> +<p> + This dispatch of General Grant changed my purpose, and accordingly I + telegraphed him and the Secretary of State, respectively, as follows: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., February 2, 1865</i>.<br> + (Sent at 9 a.m.) +</p><p class="q"> + Lieutenant-General GRANT,<br> + <i>City Point, Va.</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + Say to the gentlemen I will meet them personally at Fortress Monroe + as soon as I can get there. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., February 2, 1865</i>.<br> + (Sent at 9 a.m.) +</p><p class="q"> + Hon. WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Fortress Monroe, Va.</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + Induced by a dispatch from General Grant, I join you at Fort Monroe as + soon as I can come. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> + Before starting, the following dispatch was shown me. I proceeded, + nevertheless. +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,<br> + <i>War Department</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + The following telegram received at Washington February 2, 1865, from + City Point, Va., 9 a.m., February 2, 1865: +</p><p class="q"> + "Hon. WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + "<i>Secretary of State, Fort Monroe</i>: +</p><p class="q"> + "The gentlemen here have accepted the proposed terms, and will leave + for Fort Monroe at 9.30 a.m. +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "U.S. GRANT,<br> + "<i>Lieutenant-General."</i> +</p><p class="q"> + (Copy to Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washington.) +</p> +<p> + On the night of the 2d I reached Hampton Roads, found the Secretary of + State and Major Eckert on a steamer anchored offshore, and learned of + them that the Richmond gentlemen were on another steamer also anchored + offshore, in the Roads, and that the Secretary of State had not yet seen + or communicated with them. I ascertained that Major Eckert had literally + complied with his instructions, and I saw for the first time the answer + of the Richmond gentlemen to him, which in his dispatch to me of the 1st + he characterizes as "not satisfactory." That answer is as follows, to + wit: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + CITY POINT, VA., <i>February 1, 1865</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + THOMAS T. ECKERT,<br> + <i>Major and Aid-de-Camp</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + MAJOR: Your note, delivered by yourself this day, has been considered. + In reply we have to say that we were furnished with a copy of the letter + of President Lincoln to Francis P. Blair, esq., of the 18th of January + ultimo, another copy of which is appended to your note. +</p><p class="q"> + Our instructions are contained in a letter of which the following is + a copy: +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "Richmond, <i>January 28, 1865</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + "In conformity with the letter of Mr. Lincoln, of which the foregoing is + a copy, you are to proceed to Washington City for informal conference + with him upon the issues involved in the existing war, and for the + purpose of securing peace to the two countries. +</p><p class="q"> + 'With great respect, your obedient servant, +</p><p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + "JEFFERSON DAVIS." +</p> +<p class="q"> + The substantial object to be obtained by the informal conference is to + ascertain upon what terms the existing war can be terminated honorably. +</p> +<p class="q"> + Our instructions contemplate a personal interview between President + Lincoln and ourselves at Washington City, but with this explanation we + are ready to meet any person or persons that President Lincoln may + appoint at such place as he may designate. +</p> +<p class="q"> + Our earnest desire is that a just and honorable peace may be agreed + upon, and we are prepared to receive or to submit propositions which may + possibly lead to the attainment of that end. +</p> +<p class="q"> + Very respectfully, yours, +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS.<br> + R.M.T. HUNTER.<br> + JOHN A. CAMPBELL. +</p> +<p> + A note of these gentlemen, subsequently addressed to General Grant, has + already been given in Major Eckert's dispatch of the 1st instant. +</p> +<p> + I also here saw, for the first time, the following note addressed by the + Richmond gentlemen to Major Eckert: +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + CITY POINT, VA., <i>February 2, 1865</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + THOMAS T. ECKERT,<br> + <i>Major and Aid-de-Camp</i>. +</p><p class="q"> + MAJOR: In reply to your verbal statement that your instructions did not + allow you to alter the conditions upon which a passport could be given + to us, we say that we are willing to proceed to Fortress Monroe and + there to have an informal conference with any person or persons that + President Lincoln may appoint on the basis of his letter to Francis P. + Blair of the 18th of January ultimo, or upon any other terms or + conditions that he may hereafter propose not inconsistent with the + essential principles of self-government and popular rights, upon which + our institutions are founded. +</p><p class="q"> + It is our earnest wish to ascertain, after a free interchange of ideas + and information, upon what principles and terms, if any, a just and + honorable peace can be established without the further effusion of + blood, and to contribute our utmost efforts to accomplish such a result. +</p><p class="q"> + We think it better to add that in accepting your passport we are not to + be understood as committing ourselves to anything but to carry to this + informal conference the views and feelings above expressed. +</p><p class="q"> + Very respectfully, yours, etc., +</p> +<p class="q" style="text-align: right;"> + ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS.<br> + J.A. CAMPBELL.<br> + R.M.T. HUNTER. +</p> +<p> + Note.—The above communication was delivered to me at Fort Monroe at + 4.30 p.m. February 2 by Lieutenant-Colonel Babcock, of General Grant's + staff. +</p> +<p class="q"> +THOMAS T. ECKERT,<br> + <i>Major and Aid-de-Camp</i>. +</p> +<p class="q"> + On the morning of the 3d the three gentlemen, Messrs. Stephens, Hunter, + and Campbell, came aboard of our steamer and had an interview with the + Secretary of State and myself of several hours' duration. No question of + preliminaries to the meeting was then and there made or mentioned; no + other person was present; no papers were exchanged or produced; and it + was in advance agreed that the conversation was to be informal and + verbal merely. On our part the whole substance of the instructions to + the Secretary of State hereinbefore recited was stated and insisted + upon, and nothing was said inconsistent therewith; while by the other + party it was not said that in any event or on any condition they <i>ever</i> + would consent to reunion, and yet they equally omitted to declare that + they <i>never</i> would so consent. They seemed to desire a postponement of + that question and the adoption of some other course first, which, as + some of them seemed to argue, might or might not lead to reunion, but + which course we thought would amount to an indefinite postponement. The + conference ended without result. +</p> +<p> + The foregoing, containing, as is believed, all the information sought, + is respectfully submitted. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 13, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of a dispatch of the 12th ultimo, + addressed to the Secretary of State by the minister resident of the + United States at Stockholm, relating to an international exhibition to + be held at Bergen, in Norway, during the coming summer. The expediency + of any legislation upon the subject is submitted for your consideration. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 13, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit to Congress a copy of a note of the 2d instant, addressed to + the Secretary of State by the Commander J.C. de Figaniere a Moraô, envoy + extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary of His Most Faithful Majesty + the King of Portugal, calling attention to a proposed international + exhibition at the city of Oporto, to be opened in August next, and + inviting contributions thereto of the products of American manufactures + and industry. The expediency of any legislation on the subject is + submitted for your consideration. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 25, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 23d instant, + I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of War, with the + accompanying General Orders, No. 23,<a href="#note-14"><small>14</small></a> issued by Major-General Banks + at New Orleans, February 3, 1864. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>WASHINGTON, February 27, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith lay before the Senate, for its constitutional action thereon, + a treaty made and concluded with the Klamath and Modoc tribes of Indians + of Oregon, at Fort Klamath, on the 5th day of October, 1864. +</p> +<p> + A letter of the Secretary of the Interior of this date, a copy of the + report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs of the 24th instant, and + a communication of the superintendent of Indian affairs in Oregon + accompany the treaty. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington, D.C., February 28, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> +Hon. H. HAMLIN,<br> + <i>President United States Senate</i>. +</p> +<p> + SIR: In reply to the resolution of the Senate dated February 14, 1865, I + transmit herewith a communication from the Secretary of War, forwarding + a copy of the report of the court of inquiry "in respect to the + explosion of the mine in front of Petersburg." +</p> +<p> + I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>March 2, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> +Hon. SCHUYLER COLFAX,<br> + <i>Speaker of the House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I transmit herewith the report of the Secretary of War, which, with + my permission, has been delayed until the present time to enable the + Lieutenant-General to furnish his report. +</p> +<p class="r"> + A. LINCOLN. +</p> +<center> + [The same message was addressed to the President of the Senate.] +</center> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 3, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate and House of Representatives</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith transmit to Congress a report, dated 1st instant, with the + accompanying papers, received from the Secretary of State in compliance + with the requirements of the eighteenth section of the act entitled "An + act to regulate the diplomatic and consular systems of the United + States," approved August 18, 1856. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0033"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + VETO MESSAGE.<a href="#note-15"><small>15</small></a> +</h2> +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>January 5, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the House of Representatives of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + I herewith return to your honorable body, in which it originated, + a "Joint resolution to correct certain clerical errors in the + internal-revenue act," without my approval. +</p> +<p> + My reason for so doing is that I am informed that this joint resolution + was prepared during the last moments of the last session of Congress + for the purpose of correcting certain errors of reference in the + internal-revenue act which were discovered on an examination of an + official copy procured from the State Department a few hours only before + the adjournment. It passed the House and went to the Senate, where a + vote was taken upon it, but by some accident it was not presented to the + President of the Senate for his signature. +</p> +<p> + Since the adjournment of the last session of Congress other errors of a + kind similar to those which this resolution was designed to correct have + been discovered in the law, and it is now thought most expedient to + include all the necessary corrections in one act or resolution. +</p> +<p> + The attention of the proper committee of the House has, I am informed, + been already directed to the preparation of a bill for this purpose. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0034"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + PROCLAMATIONS. +</h2> +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas by the act approved July 4, 1864, entitled "An act further to + regulate and provide for the enrolling and calling out the national + forces, and for other purposes," it is provided that the President of + the United States may, "at his discretion, at any time hereafter, call + for any number of men, as volunteers for the respective terms of one, + two, and three years for military service," and "that in case the quota + or any part thereof of any town, township, ward of a city, precinct, or + election district, or of any county not so subdivided, shall not be + filled within the space of fifty days after such call, then the + President shall immediately order a draft for one year to fill such + quota or any part thereof which may be unfilled;" and +</p> +<p> + Whereas by the credits allowed in accordance with the act of Congress on + the call for 500,000 men, made July 18, 1864, the number of men to be + obtained under that call was reduced to 280,000; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas the operations of the enemy in certain States have rendered it + impracticable to procure from them their full quotas of troops under + said call; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas from the foregoing causes but 240,000 men have been put into + the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps under the said call of July 18, 1864, + leaving a deficiency on that call of two hundred and sixty thousand + (260,000): +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States of + America, in order to supply the aforesaid deficiency and to provide for + casualties in the military and naval service of the United States, do + issue this my call for three hundred thousand (300,000) volunteers to + serve for one, two, or three years. The quotas of the States, districts, + and subdistricts under this call will be assigned by the War Department + through the bureau of the Provost-Marshal-General of the United States, + and "in case the quota or any part thereof of any town, township, ward + of a city, precinct, or election district, or of any county not so + subdivided, shall not be filled" before the 15th day of February, 1865, + then a draft shall be made to fill such quota or any part thereof under + this call which may be unfilled on said 15th day of February, 1865. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal + of the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 19th day of December, A.D. 1864, + and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas the act of Congress of the 28th of September, 1850, entitled "An + act to create additional collection districts in the State of + California, and to change the existing districts therein, and to modify + the existing collection districts in the United States," extends to + merchandise warehoused under bond the privilege of being exported to the + British North American Provinces adjoining the United States in the + manner prescribed in the act of Congress of the 3d of March, 1845, which + designates certain frontier ports through which merchandise may be + exported, and further provides "that such other ports situated on the + frontiers of the United States adjoining the British North American + Provinces as may hereafter be found expedient may have extended to them + the like privileges on the recommendation of the Secretary of the + Treasury and proclamation duly made by the President of the United + States specially designating the ports to which the aforesaid privileges + are to be extended:" +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States of + America, in accordance with the recommendation of the Secretary of the + Treasury, do hereby declare and proclaim that the port of St. Albans, in + the State of Vermont, is and shall be entitled to all the privileges in + regard to the exportation of merchandise in bond to the British North + American Provinces adjoining the United States which are extended to the + ports enumerated in the seventh section of the act of Congress of the 3d + of March, 1845, aforesaid, from and after the date of this proclamation. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 10th day of January, A.D. 1865, and + of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas objects of interest to the United States require that the Senate + should be convened at 12 o'clock on the 4th of March next to receive and + act upon such communications as may be made to it on the part of the + Executive: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, have + considered it to be my duty to issue this my proclamation, declaring + that an extraordinary occasion requires the Senate of the United States + to convene for the transaction of business at the Capitol, in the city + of Washington, on the 4th day of March next, at 12 o'clock at noon on + that day, of which all who shall at that time be entitled to act as + members of that body are hereby required to take notice. +</p> +<p> + Given under my hand and the seal of the United States at Washington, the + 17th day of February, A.D. 1865, and of the Independence of the United + States of America the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0035"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + EXECUTIVE ORDERS. +</h2> +<p class="r"> + EXECUTIVE MANSION, <i>December 10, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, first. That Major-General William F. Smith and the Hon. Henry + Stanbery be, and they are hereby, appointed special commissioners to + investigate and report, for the information of the President, upon the + civil and military administration in the military division bordering + upon and west of the Mississippi, under such instructions as shall be + issued by authority of the President and the War Department. +</p> +<p> + Second. Said commissioners shall have power to examine witnesses upon + oath, and to take such proofs, orally or in writing, upon the + subject-matters of investigation as they may deem expedient, and return + the same together with their report. +</p> +<p> + Third. All officers and persons in the military, naval, and revenue + services, or in any branch of the public service under the authority of + the United States Government, are required, upon subpoena issued by + direction of the said commissioners, to appear before them at such time + and place as may be designated in said subpoena and to give testimony on + oath touching such matters as may be inquired of by the commissioners, + and to produce such books, papers, writings, and documents as they may + be notified or required to produce by the commissioners, and as may be + in their possession. +</p> +<p> + Fourth. Said special commissioners shall also investigate and report + upon any other matters that may hereafter be directed by the Secretary + of War, and shall with all convenient dispatch make report to him in + writing of their investigation, and shall also from time to time make + special reports to the Secretary of War upon such matters as they may + deem of importance to the public interests. +</p> +<p> + Fifth. The Secretary of War shall assign to the said commissioners such + aid and assistance as may be required for the performance of their + duties, and make such just and reasonable allowances and compensation + for the said commissioners and for the persons employed by them as he + may deem proper. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +DEPARTMENT OF STATE,<br> + <i>Washington, December 17, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + The President directs that, except immigrant passengers directly + entering an American port by sea, henceforth no traveler shall be + allowed to enter the United States from a foreign country without a + passport. If a citizen, the passport must be from this Department or + from some United States minister or consul abroad; and if an alien, from + the competent authority of his own country, the passport to be + countersigned by a diplomatic agent or consul of the United States. This + regulation is intended to apply especially to persons proposing to come + to the United States from the neighboring British Provinces. Its + observance will be strictly enforced by all officers, civil, military, + and naval, in the service of the United States, and the State and + municipal authorities are requested to aid in its execution. It is + expected, however, that no immigrant passenger coming in manner + aforesaid will be obstructed, or any other persons who may set out on + their way hither before intelligence of this regulation could reasonably + be expected to reach the country from which they may have started. +</p> +<p class="r"> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>December 31, 1864</i>. +</p> +<p> + By the authority conferred upon the President of the United States by + the second section of the act of Congress approved July 2, 1864, + entitled "An act to amend an act to aid in the construction of a + railroad and telegraph line from the Missouri River to the Pacific + Ocean," etc., I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do + hereby designate the Merchants' National Bank, Boston; the Chicago and + Rock Island Railroad Company's office, Chicago; the First National Bank + at Philadelphia; the First National Bank at Baltimore; the First + National Bank at Cincinnati, and the Third National Bank at St. Louis, + in addition to the general office of the Union Pacific Railroad Company + in the city of New York, as the places at which the said Union Pacific + Railroad Company shall cause books to be kept open to receive + subscriptions to the capital stock of said company. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington City, January 20, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, That no clearances for the exportation of hay from the United + States be granted until further orders, unless the same shall have been + placed on shipboard before the publication hereof. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +EXECUTIVE MANSION,<br> + <i>Washington City, February 6, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + Whereas complaints are made in some localities respecting the + assignments of quotas and credits allowed for the pending call of troops + to fill up the armies: +</p> +<p> + Now, in order to determine all controversies in respect thereto and + to avoid any delay in filling up the armies, it is ordered that the + Attorney-General, Brigadier-General Richard Delafield, and Colonel C. W. + Foster be, and they are hereby, constituted a board to examine into the + proper quotas and credits of the respective States and districts under + the call of December 19, 1864, with directions, if any errors be found + therein, to make such corrections as the law and facts may require and + report their determination to the Provost-Marshal-General. The + determination of said board to be final and conclusive, and the draft to + be made in conformity therewith. +</p> +<p> + 2. The Provost-Marshal-General is ordered to make the draft in the + respective districts as speedily as the same can be done after the 15th + of this month. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>February 13, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Military Officers Commanding in West Tennessee</i>: +</p> +<p> + While I can not order as within requested, allow me to say that it is + my wish for you to relieve the people from all burdens, harassments, + and oppressions so far as is possible consistently with your military + necessities; that the object of the war being to restore and maintain + the blessings of peace and good government, I desire you to help, and + not hinder, every advance in that direction. +</p> +<p> + Of your military necessities you must judge and execute, but please do + so in the spirit and with the purpose above indicated. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + [From the Daily National Intelligencer, February 22, 1865.] +</center> +<p class="r"> +DEPARTMENT OF STATE,<br> + <i>Washington, February 21, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + The Department buildings will be illuminated on the night of + Washington's birthday, in honor of the recent triumphs of the Union. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President: +</p> +<p class="r"> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD. +</p> + +<a name="2H_4_0036"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + SECOND INAUGURAL ADDRESS. +</h2> +<p> + Fellow-Countrymen: At this second appearing to take the oath of the + Presidential office there is less occasion for an extended address than + there was at the first. Then a statement somewhat in detail of a course + to be pursued seemed fitting and proper. Now, at the expiration of four + years, during which public declarations have been constantly called + forth on every point and phase of the great contest which still absorbs + the attention and engrosses the energies of the nation, little that is + new could be presented. The progress of our arms, upon which all else + chiefly depends, is as well known to the public as to myself, and it is, + I trust, reasonably satisfactory and encouraging to all. With high hope + for the future, no prediction in regard to it is ventured. +</p> +<p> + On the occasion corresponding to this four years ago all thoughts were + anxiously directed to an impending civil war. All dreaded it, all sought + to avert it. While the inaugural address was being delivered from this + place, devoted altogether to <i>saving</i> the Union without war, insurgent + agents were in the city seeking to <i>destroy</i> it without war—seeking to + dissolve the Union and divide effects by negotiation. Both parties + deprecated war, but one of them would <i>make</i> war rather than let the + nation survive, and the other would <i>accept</i> war rather than let it + perish, and the war came. +</p> +<p> + One-eighth of the whole population were colored slaves, not distributed + generally over the Union, but localized in the southern part of it. + These slaves constituted a peculiar and powerful interest. All knew + that this interest was somehow the cause of the war. To strengthen, + perpetuate, and extend this interest was the object for which the + insurgents would rend the Union even by war, while the Government + claimed no right to do more than to restrict the territorial enlargement + of it. Neither party expected for the war the magnitude or the duration + which it has already attained. Neither anticipated that the <i>cause</i> of + the conflict might cease with or even before the conflict itself should + cease. Each looked for an easier triumph, and a result less fundamental + and astounding. Both read the same Bible and pray to the same God, and + each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men + should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from + the sweat of other men's faces, but let us judge not, that we be not + judged. The prayers of both could not be answered. That of neither has + been answered fully. The Almighty has His own purposes. "Woe unto the + world because of offenses; for it must needs be that offenses come, but + woe to that man by whom the offense cometh." If we shall suppose that + American slavery is one of those offenses which, in the providence of + God, must needs come, but which, having continued through His appointed + time, He now wills to remove, and that He gives to both North and South + this terrible war as the woe due to those by whom the offense came, + shall we discern therein any departure from those divine attributes + which the believers in a living God always ascribe to Him? Fondly do we + hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily + pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled + by the bondsman's two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall + be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid + by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, + so still it must be said "the judgments of the Lord are true and + righteous altogether." +</p> +<p> + With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the + right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the + work we are in, to bind up the nation's wounds, to care for him who + shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all + which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves + and with all nations. +</p> +<p> + MARCH 4, 1865. +</p> + +<a name="2H_4_0037"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + SPECIAL MESSAGES. +</h2> + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, D.C., <i>March 8, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + The fourth section of the law of 16th January, 1857, provides that + reserved officers may be promoted on the reserved list, by and with the + advice and consent of the Senate, and under this authority various + officers of the Navy have been promoted one grade from time to time. +</p> +<p> + I therefore nominate Commander John J. Young, now on the reserved list, + to be a captain in the Navy on the reserved list from the 12th August, + 1854, the date when he was entitled to his regular promotion had he not + been overslaughed. It is due to this officer to state that he was passed + over in consequence of physical disability, this disability having + occurred in the discharge of his duties; and prior to his misfortune + he bore the reputation of an efficient and correct officer, and + subsequently has evinced a willingness to perform whatever duties were + assigned him. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> + WASHINGTON, <i>March 8, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the Senate of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + In answer to the Senate's resolution of the 6th instant, requesting the + return of a certain joint resolution,<a href="#note-16"><small>16</small></a> I transmit a report from the + Secretary of State. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<a name="2H_4_0038"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + PROCLAMATIONS. +</h2> +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas the twenty-first section of the act of Congress approved on the + 3d instant, entitled "An act to amend the several acts heretofore passed + to provide for the enrolling and calling out the national forces and + for other purposes," requires "that, in addition to the other lawful + penalties of the crime of desertion from the military or naval service, + all persons who have deserted the military or naval service of the + United States who shall not return to said service or report themselves + to a provost-marshal within sixty days after the proclamation + hereinafter mentioned shall be deemed and taken to have voluntarily + relinquished and forfeited their rights of citizenship and their rights + to become citizens, and such deserters shall be forever incapable of + holding any office of trust or profit under the United States or of + exercising any rights of citizens thereof; and all persons who shall + hereafter desert the military or naval service, and all persons who, + being duly enrolled, shall depart the jurisdiction of the district in + which he is enrolled or go beyond the limits of the United States with + intent to avoid any draft into the military or naval service duly + ordered, shall be liable to the penalties of this section. And the + President is hereby authorized and required, forthwith on the passage of + this act, to issue his proclamation setting forth the provisions of this + section, in which proclamation the President is requested to notify all + deserters returning within sixty days as aforesaid that they shall be + pardoned on condition of returning to their regiments and companies or + to such other organizations as they may be assigned to until they shall + have served for a period of time equal to their original term of + enlistment." +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States, do issue this my proclamation, as required by said act, + ordering and requiring all deserters to return to their proper posts; + and I do hereby notify them that all deserters who shall, within sixty + days from the date of this proclamation, viz, on or before the 10th day + of May, 1865, return to service or report themselves to a + provost-marshal shall be pardoned, on condition that they return to + their regiments and companies or to such other organizations as they may + be assigned to and serve the remainder of their original terms of + enlistment and in addition thereto a period equal to the time lost by + desertion. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 11th day of March, A.D. 1865, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas reliable information has been received that hostile Indians + within the limits of the United States have been furnished with arms and + munitions of war by persons dwelling in conterminous foreign territory, + and are thereby enabled to prosecute their savage warfare upon the + exposed and sparse settlements of the frontier: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States of America, do hereby proclaim and direct that all persons + detected in that nefarious traffic shall be arrested and tried by + court-martial at the nearest military post, and if convicted shall + receive the punishment due to their deserts. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 17th day of March, A.D. 1865, and + of the Independence of the United States the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas by my proclamations of the 19th and 27th days of April, A.D. + 1861, the ports of the United States in the States of Virginia, North + Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, + Louisiana, and Texas were declared to be subject to blockade; but +</p> +<p> + Whereas the said blockade has, in consequence of actual military + occupation by this Government, since been conditionally set aside or + relaxed in respect to the ports of Norfolk and Alexandria, in the State + of Virginia; Beaufort, in the State of North Carolina; Port Royal, in + the State of South Carolina; Pensacola and Fernandina, in the State of + Florida; and New Orleans, in the State of Louisiana; and +</p> +<p> + Whereas by the fourth section of the act of Congress approved on the + 13th of July, 1861, entitled "An act further to provide or the + collection of duties on imports, and for other purposes," the President, + for the reasons therein set forth, is authorized to close certain ports + of entry: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of + the United States, do hereby proclaim that the ports of Richmond, + Tappahannock, Cherrystone, Yorktown, and Petersburg, in Virginia; + of Camden (Elizabeth City), Edenton, Plymouth, Washington, Newbern, + Ocracoke, and Wilmington, in North Carolina; of Charleston, Georgetown, + and Beaufort, in South Carolina; of Savannah, St. Marys, and Brunswick + (Darien), in Georgia; of Mobile, in Alabama; of Pearl River + (Shields-boro), Natchez, and Vicksburg, in Mississippi; of St. + Augustine, Key West, St. Marks (Port Leon), St. Johns (Jacksonville), + and Apalachicola, in Florida; of Teche (Franklin), in Louisiana; of + Galveston, La Salle, Brazos de Santiago (Point Isabel), and Brownsville, + in Texas, are hereby closed, and all right of importation, warehousing, + and other privileges shall, in respect to the ports aforesaid, cease + until they shall have again been opened by order of the President; and + if while said ports are so closed any ship or vessel from beyond the + United States or having on board any articles subject to duties shall + attempt to enter any such port, the same, together with its tackle, + apparel, furniture, and cargo, shall be forfeited to the United States. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 11th day of April, A.D. 1865, and + of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas by my proclamation of this date the port of Key West, in the + State of Florida, was inadvertently included among those which are not + open to commerce: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, be it known that I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the + United States, do hereby declare and make known that the said port of + Key West is and shall remain open to foreign and domestic commerce upon + the same conditions by which that commerce has there hitherto been + governed. +</p> +<p> + In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 11th day of April, A.D. 1865, and + of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<h3> + BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA +</h3> +<h4> + A PROCLAMATION. +</h4> +<p> + Whereas for some time past vessels of war of the United States have been + refused in certain foreign ports privileges and immunities to which they + were entitled by treaty, public law, or the comity of nations, at the + same time that vessels of war of the country wherein the said privileges + and immunities have been withheld have enjoyed them fully and + uninterruptedly in ports of the United States, which condition of things + has not always been forcibly resisted by the United States, although, on + the other hand, they have not at any time failed to protest against and + declare their dissatisfaction with the same. In the view of the United + States, no condition any longer exists which can be claimed to justify + the denial to them by any one of such nations of customary naval rights + as has heretofore been so unnecessarily persisted in. +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, do + hereby make known that if after a reasonable time shall have elapsed for + intelligence of this proclamation to have reached any foreign country in + whose ports the said privileges and immunities shall have been refused + as aforesaid they shall continue to be so refused, then and thenceforth + the same privileges and immunities shall be refused to the vessels of + war of that country in the ports of the United States; and this refusal + shall continue until war vessels of the United States shall have been + placed upon an entire equality in the foreign ports aforesaid with + similar vessels of other countries. The United States, whatever claim or + pretense may have existed heretofore, are now, at least, entitled to + claim and concede an entire and friendly equality of rights and + hospitalities with all maritime nations. +</p> +<p> + In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of + the United States to be affixed. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p> + Done at the city of Washington, this 11th day of April, A.D. 1865, and + of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-ninth. +</p> +<p class="r"> + ABRAHAM LINCOLN. +</p> + +<p><br> +By the President:<br> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> + + +<a name="2H_4_0039"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + EXECUTIVE ORDERS. +</h2> + +<p class="r"> +DEPARTMENT OF STATE,<br> + <i>Washington, March 8</i>. +</p> +<p> + Whereas, pursuant to the order of the President of the United States, + directions were issued from this Department, under date of the 17th of + December, 1864, requiring passports from all travelers entering the + United States, except immigrant passengers directly entering an American + port from a foreign country; but whereas information has recently been + received which affords reasonable grounds to expect that Her Britannic + Majesty's Government and the executive and legislative branches of the + government of Canada have taken and will continue to take such steps as + may be looked for from a friendly neighbor and will be effectual toward + preventing hostile incursions from Canadian territory into the United + States, the President directs that from and after this date the order + above referred to requiring passports shall be modified, and so much + thereof as relates to persons entering this country from Canada shall be + rescinded, saving and reserving the order in all other respects in full + force. +</p> +<p class="r"> + WILLIAM H. SEWARD. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p class="r"> +DEPARTMENT OF STATE,<br> + <i>Washington, March 14, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + The President directs that all persons who now are or hereafter shall be + found within the United States who have been engaged in holding + intercourse or trade with the insurgents by sea, if they are citizens of + the United States or domiciled aliens, shall be arrested and held as + prisoners of war until the war shall close, subject, nevertheless, to + prosecution, trial, and conviction for any offense committed by them as + spies or otherwise against the laws of war. The President further + directs that all nonresident foreigners who now are or hereafter shall + be found in the United States, and who have been or shall have been + engaged in violating the blockade of the insurgent ports, shall leave + the United States within twelve days from the publication of this order, + or from their subsequent arrival in the United States, if on the + Atlantic side, and forty days if on the Pacific side, of the country; + and such persons shall not return to the United States during the + continuance of the war. Provost-marshals and marshals of the United + States will arrest and commit to military custody all such offenders as + shall disregard this order, whether they have passports or not, and they + will be detained in such custody until the end of the war, or until + discharged by subsequent orders of the President. +</p> +<p class="r"> +W.H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 50. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, March 27, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>Ordered</i>, first. That at the hour of noon on the 14th day of April, + 1865, Brevet Major-General Anderson will raise and plant upon the ruins + of Fort Sumter, in Charleston Harbor, the same United States flag which + floated over the battlements of that fort during the rebel assault, and + which was lowered and saluted by him and the small force of his command + when the works were evacuated on the 14th day of April, 1861. +</p> +<p> + Second. That the flag, when raised, be saluted by one hundred guns from + Fort Sumter and by a national salute from every fort and rebel battery + that fired upon Fort Sumter. +</p> +<p> + Third. That suitable ceremonies be had upon the occasion, under the + direction of Major-General William T. Sherman, whose military operations + compelled the rebels to evacuate Charleston, or, in his absence, under + the charge of Major-General Q.A. Gillmore, commanding the department. + Among the ceremonies will be the delivery of a public address by the + Rev. Henry Ward Beecher. +</p> +<p> + Fourth. That the naval forces at Charleston and their commander on that + station be invited to participate in the ceremonies of the occasion. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President of the United States: +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p> + <i>To all whom these presents may concern</i>: +</p> +<p> + Whereas for some time past evil-disposed persons have crossed the + borders of the United States or entered their ports by sea from + countries where they are tolerated, and have committed capital felonies + against the property and life of American citizens; as well in the + cities as in the rural districts of the country: +</p> +<p> + Now, therefore, in the name and by the authority of the President of the + United States, I do hereby make known that a reward of $1,000 will be + paid at this Department for the capture of each of such offenders, upon + his conviction by a civil or military tribunal, to whomsoever shall + arrest and deliver such offenders into the custody of the civil or + military authorities of the United States. And the like reward will be + paid upon the same terms for the capture of any such persons so entering + the United States whose offenses shall be committed subsequently to the + publication of this notice. +</p> +<p> + A reward of $500 will be paid upon conviction for the arrest of any + person who shall have aided and abetted offenders of the class before + named within the territory of the United States. +</p> +<p> + Given under my hand and the seal of the Department of State, at + Washington, this 4th day of April, A.D. 1865. +</p> +<p> + [SEAL.] +</p> +<p class="r"> +WILLIAM H. SEWARD,<br> + <i>Secretary of State</i>. +</p> + +<a name="2H_4_0040"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + +<div style="height: 4em;"><br><br><br><br></div> + +<h2> + DEATH OF PRESIDENT LINCOLN. +</h2> + +<h3> + ANNOUNCEMENT TO THE VICE-PRESIDENT. +</h3> +<center> + [From the original, Department of State.] +</center> + +<p class="r"> +WASHINGTON CITY, D.C.,<br> + <i>April 15, 1865</i>. +</p> + +<p> +ANDREW JOHNSON,<br> + <i>Vice-President of the United States</i>. +</p> +<p> + SIR: Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, was shot by an + assassin last evening at Ford's Theater, in this city, and died at the + hour of twenty-two minutes after 7 o'clock. +</p> +<p> + About the same time at which the President was shot an assassin entered + the sick chamber of the Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, and + stabbed him in several places—in the throat, neck, and face—severely + if not mortally wounding him. Other members of the Secretary's family + were dangerously wounded by the assassin while making his escape. By the + death of President Lincoln the office of President has devolved, under + the Constitution, upon you. The emergency of the Government demands that + you should immediately qualify, according to the requirements of the + Constitution, and enter upon the duties of President of the United + States. If you will please make known your pleasure, such arrangements + as you deem proper will be made. +</p> +<p> + Your obedient servants, +</p> +<p class="r"> +HUGH McCULLOCH,<br> + <i>Secretary of the Treasury</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +GIDEON WELLES,<br> + <i>Secretary of Navy</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +W. DENNISON,<br> + <i>Postmaster-General</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +J.P. USHER,<br> + <i>Secretary of the Interior</i>. +</p> +<p class="r"> +JAMES SPEED,<br> + <i>Attorney-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + [From the Daily National Intelligencer, April 17, 1865.] +</center> +<p> + The Vice-President responded that it would be agreeable to him to + qualify himself for the high office to which he had been so unexpectedly + called, under such melancholy circumstances, at his rooms at the + Kirkwood Hotel; and at 11 o'clock a.m. [15th] the oath of office was + administered to him by Chief Justice Chase, of the Supreme Court of the + United States, in the presence of nearly all the Cabinet officers; the + Hon. Solomon Foot, United States Senator from Vermont; the Hon. + Alexander Ramsey, United States Senator from Minnesota; the Hon. Richard + Yates, United States Senator from Illinois; the Hon. John. P. Hale, late + Senator from New Hampshire; General Farnsworth, of the House of + Representatives, from Illinois; F.P. Blair, sr.; Hon. Montgomery Blair, + late Post master-General, and some others. +</p> +<center> + [For Inaugural Address of President Johnson, see pp. 305-306.] +</center> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + ANNOUNCEMENT TO REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES ABROAD. +</h3> +<center> + [From official records, Department of State.] +</center> +<center> + CIRCULAR. +</center> +<p class="r"> +DEPARTMENT OF STATE,<br> + <i>Washington, April 17, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + SIR: The melancholy duty devolves upon me officially to apprise you of + the assassination of the President at Ford's Theater, in this city, in + the evening of the 14th instant. He died the next morning from the + effects of the wound. +</p> +<p> + About the same time an attempt was made to assassinate the Secretary of + State in his own house, where he was in bed suffering from the effects + of the late accident. The attempt failed, but Mr. Seward was severely + cut, on the face especially, it is supposed with a bowie knife. Mr. F.W. + Seward was felled by a blow or blows on the head, and for some time + afterwards was apparently unconscious. Both the Secretary and Assistant + Secretary are better, especially the former. +</p> +<p> + Andrew Johnson has formally entered upon the duties of President. I have + been authorized temporarily to act as Secretary of State. +</p> +<p> + I am, sir, your obedient servant, +</p> +<p class="r"> +W. HUNTER,<br> + <i>Acting Secretary</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + ANNOUNCEMENT TO REPRESENTATIVES OF FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS IN THE UNITED + STATES. +</h3> +<center> + [From official records, Department of State.] +</center> +<p class="r"> +DEPARTMENT OF STATE,<br> + <i>Washington, April 15, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + SIR: It is my great misfortune to be obliged to inform you of events not + less afflicting to the people of the United States than distressing to + my own feelings and the feelings of all those connected with the + Government. +</p> +<p> + The President of the United States was shot with a pistol last night, + while attending a theater in this city, and expired this morning from + the effects of the wound. At about the same time an attempt was made to + assassinate the Secretary of State, which, though it fortunately failed, + left him severely, but it is hoped not dangerously, wounded with a knife + or dagger. Mr. F.W. Seward was also struck on the head with a heavy + weapon, and is in a critical condition from the effect of the blows. +</p> +<p> + Pursuant to the provision of the Constitution of the United States, + Andrew Johnson, the Vice-President, has formally assumed the functions + of President. I have by him been authorized to perform the duties of + Secretary of State until otherwise ordered. +</p> +<p> + I avail myself of the occasion to offer to you the assurance of my + distinguished consideration. +</p> +<p class="r"> +W. HUNTER,<br> + <i>Acting Secretary</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + ANNOUNCEMENT TO THE ARMY. +</h3> +<center> + [From official records, War Department.] +</center> +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 66. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, April 16, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + The following order of the Secretary of War announces to the armies of + the United States the untimely and lamentable death of the illustrious + Abraham Lincoln, late President of the United States: +</p> +<p class="r"> + WAR DEPARTMENT, <i>Washington City, April 16, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + The distressing duty has devolved upon the Secretary of War to announce + to the armies of the United States that at twenty-two minutes after + 7 o'clock on the morning of Saturday, the 15th day of April, 1865, + Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, died of a mortal wound + inflicted upon him by an assassin. +</p> +<p> + The armies of the United States will share with their fellow-citizens + the feelings of grief and horror inspired by this most atrocious murder + of their great and beloved President and Commander in Chief, and with + profound sorrow will mourn his death as a national calamity. +</p> +<p> + The headquarters of every department, post, station, fort, and arsenal + will be draped in mourning for thirty days, and appropriate funeral + honors will be paid by every army, and in every department, and at every + military post, and at the Military Academy at West Point, to the memory + of the late illustrious Chief Magistrate of the nation and Commander in + Chief of its armies. +</p> +<p> + Lieutenant-General Grant will give the necessary instructions for + carrying this order into effect. +</p> +<p class="r"> +EDWIN M. STANTON,<br> + <i>Secretary of War</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<p> + On the day after the receipt of this order at the headquarters of each + military division, department, army, post, station, fort, and arsenal + and at the Military Academy at West Point the troops and cadets will be + paraded at 10 o'clock a. m. and the order read to them, after which all + labors and operations for the day will cease and be suspended as far as + practicable in a state of war. +</p> +<p> + The national flag will be displayed at half-staff. +</p> +<p> + At dawn of day thirteen guns will be fired, and afterwards at intervals + of thirty minutes between the rising and setting sun a single gun, and + at the close of the day a national salute of thirty-six guns. +</p> +<p> + The officers of the armies of the United States will wear the badge of + mourning on the left arm and on their swords and the colors of their + commands and regiments will be put in mourning for the period of six + months. +</p> +<p> + By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: +</p> +<p class="r"> +W.A. NICHOLS,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + ANNOUNCEMENT TO THE NAVY. +</h3> +<center> + [From General Orders and Circulars, Navy Department, 1863 to 1887.] +</center> +<center> + GENERAL ORDER No. 51. +</center> +<p class="r"> + NAVY DEPARTMENT, <i>Washington, April 15, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + The Department announces with profound sorrow to the officers and men of + the Navy and Marine Corps the death of Abraham Lincoln, late President + of the United States. Stricken down by the hand of an assassin on the + evening of the 14th instant, when surrounded by his family and friends, + he lingered a few hours after receiving the fatal wound, and died at 7 + o'clock 22 minutes this morning. +</p> +<p> + A grateful people had given their willing confidence to the patriot and + statesman under whose wise and successful administration the nation was + just emerging from the civil strife which for four years has afflicted + the land when this terrible calamity fell upon the country. To him our + gratitude was justly due, for to him, under God, more than to any other + person, are we indebted for the successful vindication of the integrity + of the Union and the maintenance of the power of the Republic. +</p> +<p> + The officers of the Navy and of the Marine Corps will, as a + manifestation of their respect for the exalted character, eminent + position, and inestimable public services of the late President, and as + an indication of their sense of the calamity which the country has + sustained, wear the usual badge of mourning for six months. +</p> +<p> + The Department further directs that upon the day following the receipt + of this order the commandants of squadrons, navy-yards, and stations + will cause the ensign of every vessel in their several commands to be + hoisted at half-mast, and a gun to be fired every half hour, beginning + at sunrise and ending at sunset. The flags of the several navy-yards and + marine barracks will also be hoisted at half-mast. +</p> +<p class="r"> +GIDEON WELLES,<br> + <i>Secretary of the Navy</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + ANNOUNCEMENT TO THE REVENUE MARINE. +</h3> +<center> + [From the Daily National Intelligencer, April 18, 1865.] +</center> +<center> + GENERAL ORDER. +</center> +<p class="r"> + TREASURY DEPARTMENT, <i>April 17, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + The Secretary of the Treasury with profound sorrow announces to the + Revenue Marine the death of Abraham Lincoln, late President of the + United States. He died in this city on the morning of the 15th instant, + at twenty-two minutes past 7 o'clock. +</p> +<p> + The officers of the Revenue Marine will, as a manifestation of their + respect for the exalted character and eminent public services of the + illustrious dead and of their sense of the calamity the country has + sustained by this afflicting dispensation of Providence, wear crape on + the left arm and upon the hilt of the sword for six months. +</p> +<p> + It is further directed that funeral honors be paid on board all revenue + vessels in commission by firing thirty-six minute guns, commencing at + meridian, on the day after the receipt of this order, and by wearing + their flags at half-mast. +</p> +<p class="r"> +HUGH McCULLOCH,<br> + <i>Secretary of the Treasury</i> +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + ACTION OF SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES IN WASHINGTON. +</h3> +<center> + [From Appendix to Memorial Address on the Life and Character of Abraham + Lincoln.] +</center> +<p> + The members of the Thirty-ninth Congress then in Washington met in the + Senate reception room, at the Capitol, on the 17th of April, 1865, at + noon. Hon. Lafayette S. Foster, of Connecticut, President <i>pro tempore</i> + of the Senate, was called to the chair, and the Hon. Schuyler Colfax, of + Indiana, Speaker of the House in the Thirty-eighth Congress, was chosen + secretary. +</p> +<p> + Senator Foot, of Vermont, who was visibly affected, stated that the + object of the meeting was to make arrangements relative to the funeral + of the deceased President of the United States. +</p> +<p> + On motion of Senator Sumner, of Massachusetts, a committee of five + members from each House was ordered to report at 4 p.m. what action + would be fitting for the meeting to take. +</p> +<p> + The chairman appointed Senators Sumner, of Massachusetts; Harris, of + New York; Johnson, of Maryland; Ramsey, of Minnesota, and Conness, of + California, and Representatives Washburne, of Illinois; Smith, of + Kentucky; Schenck, of Ohio; Pike, of Maine, and Coffroth, of + Pennsylvania; and on motion of Mr. Schenck the chairman and secretary of + the meeting were added to the committee, and then the meeting adjourned + until 4 p.m. +</p> +<p> + The meeting reassembled at 4 p.m., pursuant to adjournment. +</p> +<p> + Mr. Sumner, from the committee heretofore appointed, reported that they + had selected as pallbearers on the part of the Senate Mr. Foster, of + Connecticut; Mr. Morgan, of New York; Mr. Johnson, of Maryland; Mr. + Yates, of Illinois; Mr. Wade, of Ohio, and Mr. Conness, of California; + on the part of the House, Mr. Dawes, of Massachusetts; Mr. Coffroth, + of Pennsylvania; Mr. Smith, of Kentucky; Mr. Colfax, of Indiana; + Mr. Worthington, of Nevada, and Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. +</p> +<p> + They also recommended the appointment of one member of Congress from + each State and Territory to act as a Congressional committee to + accompany the remains of the late President to Illinois, and presented + the following names as such committee, the chairman of the meeting + to have the authority of appointing hereafter for the States and + Territories not represented to-day from which members may be present + at the Capitol by the day of the funeral. +</p> +<p> + Maine, Mr. Pike; New Hampshire, Mr. E.H. Rollins; Vermont, Mr. Foot; + Massachusetts, Mr. Sumner; Rhode Island, Mr. Anthony; Connecticut, Mr. + Dixon; New York, Mr. Harris; Pennsylvania, Mr. Cowan; Ohio, Mr. Schenck; + Kentucky, Mr. Smith; Indiana, Mr. Julian; Illinois, the delegation; + Michigan, Mr. Chandler; Iowa, Mr. Harlan; California, Mr. Shannon; + Minnesota, Mr. Ramsey; Oregon, Mr. Williams; Kansas, Mr. S. Clarke; + West Virginia, Mr. Whaley; Nevada, Mr. Nye; Nebraska, Mr. Hitchcock; + Colorado, Mr. Bradford; Dakota, Mr. Todd; Idaho, Mr. Wallace. +</p> +<p> + The committee also recommended the adoption of the following resolution: +</p> +<p class="q"> + <i>Resolved</i>, That the Sergeants-at-Arms of the Senate and House, with + their necessary assistants, be requested to attend the committee + accompanying the remains of the late President, and to make all the + necessary arrangements. +</p> +<p> + All of which was concurred in unanimously. +</p> +<p> + Mr. Sumner, from the same committee, also reported the following, which + was unanimously agreed to: +</p> +<p class="q"> + The members of the Senate and House of Representatives now assembled in + Washington, humbly confessing their dependence upon Almighty God, who + rules all that is done for human good, make haste at this informal + meeting to express the emotions with which they have been filled by the + appalling tragedy which has deprived the nation of its head and covered + the land with mourning; and in further declaration of their sentiments + unanimously resolve: +</p><p class="q"> + 1. That in testimony of their veneration and affection for the + illustrious dead, who has been permitted, under Providence, to do so + much for his country and for liberty, they will unite in the funeral + services and by an appropriate committee will accompany his remains to + their place of burial in the State from which he was taken for the + national service. +</p><p class="q"> + 2. That in the life of Abraham Lincoln, who by the benignant favor of + republican institutions rose from humble beginnings to the heights of + power and fame, they recognize an example of purity, simplicity, and + virtue which should be a lesson to mankind, while in his death they + recognize a martyr whose memory will become more precious as men + learn to prize those principles of constitutional order and those + rights—civil, political, and human—for which he was made a sacrifice. +</p><p class="q"> + 3. That they invite the President of the United States, by solemn + proclamation, to recommend to the people of the United States to + assemble on a day to be appointed by him, publicly to testify their + grief and to dwell on the good which has been done on earth by him whom + we now mourn. +</p><p class="q"> + 4. That a copy of these resolutions be communicated to the President of + the United States, and also that a copy be communicated to the afflicted + widow of the late President as an expression of sympathy in her great + bereavement. +</p> +<p> + The meeting then adjourned. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + ORDERS OF THE HEADS OF THE EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS. +</h3> +<center> + [From official records, Department of State.] +</center> +<p class="r"> +DEPARTMENT OF STATE,<br> + <i>Washington, April 17, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + It is hereby ordered that, in honor to the memory of our late + illustrious Chief Magistrate, all officers and others subject to the + orders of the Secretary of State wear crape upon the left arm for the + period of six months. +</p> +<p class="r"> +W. HUNTER,<br> + <i>Acting Secretary</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [From official records, Treasury Department.] +</center> +<p class="r"> +TREASURY DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, April 17, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + It is hereby ordered that, in honor to the memory of our late + illustrious Chief Magistrate, all officers and others subject to the + orders of the Secretary of the Treasury wear crape upon the left arm for + the period of six months. +</p> +<p class="r"> +H. McCULLOCH,<br> + <i>Secretary of the Treasury</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [From official records, War Department.] +</center> +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 69. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, April 17, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + By direction of the President of the United States the War Department + will be closed on Wednesday next, the day of the funeral of the late + President of the United States. +</p> +<p> + Labor on that day will be suspended at all military posts and on all + public works under the direction of the War Department. The flags at all + military posts, stations, forts, and buildings will be kept at + half-staff during the day, and at 12 o'clock m. twenty-one minute guns + will be fired from all forts and at all military posts and at the + Military Academy. +</p> +<p> + By order of the Secretary of War: +</p> +<p class="r"> +W.A. NICHOLS,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [From General Orders and Circulars, Navy Department, 1863 to 1887.] +</center> +<center> + SPECIAL ORDER. +</center> +<p class="r"> + APRIL 17, 1865. +</p> +<p> + By order of the President of the United States the Navy Department will + be closed on Wednesday next, the day of the funeral solemnities of the + late President of the United States. Labor will also be suspended on + that day at each of the navy-yards and naval stations and upon all the + vessels of the United States. The flags of all vessels and at all the + navy yards and stations and marine barracks will be kept at half-mast + during the day, and at 12 o'clock m. twenty-one minute guns will be + fired by the senior officer of each squadron and the commandants of the + navy yards and stations. +</p> +<p class="r"> +GIDEON WELLES,<br> + <i>Secretary of the Navy</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [From the Daily National Intelligencer, April 18, 1865.] +</center> +<p class="r"> +POST-OFFICE DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, April 17, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To Deputy Postmasters</i>: +</p> +<p> + Business in all the post-offices of the United States will be suspended + and the offices closed from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, the 19th + instant, during the funeral solemnities of Abraham Lincoln, late + President of the United States. +</p> +<p class="r"> +W. DENNISON,<br> + <i>Postmaster-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [From official records, Post-Office Department.] +</center> +<center> + SPECIAL ORDER. +</center> +<p class="r"> +POST-OFFICE DEPARTMENT,<br> + <i>Washington, April 18, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + It is hereby ordered that, in honor of the memory of Abraham Lincoln, + our lamented Chief Magistrate, the officers and employees of this + Department wear crape upon the left arm for the period of six months. +</p> +<p class="r"> +W. DENNISON,<br> + <i>Postmaster-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<center> + [From official records, Department of the Interior.] +</center> +<p class="r"> +DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,<br> + <i>Washington, April 18, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + It is hereby ordered that, in honor of the memory of the late Chief + Magistrate of the nation, the officers and employees of this Department + wear crape upon the left arm for the period of six months. +</p> +<p class="r"> +J.P. USHER,<br> + <i>Secretary</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + FUNERAL ANNOUNCEMENT TO THE PUBLIC. +</h3> +<center> + [From the Daily National Intelligencer, April 17, 1865.] +</center> +<p class="r"> +DEPARTMENT OF STATE,<br> + <i>Washington, April 17, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + <i>To the People of the United States</i>: +</p> +<p> + The undersigned is directed to announce that the funeral ceremonies of + the late lamented Chief Magistrate will take place at the Executive + Mansion, in this city, at 12 o'clock m. on Wednesday, the 19th instant. +</p> +<p> + The various religious denominations throughout the country are invited + to meet in their respective places of worship at that hour for the + purpose of solemnizing the occasion with appropriate ceremonies. +</p> +<p class="r"> +W. HUNTER,<br> + <i>Acting Secretary of State</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + OFFICIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE FUNERAL. +</h3> +<center> + [From official records, War Department.] +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, April 17, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + The following order of arrangement is directed: +</p> +<center> + ORDER OF THE PROCESSION.<br> +</center> +<center> + FUNERAL ESCORT.<br> + (In column of march.) +</center> +<center> + One regiment of cavalry.<br> + Two batteries of artillery.<br> + Battalion of marines.<br> + Two regiments of infantry.<br> + Commander of escort and staff.<br> + Dismounted officers of Marine Corps, Navy, and Army, in the order named.<br> + Mounted officers of Marine Corps, Navy, and Army, in the order named.<br> + (All military officers to be in uniform, with side arms.)<br> +</center> +<center> + CIVIC PROCESSION.<br> + Marshal.<br> + Clergy in attendance.<br> + The Surgeon-General of the United States Army and physicians to the deceased.<br> + Hearse.<br> +</center> +<center> + <i>Pallbearers</i>. +</center> +<center> + On the part of the Senate: Mr. Foster, of Connecticut; Mr. Morgan, of + New York; Mr. Johnson, of Maryland; Mr. Yates, of Illinois; Mr. Wade, + of Ohio; Mr. Conness, of California. +</center><center> + On the part of the House: Mr. Dawes, of Massachusetts; Mr. Coffroth, + of Pennsylvania; Mr. Smith, of Kentucky; Mr. Colfax, of Indiana; Mr. + Worthington, of Nevada; Mr. Washburne, of Illinois. +</center><center> + Army: Lieutenant-General U.S. Grant; Major-General H.W. Halleck; + Brevet Brigadier-General W.A. Nichols. +</center><center> + Navy: Vice-Admiral D.G. Farragut; Rear-Admiral W.B. Shubrick; Colonel + Jacob Zelin, Marine Corps. +</center><center> + Civilians: O.H. Browning, George Ashman, Thomas Corwin, Simon Cameron. +</center><center> + Family.<br> + Relatives.<br> + The delegations of the States of Illinois and Kentucky, as mourners.<br> + The President.<br> + The Cabinet ministers.<br> + The diplomatic corps.<br> +Ex-Presidents.<br> + The Chief Justice and Associate Justices of the Supreme Court.<br> + The Senate of the United States.<br> + Preceded by their officers.<br> + Members of the House of Representatives of the United States.<br> + Governors of the several States and Territories.<br> + Legislatures of the several States and Territories.<br> + The Federal judiciary and the judiciary of the several States and Territories.<br> + The Assistant Secretaries of State, Treasury, War, Navy, Interior, and + the Assistant Postmasters-General, and the Assistant Attorney-General.<br> + Officers of the Smithsonian Institution.<br> + The members and officers of the Sanitary and Christian Commissions.<br> + Corporate authorities of Washington, Georgetown, and other cities.<br> + Delegations of the several States.<br> + The reverend the clergy of the various denominations.<br> + The clerks and employees of the several Departments and bureaus, + preceded by the heads of such bureaus and their respective chief clerks.<br> + Such societies as may wish to join the procession.<br> + Citizens and strangers. +</center> +<p> + The troops designated to form the escort will assemble in the Avenue, + north of the President's house, and form line precisely at 11 o'clock + a.m. on Wednesday, the 19th instant, with the left resting on Fifteenth + street. The procession will move precisely at 2 o'clock p.m., on the + conclusion of the religious services at the Executive Mansion (appointed + to commence at 12 o'clock m.), when minute guns will be fired by + detachments of artillery stationed near St. John's Church, the City + Hall, and at the Capitol. At the same hour the bells of the several + churches in Washington, Georgetown, and Alexandria will be tolled. +</p> +<p> + At sunrise on Wednesday, the 19th instant, a Federal salute will be + fired from the military stations in the vicinity of Washington, minute + guns between the hours of 12 and 3 o'clock, and a national salute at the + setting of the sun. +</p> +<p> + The usual badge of mourning will be worn on the left arm and on the hilt + of the sword. +</p> +<p> + By order of the Secretary of War: +</p> +<p class="r"> +W.A. NICHOLS,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> + The funeral ceremonies took place in the East Room of the Executive + Mansion at noon on the 19th of April, and the remains were then escorted + to the Capitol, where they lay in state in the Rotunda. +</p> +<p> + On the morning of April 21 the remains were taken from the Capitol and + placed in a funeral car, in which they were taken to Springfield, Ill. + Halting at the principal cities along the route, that appropriate honors + might be paid to the deceased, the funeral cortege arrived on the 3d of + May at Springfield, Ill., and the next day the remains were deposited in + Oak Ridge Cemetery, near that city. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> +<h3> + GUARD OF HONOR. +</h3> +<center> + [From official records, War Department.] +</center> +<center> + GENERAL ORDERS, No. 72. +</center> +<p class="r"> +WAR DEPARTMENT,<br> + ADJUTANT-GENERAL'S OFFICE,<br> + <i>Washington, April 20, 1865</i>. +</p> +<p> + The following general officers and guard of honor will accompany the + remains of the late President from the city of Washington to Springfield, + the capital of the State of Illinois, and continue with them until they are + consigned to their final resting place: +</p> +<p> + Brevet Brigadier-General E.D. Townsend, Assistant Adjutant-General, + to represent the Secretary of War. +</p> +<p> + Brevet Brigadier-General Charles Thomas, Assistant + Quartermaster-General.<a href="#note-17"><small>17</small></a> +</p> +<p> + Brigadier-General A.B. Eaton, Commissary-General of Subsistence. +</p> +<p> + Brevet Major-General J.G. Barnard, Lieutenant-Colonel of Engineers. +</p> +<p> + Brigadier-General G.D. Ramsay, Ordnance Department. +</p> +<p> + Brigadier-General A.P. Howe, Chief of Artillery. +</p> +<p> + Brevet Brigadier-General D.C. McCallum, Superintendent Military + Railroads. +</p> +<p> + Major-General D. Hunter, United States Volunteers. +</p> +<p> + Brigadier-General J.C. Caldwell, United States Volunteers. +</p> +<p> + Twenty-five picked men, under a captain. +</p> +<p> + By order of the Secretary of War: +</p> +<p class="r"> +E.D. TOWNSEND,<br> + <i>Assistant Adjutant-General</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + + +<center> + [From official records, Navy Department.] +</center> +<center> + SPECIAL ORDER. +</center> +<p class="r"> + April, 20, 1865. +</p> +<p> + The following officers of the Navy and Marine Corps will accompany the + remains of the late President from the city of Washington to + Springfield, the capital of the State of Illinois, and continue with + them until they are consigned to their final resting place: +</p> +<p> + Rear-Admiral Charles Henry Davis, Chief Bureau Navigation. +</p> +<p> + Captain William Rogers Taylor, United States Navy. +</p> +<p> + Major Thomas V. Field, United States Marine Corps. +</p> +<p class="r"> +GIDEON WELLES,<br> + <i>Secretary of the Navy</i>. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<h3> + ACTION OF CONGRESS. +</h3> +<center> + [From Appendix to Memorial Address on the Life and Character of Abraham + Lincoln.] +</center> +<p> + President Johnson, in his annual message to Congress at the commencement + of the session of 1865-66, thus announced the death of his predecessor: +</p> +<p class="q"> + To express gratitude to God in the name of the people for the + preservation of the United States is my first duty in addressing you. + Our thoughts next revert to the death of the late President by an act of + parricidal treason. The grief of the nation is still fresh. It finds + some solace in the consideration that he lived to enjoy the highest + proof of its confidence by entering on the renewed term of the Chief + Magistracy to which he had been elected; that he brought the civil war + substantially to a close; that his loss was deplored in all parts of the + Union, and that foreign nations have rendered justice to his memory. +</p> +<p> + Hon. E.B. Washburne, of Illinois, immediately after the President's + message had been read in the House of Representatives, offered the + following joint resolution, which was unanimously adopted: +</p> +<p class="q"> + <i>Resolved</i>, That a committee of one member from each State represented + in this House be appointed on the part of this House, to join such + committee as may be appointed on the part of the Senate, to consider and + report by what token of respect and affection it may be proper for the + Congress of the United States to express the deep sensibility of the + nation to the event of the decease of their late President, Abraham + Lincoln, and that so much of the message of the President as refers to + that melancholy event be referred to said committee. +</p> +<p> + On motion of Hon. Solomon Foot, the Senate unanimously concurred in the + passage of the resolution, and the following joint committee was + appointed, thirteen on the part of the Senate and one for every State + represented (twenty-four) on the part of the House of Representatives: +</p> +<p> + Senate: Hon. Solomon Foot, Vermont; Hon. Richard Yates, Illinois; Hon. + Benjamin F. Wade, Ohio; Hon. William Pitt Fessenden, Maine; Hon. Henry + Wilson, Massachusetts; Hon. James R. Doolittle, Wisconsin; Hon. James H. + Lane, Kansas; Hon. Ira Harris, New York; Hon. James W. Nesmith, Oregon; + Hon. Henry S. Lane, Indiana; Hon. Waitman T. Willey, West Virginia; Hon. + Charles R. Buckalew, Pennsylvania; Hon. John B. Henderson, Missouri. +</p> +<p> + House of Representatives: Hon. Elihu B. Washburne, Illinois; Hon. James + G. Blaine, Maine; Hon. James W. Patterson, New Hampshire; Hon. Justin S. + Morrill, Vermont; Hon. Nathaniel P. Banks, Massachusetts; Hon. Thomas A. + Jenckes, Rhode Island; Hon. Henry C. Deming, Connecticut; Hon. John A. + Griswold, New York; Hon. Edwin R.V. Wright, New Jersey; Hon. Thaddeus + Stevens, Pennsylvania; Hon. John A. Nicholson, Delaware; Hon. Francis + Thomas, Maryland; Hon. Robert C. Schenck, Ohio; Hon. George S. Shanklin, + Kentucky; Hon. Godlove S. Orth, Indiana; Hon. Joseph W. McClurg, + Missouri; Hon. Fernando C. Beaman, Michigan; Hon. John A. Kasson, Iowa; + Hon. Ithamar C. Sloan, Wisconsin; Hon. William Higby, California; Hon. + William Windom, Minnesota; Hon. J.H.D. Henderson, Oregon; Hon. Sidney + Clarke, Kansas; Hon. Kellian V. Whaley, West Virginia. +</p> +<p> + The joint committee, made the following report, which was concurred in + by both Houses <i>nem. con.</i>: +</p> +<p class="q"> + Whereas the melancholy event of the violent and tragic death of Abraham + Lincoln, late President of the United States, having occurred during the + recess of Congress, and the two Houses sharing in the general grief and + desiring to manifest their sensibility upon the occasion of the public + bereavement: Therefore, +</p><p class="q"> + <i>Be it resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives + concurring)</i>, That the two Houses of Congress will assemble in the Hall + of the House of Representatives on Monday, the 12th day of February + next, that being his anniversary birthday, at the hour of 12 m., and + that, in the presence of the two Houses there assembled, an address upon + the life and character of Abraham Lincoln, late President of the United + States, be pronounced by Hon. Edwin M. Stanton,<a href="#note-18"><small>18</small></a> and that the + President of the Senate <i>pro tempore</i> and the Speaker of the House of + Representatives be requested to invite the President of the United + States, the heads of the several Departments, the judges of the Supreme + Court, the representatives of the foreign governments near this + Government, and such officers of the Army and Navy as have received the + thanks of Congress who may then be at the seat of Government to be + present on the occasion. +</p><p class="q"> + <i>And be it further resolved</i>, That the President of the United States be + requested to transmit a copy of these resolutions to Mrs. Lincoln, and + to assure her of the profound sympathy of the two Houses of Congress for + her deep personal affliction and of their sincere condolence for the + late national bereavement. +</p> +<p> </p><p> </p> + +<p> + [For proclamations of President Johnson recommending, in consequence + of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, late President of the United + States, a day for special humiliation and prayer, see pp, 306-307, and + for Executive order in connection therewith see p. 339. For Executive + order closing the Executive Office and the Departments on the day of + the funeral of the late President, at Springfield, Ill., see p. 335. + For Executive order closing the public offices April 14, 1866, in + commemoration of the assassination of the late President, see p. 440.] +</p> + + +<div style="height: 6em;"><br><br><br><br><br><br></div> +<hr class="full"> +<h2> + Footnotes +</h2> + +<a name="note-1"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>1</u> With confederated tribes of Arapahoe and Cheyenne Indiana + of the Upper Arkansas River. +</p> +<a name="note-2"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>2</u> See p. 22. +</p> +<a name="note-3"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>3</u> James M. Mason and John Slidell, Confederate envoys to + England and France, respectively, and two others. +</p> +<a name="note-4"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>4</u> Relating to assignment of officers of the Army to duty. +</p> +<a name="note-5"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>5</u> Containing a narrative of incidents pertaining to the + government of the Territory of Nevada. +</p> +<a name="note-6"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>6</u> United States commissioner at New Orleans. +</p> +<a name="note-7"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>7</u> Relating to the building of ships of war for the Japanese + Government. +</p> +<a name="note-8"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>8</u> Relating to the use of negroes by the French army in Mexico. +</p> +<a name="note-9"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>9</u> Omitted. +</p> +<a name="note-10"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>10</u> See proclamation dated December 8, 1863, pp. 213-215. +</p> +<a name="note-11"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>11</u> Relating to the amount of money received for the sale of + the Wea trust lands in Kansas, etc. +</p> +<a name="note-12"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>12</u> Relating to the delivery of a person charged with crime + against Spain to the officers of that Government. +</p> +<a name="note-13"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>13</u> Report from the Provost-Marshal-General, showing the result + of the draft to fill a deficiency in the quotas of certain States, and + recommending a repeal of the clause in the enrollment act commonly known + as the three-hundred-dollar clause. +</p> +<a name="note-14"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>14</u> On the subject of compensated plantation labor, public or + private. +</p> +<a name="note-15"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>15</u> Pocket veto. +</p> +<a name="note-16"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>16</u> Entitled "Joint resolution in relation to certain + railroads." +</p> +<a name="note-17"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>17</u> Brevet Brigadier-General James A. Ekin, Quartermaster's + Department, United States Army, substituted. +</p> +<a name="note-18"><!--Note--></a> +<p class="foot"> +<u>18</u> Mr. Stanton having declined, Hon. George Bancroft, of New + York, in response to an invitation from the joint committee, consented + to deliver the address. +</p> + +<div style="height: 6em;"><br><br><br><br><br><br></div> + +<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 12462 ***</div> +</body> +</html> + |