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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Writings of Abraham Lincoln, Volume 7,
+1863-1865, by Abraham Lincoln
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.net
+
+
+Title: The Writings of Abraham Lincoln, Volume 7, 1863-1865
+
+Author: Abraham Lincoln
+
+Release Date: August 16, 2006 [EBook #2659]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK WRITINGS OF LINCOLN ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Widger
+
+
+
+
+
+THE WRITINGS OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN
+
+Volume Seven
+
+1863-1865
+
+
+CONSTITUTIONAL EDITION
+
+
+
+
+OPINION ON THE LOSS OF
+GENERAL R. H. MILROY'S DIVISION.
+
+October 27, 1863.
+
+In June last a division was substantially lost at or near Winchester,
+Va. At the time, it was under General Milroy as immediate commander
+in the field, General Schenck as department commander at Baltimore,
+and General Halleck as general-in-chief at Washington.
+
+General Milroy, as immediate commander, was put in arrest, and
+subsequently a court of inquiry examined chiefly with reference to
+disobedience of orders, and reported the evidence.
+
+The foregoing is a synoptical statement of the evidence, together
+with the judge-advocate-general's conclusions. The disaster, when it
+came, was a surprise to all. It was very well known to Generals
+Shenck and Milroy for some time before, that General Halleck thought
+the division was in great danger of a surprise at Winchester; that it
+was of no service commensurate with the risk it incurred, and that it
+ought to be withdrawn; but, although he more than once advised its
+withdrawal, he never positively ordered it. General Schenck, on the
+contrary, believed the service of the force at Winchester was worth
+the hazard, and so did not positively order its withdrawal until it
+was so late that the enemy cut the wire and prevented the order
+reaching General Milroy.
+
+General Milroy seems to have concurred with General Schenck in the
+opinion that the force should be kept at Winchester at least until
+the approach of danger, but he disobeyed no order upon the subject.
+
+Some question can be made whether some of General Halleck's
+dispatches to General Schenk should not have been construed to be
+orders to withdraw the force, and obeyed accordingly; but no such
+question can be made against General Milroy. In fact, the last order
+he received was to be prepared to withdraw, but not to actually
+withdraw until further order, which further order never reached him.
+
+Serious blame is not necessarily due to any serious disaster, and I
+cannot say that in this case any of the officers are deserving of
+serious blame. No court-martial is deemed necessary or proper in the
+case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL SCHOFIELD.
+
+Private and confidential
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, October 28, 1863.
+
+GENERAL JOHN M. SCHOFIELD:
+
+There have recently reached the War Department, and thence been laid
+before me, from Missouri, three communications, all similar in import
+and identical in object. One of them, addressed to nobody, and
+without place or date, but having the signature of (apparently) the
+writer, is a letter of eight closely written foolscap pages. The
+other two are written by a different person, at St. Joseph, Mo., and
+of the dates, respectively, October 12 and 13, 1863, and each
+inclosing a large number of affidavits. The general statements of
+the whole are that the Federal and State authorities are arming the
+disloyal and disarming the loyal, and that the latter will all be
+killed or driven out of the State unless there shall be a change. In
+particular, no loyal man who has been disarmed is named, but the
+affidavits show by name forty-two persons as disloyal who have been
+armed. They are as follows: [The names are omitted.]
+
+A majority of these are shown to have been in the rebel service. I
+believe it could be shown that the government here has deliberately
+armed more than ten times as many captured at Gettysburg, to say
+nothing of similar operations in East Tennessee. These papers
+contain altogether thirty--one manuscript pages, and one newspaper in
+extenso, and yet I do not find it anywhere charged in them that any
+loyal man has been harmed by reason of being disarmed, or that any
+disloyal one has harmed anybody by reason of being armed by the
+Federal or State Government. Of course, I have not had time to
+carefully examine all; but I have had most of them examined and
+briefed by others, and the result is as stated. The remarkable fact
+that the actual evil is yet only anticipated--inferred--induces me to
+suppose I understand the case; but I do not state my impression,
+because I might be mistaken, and because your duty and mine is plain
+in any event. The locality of nearly all this seems to be St.
+Joseph and Buchanan County.  I wish you to give special attention to
+this region, particularly on election day. Prevent violence from
+whatever quarter, and see that the soldiers themselves do no wrong.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+[Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., October 28, 1863.
+
+HON. ANDREW JOHNSON, Nashville, Tenn.:
+If not too inconvenient, please come at once and have a personal
+conversation with me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO VICE-PRESIDENT HAMLIN.
+
+AN ACT TO REGULATE THE DUTIES OF THE CLERK OF THE HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES IN PREPARING FOR THE ORGANIZATION OF THE HOUSE.
+
+Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+United States of America in Congress assembled, that, before the
+first meeting of the next Congress, and of every subsequent Congress,
+the clerk of the next preceding House of Representatives shall make a
+roll of the Representatives elect, and place thereon the names of all
+persons, and of such persons only, whose credentials show that they
+were regularly elected in accordance with the laws of their States
+respectively, or the laws of the United States.
+
+Approved March 3, 1863.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. W. GRIMES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D.C., October 29, 1863.
+
+HON. JAMES W. GRIMES.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--The above act of Congress was passed, as I suppose,
+for the purpose of shutting out improper applicants for seats in the
+House of Representatives; and I fear there is some danger that it
+will be used to shut out proper ones. Iowa, having an entire Union
+delegation, will be one of the States the attempt will be made, if
+upon any. The Governor doubtless has made out the certificates, and
+they are already in the hands of the members. I suggest that they
+come on with them; but that, for greater caution, you, and perhaps
+Mr. Harlan with you, consult with the Governor, and have an
+additional set made out according to the form on the other half of
+this sheet; and still another set, if you can, by studying the law,
+think of a form that in your judgment, promises additional security,
+and quietly bring the whole on with you, to be used in case of
+necessity. Let what you do be kept still.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO P. F. LOWE.
+[Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., October 30, 1863.
+
+HON. F. F. LOWE, San Francisco, Cal.:
+
+Below is an act of Congress, passed last session, intended to exclude
+applicants not entitled to seats, but which, there is reason to fear,
+will be used to exclude some who are entitled. Please get with the
+Governor and one or two other discreet friends, study the act
+carefully, and make certificates in two or three forms, according to
+your best judgement, and have them sent to me, so as to multiply the
+chances of the delegation getting their seats. Let it be done
+without publicity. Below is a form which may answer for one. If you
+could procure the same to be done for the Oregon member it might be
+well.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., October 30, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Much obliged for the information about deserters contained in your
+dispatch of yesterday, while I have to beg your pardon for troubling
+you in regard to some of them, when, as it appears by yours, I had
+the means of answering my own questions.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, October 31, 1863.
+
+The Provost-Marshal-General has issued no proclamation at all. He
+has in no form announced anything recently in regard to troops in New
+York, except in his letter to Governor Seymour of October 21, which
+has been published in the newspapers of that State. It has not been
+announced or decided in any form by the Provost-Marshal-General, or
+any one else in authority of the Government, that every citizen who
+has paid his three hundred dollars commutation is liable to be
+immediately drafted again, or that towns that have just raised the
+money to pay their quotas will have again to be subject to similar
+taxation or suffer the operations of the new conscription, nor it is
+probable that the like of them ever will be announced or decided.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO W. H. SEWARD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 1, 1863.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Auburn, N.Y.:
+
+No important news. Details of Hooker's night fight do great credit
+to his command, and particularly to the Eleventh Corps and Geary's
+part of the Twelfth. No discredit on any.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO POSTMASTER-GENERAL BLAIR.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 2, 1863.
+
+HON. MONTGOMERY BLAIR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Some days ago I understood you to say that your
+brother, General Frank Blair, desires 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 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 benefit of the
+country.
+
+This will heal a dangerous schism for him. It will relieve him from
+a dangerous position or 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 time-servers 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 was my brother
+instead of yours.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR BRADFORD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 2, 1863.
+
+His EXCELLENCY A. W. BRADFORD, Governor of Maryland.
+
+SIR:--Yours of the 31st ult. was received yesterday about noon, and
+since then I have been giving most earnest attention to the
+subject-matter of it. At my call General Schenck has attended, and he
+assures me it is almost certain that violence will be used at some of
+the voting places on election day unless prevented by his
+provost-guards. He says that at some of those places Union voters will
+not attend at all, or run a ticket, unless they have some assurance of
+protection.  This makes the Missouri case, of my action in regard to
+which you express your approval.
+
+The remaining point of your letter is a protest against any person
+offering to vote being put to any test not found in the laws of
+Maryland. This brings us to a difference between Missouri and
+Maryland. With the same reason in both States, Missouri has, by law,
+provided a test for the voter with reference to the present
+rebellion, while Maryland has not. For example, General Trimble,
+captured fighting us at Gettysburg, is, without recanting his
+treason, a legal voter by the laws of Maryland. Even General
+Schenck's order admits him to vote, if he recants upon oath. I think
+that is cheap enough. My order in Missouri, which you approve, and
+General Scherick's order here, reach precisely the same end. Bach
+assures the right of voting to all loyal men, and whether a man is
+loyal, each allows that man to fix by his own oath. Your suggestion
+that nearly all the candidates are loyal, I do not think quite meets
+the case. In this struggle for the nation's life, I cannot so
+confidently rely on those whose elections may have depended upon
+disloyal votes. Such men, when elected, may prove true; but such
+votes are given them in the expectation that they will prove false.
+
+Nor do I think that to keep the peace at the polls, and to prevent
+the persistently disloyal from voting, constitutes just cause of
+offense to Maryland. I think she has her own example for it. If I
+mistake not, it is precisely what General Dix did when your
+Excellency was elected Governor.
+
+I revoke the first of the three propositions in General Schenek's
+General Order No. 53; not that it is wrong in principle, but because
+the military, being of necessity exclusive judges as to who shall be
+arrested, the provision is too liable to abuse. For the revoked part
+I substitute the following:
+
+That, all provost-marshals and other military officers do prevent all
+disturbance and violence at or about the polls, whether offered by
+such persons as above described, or by any other person or persons
+whomsoever.
+
+The other two propositions of the order I allow to stand. General
+Schenek is fully determined, and has my strict orders besides, that
+all loyal men may vote, and vote for whom they please.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. H. HACKETT
+[Private.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+November 2, 1863.
+
+JAMES H. HACKETT.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Yours of October 22d is received, as also was, in due
+course, that of October 3d. I look forward with pleasure to the
+fulfillment of the promise made in the former to visit Washington the
+following winter and to "call."
+
+Give yourself no uneasiness on the subject mentioned in that
+of the 22d. My note to you I certainly did not expect to see in
+print, yet I have not been much shocked by the newspaper comments
+upon it.
+
+Those comments constitute a fair specimen of what has occurred
+to me through life. I have endured a great deal of ridicule, without
+much malice; and have received a great deal of kindness not quite
+free from ridicule. I am used to it.
+
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO W. H. SEWARD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, November 3, 1863.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Auburn, N. Y.:
+
+Nothing new. Dispatches up to 12 last night from Chattanooga show
+all quiet and doing well. How is your son?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 3, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Samuel Wellers, private in Company B, Forty-ninth Pennsylvania
+Volunteers, writes that he is to be shot for desertion on the 6th
+instant. His own story is rather a bad one, and yet he tells it so
+frankly, that I am somewhat interested in him. Has he been a good
+soldier except the desertion? About how old is he?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE, MANSION
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 5, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Please suspend the execution of Samuel Wellers, Forty-ninth
+Pennsylvania Volunteers, until further orders.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL A. E. BURNSIDE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, November 9, 1863.4 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURNSIDE, Knoxville, Tenn.:
+
+Have seen dispatch from General Grant about your loss at Rogersville.
+Per contra, about the same time, Averell and Duffle got considerable
+advantage of the enemy at and about Lewisburg, Virginia: and on
+Saturday, the seventh, Meade drove the enemy from Rappahannock
+Station and Kelly's Ford, capturing eight battle-flags, four guns,
+and over 1800 prisoners, with very little loss to himself. Let me
+hear from you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. G. MEADE.
+WASHINGTON, November 9, 1863 7.30 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE:
+
+I have seen your dispatches about operations on the Rappahannock on
+Saturday, and I wish to say, "Well done!" Do the 1500 prisoners
+reported by General Sedgwick include the 400 taken by General French,
+or do the Whole amount to 1900?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE EXPORT OF TOBACCO PURCHASED BY FOREIGN NATIONS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, November 10, 1863.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SCHOFIELD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 10, 1863.
+
+GENERAL SCHOFIELD, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+ I see a dispatch here from Saint Louis, which is a little difficult
+for me to understand. It says "General Schofield has refused leave
+of absence to members in military service to attend the legislature.
+All such are radical and administration men. The election of two
+Senators from this place on Thursday will probably turn upon this
+thing." what does this mean? Of course members of the legislation
+must be allowed to attend its sessions. But how is there a session
+before the recent election returns are in? And how is it to be at
+"this place"--and that is Saint Louis? Please inform me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SCHOFIELD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 11, 1863.
+
+GENERAL SCHOFIELD, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+I believe the Secretary of War has telegraphed you about members of
+the legislation. At all events, allow those in the service to attend
+the session, and we can afterward decide whether they can stay
+through the entire session.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HIRAM BARNEY.
+   [Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 11, 1863.
+
+HON. HIRAM BARNEY, New York;
+I would like an interview with you. Can you not come?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. MILDERBORGER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 11, 1863.
+
+JOHN MILDERBORGER, Peru, Ind.:
+
+I cannot comprehend the object of your dispatch. I do not often
+decline seeing people who call upon me, and probably will see you if
+you call.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM to E. H. AND E. JAMESON.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 13, 1863.
+
+E. H. and E. JAMESON, Jefferson City, Mo.:
+
+Yours saying Brown and Henderson are elected Senators is received. I
+understand this is one and one. If so it is knocking heads together
+to some.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, November 14, 1863. 12.15 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Cincinnati, Ohio:
+
+I have received and considered your dispatch of yesterday. Of the
+reports you mention, I have not the means of seeing any except your
+own. Besides this, the publication might be improper in view of the
+court of inquiry which has been ordered. With every disposition, not
+merely to do justice, but to oblige you, I feel constrained to say I
+think the publications better not be made now.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BURNSIDE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, November 16, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURNSIDE, Knoxville, Tenn.:
+
+What is the news?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY CHASE
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, November 17, 1863.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I expected to see you here at Cabinet meeting, and to
+say something about going to Gettysburg. There will be a train to
+take and return us. The time for starting is not yet fixed, but when
+it shall be I will notify you.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS AT GETTYSBURG
+
+NOVEMBER 19, 1863.
+
+Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this
+continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the
+proposition that all men are created equal.
+
+Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation
+or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are
+met on a great battle-field of that war.  We have come to dedicate a
+portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here
+gave their lives that that nation might live.  It is altogether
+fitting and proper that we should do this.
+
+But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate--we can not consecrate
+--we can not hallow--this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who
+struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add
+or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we
+say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us
+the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which
+they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather
+for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us
+--that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause
+for which they gave the last full measure of devotion that we here
+highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain--that this
+nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom--and that
+government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not
+perish from the earth.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 20, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+If there is a man by the name of King under sentence to be shot,
+please suspend execution till further order, and send record.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON. November 20, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+An intelligent woman in deep distress, called this morning, saying
+her husband, a lieutenant in the Army of Potomac, was to be shot next
+Monday for desertion, and putting a letter in my hand, upon which I
+relied for particulars, she left without mentioning a name or other
+particular by which to identify the case. On opening the letter I
+found it equally vague, having nothing to identify by, except her own
+signature, which seems to be "Mrs. Anna S. King." I could not again
+find her. If you have a case which you shall think is probably the
+one intended, please apply my dispatch of this morning to it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO E. P. EVANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 23, 1863.
+
+E. P. EVANS, West Union, Adams County, Ohio:
+
+Yours to Governor Chase in behalf of John A Welch is before me. Can
+there be a worse case than to desert and with letters persuading
+others to desert? I cannot interpose without a better showing than
+you make. When did he desert? when did he write the letters?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 23, 1863.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Two despatches since I saw you; one not quite so late
+on firing as we had before, but giving the points that Burnside
+thinks he can hold the place, that he is not closely invested, and
+that he forages across the river. The other brings the firing up to
+11 A.M. yesterday, being twenty-three hours later than we had before.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, November 25, 1863. 8.40 A.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL U.S. GRANT:
+
+Your despatches as to fighting on Monday and Tuesday are here. Well
+done! Many thanks to all. Remember Burnside.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO C. P. KIRKLAND.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 7, 1863.
+
+CHARLES P. KIRKLAND, ESQ., New York:
+
+I have just received and have read your published letter to the HON.
+Benjamin R. Curtis. Under the circumstances I may not be the most
+competent judge, but it appears to me to be a paper of great ability,
+and for the country's sake more than for my own I thank you for it.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANNOUNCEMENT OF UNION SUCCESS IN EAST TENNESSEE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+December 7, 1863.
+
+Reliable information being received that the insurgent force is
+retreating from East Tennessee, under circumstances rendering it
+probable that the Union forces cannot 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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OF AMNESTY AND RECONSTRUCTION
+DECEMBER 8, 1863.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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,
+
+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
+
+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
+
+Whereas the Congressional declaration for limited and conditional
+pardon accords with well-established judicial exposition of the
+pardoning power; and
+
+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
+
+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:
+
+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:
+
+"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."
+
+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.
+
+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 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."
+
+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.
+
+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 co and which may be deemed
+expedient by those framing the new State government.
+
+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 re-established 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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+ANNUAL MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+DECEMBER 8, 1863.
+
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES:--Another year of health, and of sufficiently
+abundant harvests, has passed. For these, and especially for the
+improved condition cf our national affairs, our renewed and
+profoundest gratitude to God is due.
+
+We remain in peace and friendship with foreign powers.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 of 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The joint commission under the act of the last session of 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.
+
+Difficulties concerning interoceanic transit through Nicaragua are in
+course of amicable adjustment.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 estoppe
+against any plea of exemption from military service or other civil
+obligation on the ground of alienage.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The report of the Secretary of War is a document of great interest.
+It consists of:
+
+1. The military operations of the year, detailed in the report of the
+General in Chief.
+2. The organization of colored persons into the war service.
+3. The exchange of prisoners, fully set forth in the letter of General
+Hitchcock.
+4. The operations under the act for enrolling and calling out the
+national forces, detailed in the report of the Provost Marshal
+General.
+5. The organization of the invalid corps, and
+6. The operation of the several departments of the Quartermaster-
+General, Commissary-General, Paymaster-General, Chief of Engineers,
+Chief of Ordnance, and Surgeon-General.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The naval force of the United States consists at this time of five
+hundred and eighty-eight vessels completed and in the course of
+completion, and of these seventy-five 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 that those of 1863.
+The decrease since 1860 in the annual amount of transportation has
+been only about twenty-five per cent, but the annual expenditure on
+account of the same has been reduced thirty-five 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+I commend the benevolent institutions established or patronized by
+the Government in this District to your generous and fostering care.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 are 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, dispute now only as to the best mode of
+removing it within their own limits.
+
+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, criticized, 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.
+
+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. 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 promised a pardon only 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 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 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 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+WASHINGTON D. C., December 8, 1863.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend
+that Captain John Rogers 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 Fingal, alias
+Atlanta, whilst in command of the United States ironclad steamer
+Weehawken, 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.
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE SENATE.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 8, 1863.
+
+TO THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, December 8, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL GRANT:
+Understanding that your lodgment at Chattanooga and Knoxville is now
+secure, I wish to tender you, and all under your command, my more
+than thanks, my profoundest gratitude, for the skill, courage, and
+perseverance with which you and they, over so great difficulties,
+have effected that important object. God bless you all!
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR CURTIN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 9, 1863
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY A. G. CURTIN,
+Governor of Pennsylvania.
+DEAR SIR:--I have to urge my illness, and the preparation of the
+message, in excuse for not having sooner transmitted you the inclosed
+from the Secretary of War and Provost Marshal General in response to
+yours in relation to recruiting in Pennsylvania.  Though not quite
+as you desire, I hope the grounds taken will be reasonably
+satisfactory to you. Allow me to exchange congratulations with you
+on the organization of the House of Representatives, and especially
+on recent military events in Georgia and Tennessee.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 10, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Please suspend execution in any and all sentences of death in your
+department until further order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 11, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Lieut. Col. James B. Knox, Tenth Regiment Pennsylvania Reserves,
+offers his resignation under circumstances inducing me to wish to
+accept it. But I prefer to know your pleasure upon the subject.
+Please answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO JUDGE HOFFMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+December 15, 1863.
+
+HON. OGDEN HOFFMAN, U. S. District Judge, San Francisco, Cal.:
+
+The oath in the proclamation of December 8 is intended for those who
+may voluntarily take it, and not for those who may be constrained to
+take it in order to escape actual imprisonment or punishment. It is
+intended that the latter class shall abide the granting or
+withholding of the pardoning power in the ordinary way.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MARY GONYEAG.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 15, 1863.
+
+MOTHER MARY GONYEAG, Superior, Academy of Visitation,
+Keokuk, Iowa:
+
+The President has no authority as to whether you may raffle for the
+benevolent object you mention. If there is no objection in the Iowa
+laws, there is none here.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING DISCRIMINATING DUTIES,
+DECEMBER 16, 1863.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+Whereas satisfactory evidence has lately been received by me through
+an official communication of Senor 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 second 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:
+
+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
+the 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.
+
+Given under my hand at the city of Washington, the sixteenth day of
+December, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and
+sixty-three, and the eighty-eighth of the Independence of the United
+States.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+DECEMBER 17, 1863.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL HURLBUT.
+[Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 17, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HURLBUT, Memphis, Tenn.:
+
+I understand you have under sentence of death, a tall old man, by the
+name of Henry F. Luckett. I personally knew him, and did not think
+him a bad man.  Please do not let him be executed unless upon
+further order from me, and in the meantime send me a transcript of
+the record.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, December 19, 1863.
+
+GENERAL GRANT, Chattanooga, Tennessee:
+
+The Indiana delegation in Congress, or at least a large part of them,
+are very anxious that General Milroy shall enter active service
+again, and I share in this feeling. He is not a difficult man to
+satisfy, sincerity and courage being his strong traits. Believing in
+our cause, and wanting to fight for it, is the whole matter with him.
+Could you, without embarrassment, assign him a place, if directed to
+report to you?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+(Private.)
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 21, 1863.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Sending a note to the Secretary of the Navy, as I
+promised, he called over and said that the strikes in the ship-yards
+had thrown the completion of vessels back so much that he thought
+General Gilimore's proposition entirely proper. He only wishes (and
+in which I concur) that General Gillmore will courteously confer
+with, and explain to, Admiral Dahlgren.
+
+In regard to the Western matter, I believe the program will have to
+stand substantially as I first put it. Henderson, and especially
+Brown, believe that the social influence of St. Louis would
+inevitably tell injuriously upon General Pope in the particular
+difficulty existing there, and I think there is some force in that
+view.
+
+As to retaining General Schofield temporarily, if this should be
+done, I believe I should scarcely be able to get his nomination
+through the Senate. Send me over his nomination, which, however, I
+am not quite ready to send to the Senate.
+
+Yours as ever,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO O. D. FILLEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 22, 1863.
+
+O. D. FILLEY, ST. Louis, Missouri:
+
+I have just looked over a petition signed by some three dozen
+citizens of St. Louis, and three accompanying letters, one by
+yourself, one by a Mr. Nathan Ranney, and one by a Mr. John D.
+Coalter, the whole relating to the Rev. Dr. McPheeters. The
+petition prays, in the name of justice and mercy, that I will restore
+Dr. McPheeters to all his ecclesiastical rights.  This gives no
+intimation as to what ecclesiastical rights are withheld.
+
+Your letter states that Provost-Marshal Dick, about a year ago,
+ordered the arrest of Dr. McPheeters, pastor of the Vine Street
+Church, prohibited him from officiating, and placed the management of
+the affairs of the church out of the control of its chosen trustees;
+and near the close you state that a certain course "would insure his
+release." Mr. Ranney's letter says: "Dr. Samuel S. McPheeters is
+enjoying all the rights of a civilian, but cannot preach the
+Gospel!!!!" Mr. Coalter, in his letter, asks: "Is it not a strange
+illustration of the condition of things, that the question of who
+shall be allowed to preach in a church in St. Louis shall be decided
+by the President of the United States?"
+
+Now, all this sounds very strangely; and, withal, a little as if you
+gentlemen making the application do not understand the case alike;
+one affirming that the doctor is enjoying all the rights of a
+civilian, and another pointing out to me what will secure his
+release! On the second day of January last, I wrote to General Curtis
+in relation to Mr. Dick's order upon Dr. McPheeters; and, as I
+suppose the doctor is enjoying all the rights of a civilian, I only
+quote that part of my letter which relates to the church. It is as
+follows: "But I must add that the United States Government must not,
+as by this order, undertake to run the churches. When an individual,
+in a church or out of it, becomes dangerous to the public interest,
+he must be checked; but the churches, as such, must take care of
+themselves. It will not do for the United States to appoint
+trustees, supervisors, or other agents for the churches."
+
+This letter going to General Curtis, then in command there, I
+supposed, of course, it was obeyed, especially as I heard no further
+complaint from Dr. McPheeters or his friends for nearly an entire
+year. I have never interfered, nor thought of interfering, as to who
+shall or shall not preach in any church; nor have I knowingly or
+believingly tolerated any one else to so interfere by my authority.
+If any one is so interfering by color of my authority, I would like
+to have it specifically made known to me.  If, after all, what is
+now sought is to have me put Dr. McPheeters back over the heads of a
+majority of his own congregation, that, too, will be declined. I
+will not have control of any church on any side.
+
+Yours respectfully,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MILITARY COMMANDER AT POINT LOOKOUT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 22, 1863.
+
+MILITARY COMMANDER, Point Lookout, Md.:
+
+If you have a prisoner by the name Linder--Daniel Linder, I think,
+and certainly the son of U. F. Linder, of Illinois, please send him
+to me by an officer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MILITARY COMMANDER AT POINT LOOKOUT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 24, 1863.
+
+MILITARY COMMANDER, Point Lookout, Md.:
+
+If you send Linder to me as directed a day or two ago, also send
+Edwin C. Claybrook, of Ninth Virginia rebel cavalry.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO U. F. LINDER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON D. C., December 26, 1863.
+
+HON. U. F. LINDER, Chicago, Ill.:
+Your son Dan has just left me with my order to the Secretary of War,
+to administer to him the oath of allegiance, discharge him and send
+him to you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL N. P. BANKS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 29, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BANKS:
+
+Yours of the sixteenth is received, and I send you, as covering the
+ground of it, a copy of my answer to yours of the sixth, it being
+possible the original may not reach you. I intend you to be master
+in every controversy made with you.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 30, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Jacob Bowers is fully pardoned for past offence, upon condition that
+he returns to duty and re-enlists for three years or during the war.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, December 31, 1863.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+SIR:--Please fix up the department to which Curtis is to go, without
+waiting to wind up the Missouri matter. Lane is very anxious to have
+Fort Smith in it, and I am willing, unless there be decided military
+reasons to the contrary, in which case of course, I am not for it.
+It will oblige me to have the Curtis department fixed at once.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+1864
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SULLIVAN.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D.C., January 1, 1864. 3.30 p.m.
+
+GENERAL SULLIVAN, Harper's Ferry:
+
+Have you anything new from Winchester, Martinsburg or thereabouts?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR PIERPOINT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 2, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR PIERPOINT, Alexandria, Va.:
+
+Please call and see me to-day if not too inconvenient.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 2, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+SIR:--The Secretary of War and myself have concluded to discharge of
+the prisoners at Point Lookout the following classes: First, those
+who will take the oath prescribed in the proclamation of December 8,
+and issued by the consent of General Marston, will enlist in our
+service. Second, those who will take the oath and be discharged and
+whose homes lie safely within our military lines.
+
+I send by Mr. Hay this letter and a blank-book and some other blanks,
+the way of using which I propose for him to explain verbally better
+than I can in writing.
+
+Yours, very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 5, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE:
+
+If not inconsistent with the service, please allow General William
+Harrow as long a leave of absence as the rules permit with the
+understanding that I may lengthen it if I see fit. He is an
+acquaintance and friend of mine, and his family matters very urgently
+require his presence.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+JANUARY 5, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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 three hundred dollars 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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 6, 1864. 2 P.M.
+
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Kentucky:
+
+Yours of yesterday received. Nothing is known here about General
+Foster's order, of which you complain, beyond the fair presumption
+that it comes from General Grant, and that it has an object which, if
+you understood, you would be loath to frustrate. True, these troops
+are, in strict law, only to be removed by my order; but General
+Grant's judgment would be the highest incentive to me to make such
+order. Nor can I understand how doing so is bad faith and dishonor,
+nor yet how it so exposes Kentucky to ruin. Military men here do not
+perceive how it exposes Kentucky, and I am sure Grant would not
+permit it if it so appeared to him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL Q. A. GILLMORE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 13, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL GILLMORE:
+
+I understand an effort is being made by some worthy gentlemen to
+reconstruct a legal State government in Florida.  Florida is in your
+Department, and it is not unlikely you may be there in person. I
+have given Mr. Hay a commission of major, and sent him to you, with
+some blank-books and other blanks, to aid in the reconstruction. He
+will explain as to the manner of using the blanks, and also my
+general views on the subject. It is desirable for all to co-operate,
+but if irreconcilable differences of opinion shall arise, you are
+master. I wish the thing done in the most speedy way, so that when
+done it be within the range of the late proclamation on the subject.
+The detail labor will, of course, have to be done by others; but I
+will be greatly obliged if you will give it such general supervision
+as you can find consistent with your more strictly military duties.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BROUGH.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 15, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BROUGH, Columbus, Ohio:
+
+If Private William G. Toles, of Fifty-ninth Ohio Volunteers, returns
+to his regiment and faithfully serves out his term, he is fully
+pardoned for all military offenses prior to this.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO CROSBY AND NICHOLS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 16, 1864.
+
+MESSRS. CROSBY AND NICHOLS.
+
+GENTLEMEN: The number for this month and year of the North American
+Review was duly received, and for which please accept my thanks. Of
+course I am not the most impartial judge; yet, with due allowance for
+this, I venture to hope that the article entitled "The President's
+Policy" will be of value to the country. I fear I am not worthy of
+all which is therein kindly said of me personally.
+
+The sentence of twelve lines, commencing at the top of page 252, I
+could wish to be not exactly what it is. In what is there expressed,
+the writer has not correctly understood me. I have never had a
+theory that secession could absolve States or people from their
+obligations. Precisely the contrary is asserted in the inaugural
+address; and it was because of my belief in the continuation of those
+obligations that I was puzzled, for a time, as to denying the legal
+rights of those citizens who remained individually innocent of
+treason or rebellion. But I mean no more now than to merely call
+attention to this point.
+
+Yours respectfully,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL P. STEELE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 20, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE:
+
+Sundry citizens of the State of Arkansas petition me that an election
+may be held in that State, at which to elect a Governor; that it be
+assumed at that election, and thenceforward, that the constitution
+and laws of the State, as before the rebellion, are in full force,
+except that the constitution is so modified as to declare that there
+shall be neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except in the
+punishment of crimes whereof the party shall have been duly
+convicted; that the General Assembly may make such provisions for the
+freed people as shall recognize and declare their permanent freedom,
+and provide for their education, and which may yet be construed as a
+temporary arrangement suitable to their condition as a laboring,
+landless, and homeless class; that said election shall be held on the
+28th of March, 1864, at all the usual places of the State, or all
+such as voters may attend for that purpose, that the voters attending
+at eight o'clock in the morning of said day may choose judges and
+clerks of election for such purpose; that all persons qualified by
+said constitution and laws, and taking the oath presented in the
+President's proclamation of December 8, 1863, either before or at the
+election, and none others, may be voters; that each set of judges and
+clerks may make returns directly to you on or before the __th day of
+____next; that in all other respects said election may be conducted
+according to said constitution and laws: that on receipt of said
+returns, when five thousand four hundred and six votes shall have
+been cast, you can receive said votes, and ascertain all who shall
+thereby appear to have been elected; that on the ___th day of
+_______next, all persons so appearing to have been elected, who shall
+appear before you at Little Rock, and take the oath, to be by you
+severally administered, to support the Constitution of the United
+States and said modified Constitution of the State of Arkansas, may
+be declared by you qualified and empowered to enter immediately upon
+the duties of the offices to which they shall have been respectively
+elected.
+
+You will please order an election to take place on the 28th of March,
+1864, and returns to be made in fifteen days thereafter.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS, JANUARY 20, 1864
+
+GENTLEMEN OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER APPROVING TRADE REGULATIONS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 26, 1864.
+
+I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States having seen and
+considered the additional regulations of trade prescribed by the
+Secretary of the Treasury, and numbered LI, LII, LIII, LIV, LV, and
+LVI, do hereby approve the same; and I further declare and order that
+all property brought in for sale, in good faith, and actually sold in
+pursuance of said Regulations LII, LIII, LIV, LV, and LVI,
+after the same shall have taken effect and come in force as provided
+in Regulation LVI, shall be exempt from confiscation or forfeiture to
+the United States.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL FOSTER.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., January 27, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL FOSTER, Knoxville, Tenn.:
+
+Is a supposed correspondence between General Longstreet and yourself
+about the amnesty proclamation, which is now in the newspapers,
+genuine?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO E. STANLEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 28, 1864
+
+HON. EDWARD STANLEY, San Francisco, Cal.:
+
+Yours of yesterday received. We have rumors similar to the dispatch
+received by you, but nothing very definite from North Carolina.
+Knowing Mr. Stanley to be an able man, and not doubting that he is a
+patriot, I should be glad for him to be with his old acquaintances
+south of Virginia, but I am unable to suggest anything definite upon
+the subject.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL H. W. HALLECK.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, January 28, 1864.
+MAJOR-GENERAL HALLECK:
+
+Some citizens of Missouri, vicinity of Kansas City, are apprehensive
+that there is special danger of renewed troubles in that
+neighborhood, and thence on the route toward New Mexico. I am not
+impressed that the danger is very great or imminent, but I will thank
+you to give Generals Rosecrans and Curtis, respectively, such orders
+as may turn their attention thereto and prevent as far as possible
+the apprehended disturbance.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SICKLES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 29, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SICKLES, New York:
+
+Could you, without it being inconvenient or disagreeable to yourself,
+immediately take a trip to Arkansas for me?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 31, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Ky.:
+
+General Boyle's resignation is accepted, so that your Excellency can
+give him the appointment proposed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+COLONIZATION EXPERIMENT
+
+ORDER TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 1, 1864
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER FOR A DRAFT OF FIVE HUNDRED
+THOUSAND MEN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 1, 1864.
+
+Ordered, That a draft of five hundred thousand (500,000) men, to
+serve for three years or during the war, be made on the tenth (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 first (1st) day of March,
+and not before credited.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR YATES.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 3, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR YATES, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+The United States Government lot in Springfield can be used for a
+soldiers' home, with the understanding that the Government does not
+incur any expense in the case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR MURPHY.
+WASHINGTON, February 6, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR J. MURPHY:
+
+My order to General Steele about an election was made in ignorance of
+the action your convention had taken or would take. A subsequent
+letter directs General Steele to aid you on your own plan, and not to
+thwart or hinder you. Show this to him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION
+
+TOLD BY THE PRESIDENT,
+TO THE ARTIST F. B. CARPENTER,
+FEBRUARY 6, 1864.
+
+"It had got to be," said Mr. Lincoln, "midsummer, 1862. Things had
+gone on from bad to worse, until I felt that we had reached the end
+of our rope on the plan of operations we had been pursuing; that we
+had about played our last card, and must change our tactics, or lose
+the game. I now determined upon the adoption of the emancipation
+policy; and without consultation with, or the knowledge of, the
+Cabinet, I prepared the original draft of the proclamation, and,
+after much anxious thought, called a Cabinet meeting upon the
+subject. This was the last of July or the first part of the month of
+August, 1862.  [The exact date was July 22, 1862.] . . . All
+were present excepting Mr. Blair, the Postmaster-General, who was
+absent at the opening of the discussion, but came in subsequently. I
+said to the Cabinet that I had resolved upon this step, and had not
+called them together to ask their advice, but to lay the
+subject-matter of a proclamation before them, suggestions as to which
+would be in order after they had heard it read.  Mr. Lovejoy was in
+error when he informed you that it excited no comment excepting on the
+part of Secretary Seward. Various suggestions were offered.
+Secretary Chase wished the language stronger in reference to the
+arming of the blacks.
+
+"Mr. Blair, after he came in, deprecated the policy on the ground
+that it would cost the administration the fall elections. Nothing,
+however, was offered that I had not already fully anticipated and
+settled in my mind, until Secretary Seward spoke. He said in
+substance, 'Mr. President, I approve of the proclamation, but I
+question the expediency of its issue at this juncture. The
+depression of the public mind, consequent upon our repeated reverses,
+is so great that I fear the effect of so important a step. It may be
+viewed as the last measure of an exhausted government, a cry for
+help; the government stretching forth its hands to Ethiopia, instead
+of Ethiopia stretching forth her hands to the government.' His
+idea," said the President, "was that it would be considered our last
+shriek on the retreat." [This was his precise expression.] 'Now,'
+continued Mr. Seward, 'while I approve the measure, I suggest, sir,
+that you postpone its issue until you can give it to the country
+supported by military success, instead of issuing it, as would be the
+case now, upon the greatest disasters of the war.' Mr. Lincoln
+continued "The wisdom of the view of the Secretary of State struck me
+with very great force. It was an aspect of the case that, in all my
+thought upon the subject, I had entirely overlooked. The result was
+that I put the draft of the proclamation aside, as you do your sketch
+for a picture, waiting for a victory.
+
+"From time to time I added or changed a line, touching it up here and
+there, anxiously watching the process of events. Well, the next news
+we had was of Pope's disaster at Bull Run. Things looked darker than
+ever. Finally came the week of the battle of Antietam. I determined
+to wait no longer.  The news came, I think, on Wednesday, that the
+advantage was on our side. I was then staying at the Soldiers' Home
+[three miles out of Washington]. Here I finished writing the second
+draft of the preliminary proclamation; came up on Saturday; called
+the Cabinet together to hear it, and it was published on the
+following Monday."
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SEDGWICK.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 11, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SEDGWICK, Army of Potomac:
+
+Unless there be some strong reason to the contrary, please send
+General Kilpatrick to us here, for two or three days.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HORACE MAYNARD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 13, 1864.
+
+HON. HORACE MAYNARD, Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+Your letter of [the] second received. Of course Governor Johnson
+will proceed with reorganization as the exigencies of the case appear
+to him to require. I do not apprehend he will think it necessary to
+deviate from my views to any ruinous extent. On one hasty reading I
+see no such deviation in his program, which you send.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO W. M. FISHBACK.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, February 17, 1864.
+
+WILLIAM M. FISHBACK, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+When I fixed a plan for an election in Arkansas I did it in ignorance
+that your convention was doing the same work. Since I learned the
+latter fact I have been constantly trying to yield my plan to them.
+I have sent two letters to General Steele, and three or four
+despatches to you and others, saying that he, General Steele, must be
+master, but that it will probably be best for him to merely help the
+convention on its own plan. Some single mind must be master, else
+there will be no agreement in anything, and General Steele,
+commanding the military and being on the ground, is the best man to
+be that master. Even now citizens are telegraphing me to postpone
+the election to a later day than either that fixed by the convention
+or by me. This discord must be silenced.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL STEELE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 17, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+The day fixed by the convention for the election is probably the
+best, but you on the ground, and in consultation with gentlemen
+there, are to decide. I should have fixed no day for an election,
+presented no plan for reconstruction, had I known the convention was
+doing the same things. It is probably best that you merely assist
+the convention on their own plan, as to election day and all other
+matters I have already written and telegraphed this half a dozen
+times.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO A. ROBINSON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 18, 1864.
+
+A. ROBINSON, Leroy, N. Y.:
+
+The law only obliges us to keep accounts with States, or at most
+Congressional Districts, and it would overwhelm us to attempt in
+counties, cities and towns. Nevertheless we do what we can to oblige
+in particular cases. In this view I send your dispatch to the
+Provost-Marshal General, asking him to do the best he can for you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING BLOCKADE,
+FEBRUARY 18, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+Whereas, by my proclamation of the nineteenth of April, one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-one, 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
+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:
+
+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; sail-cloth of all kinds, hemp
+and cordage, intoxicating drinks other than beer and light native
+wines.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed. Done at the city of Washington,
+this eighteenth day of February, in the year of our Lord one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United
+States the eighty-eighth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COMMANDER BLAKE.
+EXECUTIVE, MANSION, February 19, 1864.
+
+COMMANDER GEORGE S. BLAKE,
+Commandant Naval Academy, Newport, R. I.:
+
+I desire the case of Midshipman C. Lyon re-examined and if not
+clearly inconsistent I shall be much obliged to have the
+recommendation changed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM WARREN JORDAN.
+NASHVILLE, February 20, 1864.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Secretary of State, Washington, D.C.:
+
+In county and State elections, must citizens of Tennessee take the
+oath prescribed by Governor Johnson, or will the President's oath of
+amnesty entitle them to vote? I have been appointed to hold the March
+election in Cheatham County, and wish to act understandingly.
+
+WARREN JORDAN.
+
+
+
+
+WASHINGTON, February 20, 1864.
+
+WARREN JORDAN, NASHVILLE:
+
+In county elections you had better stand by Governor Johnson's plan;
+otherwise you will have conflict and confusion. I have seen his
+plan.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 22, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Saint LOUIS, MO.:
+
+Colonel Sanderson will be ordered to you to-day, a mere omission that
+it was not done before. The other questions in your despatch I am not
+yet prepared to answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL STEELE.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 22, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Ark.:
+
+Yours of yesterday received. Your conference with citizens approved.
+Let the election be on the 14th of March as they agreed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL F. STEELE.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, February 25, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+General Sickles is not going to Arkansas. He probably will make a
+tour down the Mississippi and home by the gulf and ocean, but he will
+not meddle in your affairs.
+
+At one time I did intend to have him call on you and explain more
+fully than I could do by letter or telegraph, so as to avoid a
+difficulty coming of my having made a plan here, while the convention
+made one there, for reorganizing Arkansas; but even his doing that
+has been given up for more than two weeks. Please show this to
+Governor Murphy to save me telegraphing him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+DESERTERS DEATH SENTENCES REMITTED
+
+GENERAL ORDERS, NO.76.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
+
+WASHINGTON, February 26, 1864.
+
+Sentence of Deserters.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Copies of all orders issued under the foregoing instructions will be
+immediately forwarded to the Adjutant-General and to the
+Judge-Advocate General.
+
+By order of the Secretary of War:
+B. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General
+
+
+
+
+FEMALE SPY
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 26, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort. Monroe, Va.:
+
+I cannot remember at whose request it was that I gave the pass to
+Mrs. Bulky. Of course detain her, if the evidence of her being a spy
+is strong against her.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO W. JAYNE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 26, 1864.
+
+HON. W. JAYNE.
+
+DEAR SIR--I dislike to make changes in office so long as they can be
+avoided. It multiplies my embarrassments immensely. I dislike two
+appointments when one will do. Send me the name of some man not the
+present marshal, and I will nominate him to be Provost-Marshal for
+Dakota.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO E. H. EAST.
+
+WASHINGTON, February 27, 1864.
+
+HON. E. H: EAST, Secretary of State, Nashville, Tennessee
+
+Your telegram of the twenty-sixth instant asking for a copy of my
+despatch to Warren Jordan, Esq., at Nashville Press office, has just
+been referred to me by Governor Johnson. In my reply to Mr. Jordan,
+which was brief and hurried, I intended to say that in the county and
+State elections of Tennessee, the oath prescribed in the proclamation
+of Governor Johnson on the twenty-sixth of January, 1864, ordering an
+election in Tennessee on the first Saturday in March next, is
+entirely satisfactory to me as a test of loyalty of all persons
+proposing or offering to vote in said elections; and coming from him
+would better be observed and followed. There is no conflict between
+the oath of amnesty in my proclamation of eighth December, 1863, and
+that prescribed by Governor Johnson in his proclamation of the
+twenty-sixth ultimo.
+
+No person who has taken the oath of amnesty of eighth December, 1863,
+and obtained a pardon thereby, and who intends to observe the same in
+good faith, should have any objection to taking that prescribed by
+Governor Johnson as a test of loyalty.
+
+I have seen and examined Governor Johnson's proclamation, and am
+entirely satisfied with his plan, which is to restore the State
+government and place it under the control of citizens truly loyal to
+the Government of the United States.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+Please send above to Governor Johnson.
+A. L.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 27, 1864
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+SIR:--You ask some instructions from me in relation to the Report of
+Special Commission constituted by an order of the War Department,
+dated December 5, 1863, "to revise the enrolment and quotas of the
+City and State of New York, and report whether there be any, and
+what, errors or irregularities therein, and what corrections, if any,
+should be made."
+
+In the correspondence between the Governor of New York and myself
+last summer, I understood him to complain that the enrolments in
+several of the districts of that State had been neither accurately
+nor honestly made; and in view of this, I, for the draft then
+immediately ensuing, ordered an arbitrary reduction of the quotas in
+several of the districts wherein they seemed too large, and said:
+"After this drawing, these four districts, and also the seventeenth
+and twenty-ninth, shall be carefully re-enrolled, and, if you please,
+agents of yours may witness every step of the process." In a
+subsequent letter I believe some additional districts were put into
+the list of those to be re-enrolled. My idea was to do the work over
+according to the law, in presence of the complaining party, and
+thereby to correct anything which might be found amiss. The
+commission, whose work I am considering, seem to have proceeded upon
+a totally different idea. Not going forth to find men at all, they
+have proceeded altogether upon paper examinations and mental
+processes. One of their conclusions, as I understand, is that, as
+the law stands, and attempting to follow it, the enrolling officers
+could not have made the enrolments much more accurately than they
+did. The report on this point might be useful to Congress. The
+commission conclude that the quotas for the draft should be based
+upon entire population, and they proceed upon this basis to give a
+table for the State of New York, in which some districts are reduced
+and some increased. For the now ensuing draft, let the quotas stand
+as made by the enrolling officers, in the districts wherein this
+table requires them to be increased; and let them be reduced
+according to the table in the others: this to be no precedent for
+subsequent action. But, as I think this report may, on full
+consideration, be shown to have much that is valuable in it, I
+suggest that such consideration be given it, and that it be
+especially considered whether its suggestions can be conformed to
+without an alteration of the law.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL THOMAS.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, February 28, 1864.
+
+GENERAL L. THOMAS, Louisville, Kentucky:
+
+I see your despatch of yesterday to the Secretary of War.
+
+I wish you would go to the Mississippi River at once, and take hold
+of and be master in the contraband and leasing business. You
+understand it better than any other man does. Mr. Miller's system
+doubtless is well intended, but from what I hear I fear that, if
+persisted in, it would fall dead within its own entangling details.
+Go there and be the judge. A Mr. Lewis will probably follow you with
+something from me on this subject, but do not wait for him. Nor is
+this to induce you to violate or neglect any military order from the
+General-in-Chief or Secretary of War.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY CHASE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 29, 1864.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I would have taken time to answer yours of the 22d
+inst. sooner, only that I did not suppose any evil could result from
+the delay, especially as, by a note, I promptly acknowledged the
+receipt of yours, and promised a fuller answer. Now, on
+consideration I find there is really very little to say. My
+knowledge of Mr. Pomeroy's letter having been made public came to me
+only the day you wrote; but I had, in spite of myself, known of its
+existence several days before. I have not yet read it, and I think I
+shall not. I was not shocked or surprised by the appearance of the
+letter, because I had had knowledge of Mr. Pomeroy's committee, and
+of secret issues which, I supposed, came from it, and of secret
+agents who, I supposed, were sent out by it for several weeks. I
+have known just as little a these things as my friends have allowed
+me to know. They bring the documents to me, but I do not read them;
+they tell me what they think fit to tell me, but I do not inquire for
+more.
+
+I fully concur with you that neither of us can justly be held
+responsible for what our respective friends may do without our
+instigation or countenance and I assure you, as you have assured me,
+that no assault has been made upon you by my instigation, or with my
+countenance.
+
+Whether you shall remain at the head of the Treasury Department is a
+question which I will not allow myself to consider from any
+standpoint other than my judgment of the public service, and, in that
+view, I do not perceive occasion for a change.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL THOMAS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, March 1,1864.
+
+GENERAL L. THOMAS:
+
+This introduces Mr. Lewis, mentioned in my despatch sent you at
+Louisville some days ago. I have but little personal acquaintance
+with him; but he has the confidence of several members of Congress
+here who seem to know him well. He hopes to be useful, without
+charge to the government, in facilitating the introduction of the
+free-labor system on the Mississippi plantations. He is acquainted
+with, and has access to, many of the planters who wish to adopt the
+system. He will show you two letters of mine on this subject, one
+somewhat General, and the other relating to named persons; they are
+not different in principle. He will also show you some suggestions
+coming from some of the planters themselves. I desire that all I
+promise in these letters, so far as practicable, may be in good faith
+carried out, and that suggestions from the planters may be heard and
+adopted, so far as they may not contravene the principles stated, nor
+justice, nor fairness, to laborers. I do not herein intend to
+overrule your own mature judgment on any point.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL STEELE.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 3, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Ark.:
+
+Yours including address to people of Arkansas is received. I approve
+the address and thank you for it. Yours in relation to William M.
+Randolph also received. Let him take the oath of December 8,
+and go to work for the new constitution, and on your notifying me of
+it, I will immediately issue the special pardon for him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 4,1864.
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Admiral Dahlgren is here, and of course is very anxious about his
+son. Please send me at once all you know or can learn of his fate.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER IN REGARD TO THE EXPORTATION OF TOBACCO BELONGING TO THE FRENCH
+GOVERNMENT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, March 7, 1864.
+
+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 seven thousand hogsheads, and that
+it is the same tobacco respecting the exportation of which
+application Was originally made by the French government.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO UNITED STATES MARSHAL, LOUISVILLE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 7, 1864.
+
+U.S. MARSHAL, Louisville, Ky.:
+
+Until further order suspend sale of property and further proceedings
+in cases of the United States against Dr. John B. English, and S. S.
+English, qt al., sureties for John L. Hill. Also same against same
+sureties for Thomas A. Ireland.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+MAJOR ECKERT:
+Please send the above dispatch.
+JNO. G. NICOLAY, Private Secretary
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 9, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+New York City votes ninety-five hundred majority for allowing
+soldiers to vote, and the rest of the State nearly all on the same
+side. Tell the soldiers.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO SENATE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, March 9, 1864.
+
+TO THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO GENERAL GRANT,
+
+MARCH 9, 1864.
+
+GENERAL GRANT:--The expression of the nation's approbation of what
+you have already done, and its reliance on you for what remains to do
+in the existing great struggle, is now presented with this commission
+constituting you Lieutenant-General of the Army of the United States.
+
+With this high honor, devolves on you an additional responsibility.
+As the country herein trusts you, so, under God, it win sustain you.
+I scarcely need add, that with what I here speak for the country,
+goes my own hearty personal concurrence.
+
+
+
+GENERAL GRANT'S REPLY.
+
+Mr. PRESIDENT:--I accept this commission, with gratitude for the high
+honor conferred.
+
+With the aid of the noble armies that have fought on so many fields
+for our common country, it will be my earnest endeavor not to
+disappoint your expectations.
+
+I feel the full weight of the responsibilities now devolving on me,
+and I know that if they are met, it will be due to those armies; and
+above all, to the favor of that Providence which leads both nations
+and men.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER ASSIGNING U. S. GRANT TO THE COMMAND OF
+THE ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 10, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR MURPHY.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 12, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR MURPHY, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+I am not appointing officers for Arkansas now, and I will try to
+remember your request. Do your best to get out the largest vote
+possible, and of course as much of it as possible on the right side.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL HAHN.
+(Private.)
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 13, 1864
+
+HON. MICHAEL HAHN.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I congratulate you on having fixed your name in history
+as the first free-state governor of Louisiana. Now, you are about to
+have a convention, which among other things will probably define the
+elective franchise. I barely suggest for your private consideration,
+whether some of the colored people may not be let in,--as, for
+instance, the very intelligent, and especially those who have fought
+gallantly in our ranks. They would probably help, in some trying
+time to come, to keep the jewel of liberty within the family of
+freedom. But this is only a suggestion,--not to the public, but to
+you alone.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+CALL FOR TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND MEN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, MARCH 14, 1864.
+
+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 five hundred thousand men called for February 1,
+1864, a call is hereby made and a draft ordered for two hundred
+thousand men for the military service (Army, Navy, and Marine Corps)
+of the United States.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The Government bounties as now paid continue until April I, 1864, at
+which time the additional bounties cease.  On and after that date
+one hundred dollars bounty only will be paid, as provided by the act
+approved July 22, 1861.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+(Private.)
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 15, 1864
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+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?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PASS FOR GENERAL D. E. SICKLES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 15, 1864.
+
+WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
+
+Major-General Sickles is making a tour for me from here by way of
+Cairo, New Orleans, and returning by the gulf, and ocean, and all
+land and naval officers and, employees are directed to furnish
+reasonable transportation and other reasonable facilities to himself
+and personal staff not inconsistent with the public service.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER TO GOVERNOR HAHN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 15, 1864.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY MICHAEL HAHN, Governor of Louisiana
+
+Until further order, you are hereby invested with the powers
+exercised hitherto by the military governor of Louisiana.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REMARKS AT A FAIR IN THE PATENT OFFICE,
+
+WASHINGTON, MARCH 16, 1864.
+
+LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:
+
+I appear to say but a word. This extraordinary war in which we are
+engaged falls heavily upon all classes of people but the most heavily
+upon the soldier. For it has been said, "All that a man hath will he
+give for his life;" and while all contribute of their substance, the
+soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his
+country's cause. The highest merit, then, is due to the soldier.
+
+In this extraordinary war, extraordinary developments have manifested
+themselves, such as have not been seen in former wars; and among
+these manifestations nothing has been more remarkable than these
+fairs for the relief of suffering soldiers and their families. And
+the chief agents of these fairs are the women of America.
+
+I am not accustomed to the use of language of eulogy: I have never
+studied the art of paying compliments to women; but I must say, that
+if all that has been said by orators and poets since the creation of
+the world in praise of women were applied to the women of America, it
+would not do them justice for their conduct during this war. I will
+close by saying, God bless the women of America.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE FROM
+THE WORKINGMEN'S ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK,
+
+MARCH 21, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN OF THE COMMITTEE:
+
+The honorary membership in your association, as generously tendered,
+is gratefully accepted.
+
+You comprehend, as your address shows, that the existing rebellion
+means more and tends to do more than the perpetuation of African
+slavery--that it is, in fact, a war upon the rights of all working
+people. Partly to show that this view has not escaped my attention,
+and partly that I cannot better express myself, I read a passage from
+the message to Congress in December, 1861:
+
+"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 legislature, boldly advocated, with labored
+argument 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.  In my
+present position I could scarcely be justified were I to omit raising
+a warning voice against this approach of returning despotism.
+
+"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 capital on an equal
+footing, if not above labor, in the structure of government. It is
+assumed that labor is available only in connection with capital; that
+nobody labors unless somebody 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 hire laborers, and thus induce
+them to work by their own consent or buy them, and drive them to it
+without their consent. Having proceeded so it is naturally concluded
+that all laborers are either hired 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. 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.
+
+"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 capital and labor,
+producing mutual benefits. The error is in assuming that the whole
+labor of a 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.
+
+"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 a while, 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 touch or take aught which they have not honestly
+earned. Let them beware of surrendering a political power 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."
+
+The views then expressed remain unchanged, nor have I much to add.
+None are so deeply interested to resist the present rebellion as the
+working people. Let them beware of prejudices, working division and
+hostility among themselves. The most notable feature of a
+disturbance in your city last summer was the hanging of some working
+people by other working people.  It should never be so.  The
+strongest bond of human sympathy, outside of the family relation,
+should be one uniting all working people, of all nations, and
+tongues, and kindreds. Nor should this lead to a war upon property,
+or the owners of property. Property is the fruit of labor; property
+is desirable; is a positive good in the world. That some should be
+rich shows that others may become rich, and, hence, is just
+encouragement to industry and enterprise. Let not him who is
+houseless pull down the house of another, but let him labor
+diligently and build one for himself, thus by example assuring that
+his own shall be safe from violence when built.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 22, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Hon. W. R. Morrison says he has requested you by letter to effect a
+special exchange of Lieut. Col. A. F. Rogers, of Eightieth Illinois
+Volunteers, now in Libby Prison, and I shall be glad if you can
+effect it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+CORRESPONDENCE WITH GENERAL C. SCHURZ.
+( Private.)
+
+WASHINGTON, March 13, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SCHURZ.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Yours of February 29 reached me only four days ago; but
+the delay was of little consequence, because I found, on feeling
+around, I could not invite you here without a difficulty which at
+least would be unpleasant, and perhaps would be detrimental to the
+public service. Allow me to suggest that if you wish to remain in
+the military service, it is very dangerous for you to get temporarily
+out of it; because, with a major-general once out, it is next to
+impossible for even the President to get him in again. With my
+appreciation of your ability and correct principle, of course I would
+be very glad to have your service for the country in the approaching
+political canvass; but I fear we cannot properly have it without
+separating you from the military.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION ABOUT AMNESTY,
+MARCH 26, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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 these benefits; and whereas the objects of that
+Proclamation were to suppress the insurrection and to restore the
+authority of the United States; and whereas the amnesty therein
+proposed by the President was offered with reference to these objects
+alone:
+
+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 offences 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.
+
+Persons excluded from the amnesty offered in the said Proclamation
+may apply to the President for clemency, like all other offenders,
+and their application will receive due consideration.
+
+I do further declare and proclaim that the oath presented 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 thereof 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 registry thereof, and will, on
+application, in proper cases, issue certificates of such records in
+the customary form of official certificates.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 28, 1864.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--The Governor of Kentucky is here, and desires to have
+the following points definitely fixed:
+
+First. That the quotas of troops furnished, and to be furnished, by
+Kentucky may be adjusted upon the basis as actually reduced by
+able-bodied men of hers having gone into the rebel service; and that
+she be required to furnish no more than her just quotas upon fair
+adjustment upon such basis.
+
+Second. To whatever extent the enlistment and drafting, one or both,
+of colored troops may be found necessary within the State, it may be
+conducted within the law of Congress; and, so far as practicable,
+free from collateral embarrassments, disorders, and provocations.
+
+I think these requests of the Governor are reasonable; and I shall be
+obliged if you will give him a full hearing, and do the best you can
+to effect these objects.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL G. G. MEADE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 29, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Your letter to Colonel Townsend, inclosing a slip from
+the "Herald," and asking a court of inquiry, has been laid before me
+by the Secretary of War, with the request that I would consider it.
+It is quite natural that you should feel some sensibility on the
+subject; yet I am not impressed, nor do I think the country is
+impressed, with the belief that your honor demands, or the public
+interest demands, such an inquiry. The country knows that at all
+events you have done good service; and I believe it agrees with me
+that it is much better for you to be engaged in trying to do more,
+than to be diverted, as you necessarily would be, by a court of
+inquiry.
+
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 29,1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Captain Kinney, of whom I spoke to you as desiring to go on your
+staff, is now in your camp, in company with Mrs. Senator Dixon. Mrs.
+Grant and I, and some others, agreed last night that I should, by
+this despatch, kindly call your attention to Captain Kinney.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO A. G. HODGES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 4, 1864.
+
+A. G. HODGES, ESQ., Frankfort, Kentucky:
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--You ask me to put in writing the substance of what I
+verbally said the other day, in your presence, to Governor Bramlette
+and Senator Dixon. It was about as follows:
+
+"I am naturally anti-slavery. If slavery is not wrong, nothing is
+wrong. I cannot remember when I did not so think and feel, and yet I
+have never understood that the Presidency conferred upon me an
+unrestricted right to act officially upon this judgment and feeling.
+It was in the oath I took that I would to the best of my ability
+preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.
+I could not take the office without taking the oath.  Nor was it my
+view that I might take an oath to get power, and break the oath in
+using the power. I understood, too, that in ordinary civil
+administration this oath even forbade me to practically indulge my
+primary abstract judgment on the moral question of slavery. I had
+publicly declared this many times, and in many ways. And I aver
+that, to this day, I have done no official act in mere deference to
+my abstract judgment and feeling on slavery. I did understand,
+however, that my oath to preserve the Constitution to the best of my
+ability, imposed upon me the duty of preserving, by every
+indispensable means, that government, that nation, of which that
+Constitution was the organic law. Was it possible to lose the nation
+and yet preserve the Constitution? By General law, life and limb must
+be protected; yet often a limb must be amputated to save a life; but
+a life is never wisely given to save a limb. I felt that measures,
+otherwise unconstitutional, might become lawful, by becoming
+indispensable to the preservation of the Constitution, through the
+preservation of the nation.  Right or wrong, I assumed this ground,
+and now avow it. I could not feel that to the best of my ability I
+had even tried to preserve the Constitution, if, to save slavery, or
+any minor matter, I should permit the wreck of government, country,
+and Constitution, altogether. When, early in the war, General
+Fremont attempted military emancipation, I forbade it, because I did
+not then think it an indispensable necessity. When, a little later,
+General Cameron, then Secretary of War, suggested the arming of the
+blacks, I objected, because I did not yet think it an indispensable
+necessity. When, still later, General Hunter attempted military
+emancipation, I again forbade it, because I did not yet think the
+indispensable necessity had come. When, in March, and May, and July,
+1862, I made earnest and successive appeals to the Border States to
+favor compensated emancipation, I believed the indispensable
+necessity for military emancipation and arming the blacks would come,
+unless averted by that measure. They declined the proposition, and I
+was, in my best judgment, driven to the alternative of either
+surrendering the Union, and with it the Constitution, or of laying
+strong hand upon the colored element.  I chose the latter. In
+choosing it, I hoped for greater gain than loss, but of this I was
+not entirely confident. More than a year of trial now shows no loss
+by it in our foreign relations, none in our home popular sentiment,
+none in our white military force, no loss by it any how, or anywhere.
+On the contrary, it shows a gain of quite one hundred and thirty
+thousand soldiers, seamen, and laborers. These are palpable facts,
+about which, as facts, there can be no caviling. We have the men;
+and we could not have had them without the measure.
+
+"And now let any Union man who complains of the measure test himself
+by writing down in one line that he is for subduing the rebellion by
+force of arms; and in the next, that he is for taking these hundred
+and thirty thousand men from the Union side, and placing them where
+they would be but for the measure he condemns. If he cannot face his
+case so stated, it is only because he cannot face the truth."
+
+I add a word which was not in the verbal conversation. In telling
+this tale I attempt no compliment to my own sagacity. I claim not to
+have controlled events, but confess plainly that events have
+controlled me. Now, at the end of three years' struggle, the
+nation's condition is not what either party, or any man, devised or
+expected. God alone can claim it. Whither it is tending seems
+plain. If God now wills the removal of a great wrong, and wills also
+that we of the North, as well as you of the South, shall pay fairly
+for our complicity in that wrong, impartial history will find therein
+new cause to attest and revere the justice and goodness of God.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO MRS. HORACE MANN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+April 5, 1864.
+
+MRS HORACE MANN:
+
+MADAM:--The petition of persons under eighteen, praying that I would
+free all slave children, and the heading of which petition it appears
+you wrote, was handed me a few days since by Senator Sumner. Please
+tell these little people I am very glad their young hearts are so
+full of just and generous sympathy, and that, while I have not the
+power to grant all they ask, I trust they will remember that God has,
+and that, as it seems, he wills to do it.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, April 12, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+I am pressed to get from Libby, by special exchange, Jacob C.
+Hagenbuek, first lieutenant, Company H, Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania
+Volunteers. Please do it if you can without detriment or
+embarrassment.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, April 17, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Private William Collins of Company B, of the Sixty-ninth New York
+Volunteers, has been convicted of desertion, and execution suspended
+as in numerous other cases. Now Captain O'Neill, commanding the
+regiment, and nearly all its other regimental and company officers,
+petition for his full pardon and restoration to his company. Is
+there any good objection?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LECTURE ON LIBERTY
+
+ADDRESS AT SANITARY FAIR IN BALTIMORE,
+
+APRIL 18, 1864.
+
+LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:--Calling to mind that we are in Baltimore, we
+cannot fail to note that the world moves. Looking upon these many
+people assembled here to serve, as they best may, the soldiers of the
+Union, it occurs at once that three years ago the same soldiers could
+not so much as pass through Baltimore. The change from then till now
+is both great and gratifying. Blessings on the brave men who have
+wrought the change, and the fair women who strive to reward them for
+it!
+
+But Baltimore suggests more than could happen within Baltimore. The
+change within Baltimore is part only of a far wider change. When the
+war began, three years ago, neither party, nor any man, expected it
+would last till now. Each looked for the end, in some way, long ere
+to-day. Neither did any anticipate that domestic slavery would be
+much affected by the war. But here we are; the war has not ended,
+and slavery has been much affected how much needs not now to be
+recounted. So true is it that man proposes and God disposes.
+
+But we can see the past, though we may not claim to have directed it;
+and seeing it, in this case, we feel more hopeful and confident for
+the future.
+
+The world has never had a good definition of the word liberty, and
+the American people, just now, are much in want of one. We all
+declare for liberty; but in using the same word we do not all mean
+the same thing. With some the word liberty may mean for each man to
+do as he pleases with himself, and the product of his labor; while
+with others the same word may mean for some men to do as they please
+with other men, and the product of other men's labor. Here are two,
+not only different, but incompatible things, called by the same name,
+liberty. And it follows that each of the things is, by the
+respective parties, called by two different and incompatible names
+--liberty and tyranny.
+
+The shepherd drives the wolf from the sheep's throat, for which the
+sheep thanks the shepherd as his liberator, while the wolf denounces
+him for the same act, as the destroyer of liberty, especially as the
+sheep was a black one. Plainly, the sheep and the wolf are not
+agreed upon a definition of the word liberty; and precisely the same
+difference prevails to-day among us human creatures, even in the
+North, and all professing to love liberty. Hence we behold
+the process by which thousands are daily passing from under the yoke
+of bondage hailed by some as the advance of liberty, and bewailed by
+others as the destruction of all liberty. Recently, as it seems, the
+people of Maryland have been doing something to define liberty, and
+thanks to them that, in what they have done, the wolf's dictionary
+has been repudiated.
+
+It is not very becoming for one in my position to make speeches at
+length; but there is another subject upon which I feel that I ought
+to say a word. A painful rumor, true, I fear, has reached us, of the
+massacre, by the rebel forces at Fort Pillow, in the west end of
+Tennessee, on the Mississippi River, of some three hundred colored
+soldiers and white officers [I believe it latter turned out to be
+500], who had just been overpowered by their assailants [numbering
+5000]. There seems to be some anxiety in the public mind whether the
+Government is doing its duty to the colored soldier, and to the
+service, at this point. At the beginning of the war, and for some
+time, the use of colored troops was not contemplated; and how the
+change of purpose was wrought I will not now take time to explain.
+Upon a clear conviction of duty I resolved to turn that element of
+strength to account; and I am responsible for it to the American
+people, to the Christian world, to history, and in my final account
+to God. Having determined to use the negro as a soldier, there is no
+way but to give him all the protection given to any other soldier.
+The difficulty is not in stating the principle, but in practically
+applying it. It is a mistake to suppose the Government is
+indifferent to this matter, or is not doing the best it can in regard
+to it. We do not to-day know that a colored soldier, or white
+officer commanding colored soldiers, has been massacred by the rebels
+when made a prisoner. We fear it, we believe it, I may say,--but we
+do not know it. To take the life of one of their prisoners on the
+assumption that they murder ours, when it is short of certainty that
+they do murder ours, might be too serious, too cruel, a mistake. We
+are having the Fort Pillow affair thoroughly investigated; and such
+investigation will probably show conclusively how the truth is. If
+after all that has been said it shall turn out that there has been no
+massacre at Fort Pillow, it will be almost safe to say there has been
+none, and will be none, elsewhere. If there has been the massacre of
+three hundred there, or even the tenth part of three hundred, it will
+be conclusively proved; and being so proved, the retribution shall as
+surely come. It will be matter of grave consideration in what exact
+course to apply the retribution; but in the supposed case it must
+come.
+
+[There was a massacre of a black company and their officers at Fort
+Pillow--they were prisoners who later on, the day of their capture,
+were ordered executed.  The black soldiers were tied alive to
+individual planks--then man and plank were cobbled up like cord wood
+and burned.  The white officers were shot.  D.W.]
+
+
+
+
+TO CALVIN TRUESDALE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 20, 1864.
+
+CALVIN TRUESDALE, ESQ., Postmaster, Rock Island, Ill.:
+
+Thomas J. Pickett, late agent of the Quartermaster 's Department for
+the island of Rock Island, has been removed or suspended from that
+position on a charge of having sold timber and stone from the island
+for his private benefit. Mr. Pickett is an old acquaintance and
+friend of mine, and I will thank you, if you will, to set a day or
+days and place on and at which to take testimony on the point.
+Notify Mr. Pickett and one J. B. Danforth (who, as I understand,
+makes the charge) to be present with their witnesses. Take the
+testimony in writing offered by both sides, and report it in full to
+me. Please do this for me.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER COMMANDING AT FORT WARREN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 20, 1864.
+
+OFFICER IN MILITARY COMMAND,
+Fort Warren, Boston Harbor, Mass.:
+
+If there is a man by the name of Charles Carpenter, under sentence of
+death for desertion, at Fort Warren, suspend execution until further
+order and send the record of his trial. If sentenced for any other
+offence, telegraph what it is and when he is to be executed. Answer
+at all events.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER COMMANDING AT FORT WARREN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 21,1864.
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND AT FORT WARREN,
+Boston Harbor, Mass.:
+
+The order I sent yesterday in regard to Charles Carpenter is hereby
+withdrawn and you are to act as if it never existed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL DIX.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., April 21, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL Dix, New York:
+
+Yesterday I was induced to telegraph the officer in military command
+at Fort Warren, Boston Harbor, Massachusetts, suspending the
+execution of Charles Carpenter, to be executed tomorrow for
+desertion. Just now, on reaching your order in the case, I
+telegraphed the same officer withdrawing the suspension, and leave
+the case entirely with you. The man's friends are pressing me, but I
+refer them to you, intending to take no further action myself.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 23, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Senator Ten Eyck is very anxious to have a special exchange of Capt.
+Frank J. McLean, of Ninth Tennessee Cavalry now, or lately, at
+Johnson's Island, for Capt. T. Ten Eyck, Eighteenth U. S. Infantry,
+and now at Richmond. I would like to have it done. Can it be?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON OFFER OF TROOPS, APRIL 23, 1864.
+
+TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+1. The Governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin
+offer to the President infantry troops for the approaching campaign
+as follows: Ohio, thirty thousand; Indiana, twenty thousand;
+Illinois, twenty thousand; Iowa, ten thousand; Wisconsin, five
+thousand.
+
+2. The term of service to be one hundred days, reckoned from the date
+of muster into the service of the United States, unless sooner
+discharged.
+
+3. The troops to be mustered into the service of the United States by
+regiments, when the regiments are filled 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.
+
+4. 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.
+
+5. No bounty to be paid the troops, nor the service charged or
+credited on any draft.
+
+6. 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.
+
+JOHN BROUGH, Governor of Ohio.
+O. P. MORTON, Governor of Indiana.
+RICHARD PATES, Governor of Illinois.
+WILLIAM M. STONE, Governor of Iowa.
+JAMES T. LEWIS, Governor of Wisconsin
+
+(Indorsement.)
+
+April 23, 1864.
+
+The foregoing proposition of the governors is accepted, and the
+Secretary of War is directed to carry it into execution.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 23, 1864.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+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.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO JOHN WILLIAMS.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON CITY, April 25, 1864.
+
+JOHN WILLIAMS, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+Yours of the 15th is just received. Thanks for your kind
+remembrance. I would accept your offer at once, were it not that I
+fear there might be some impropriety in it, though I do not see that
+there would. I will think of it a while.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON CITY, April 25, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+A Mr. Corby brought you a note from me at the foot of a petition I
+believe, in the case of Dawson, to be executed to-day. The record
+has been examined here, and it shows too strong a case for a pardon
+or commutation, unless there is something in the poor man's favor
+outside of the record, which you on the ground may know, but I do
+not. My note to you only means that if you know of any such
+thing rendering a suspension of the execution proper, on your own
+judgment, you are at liberty to suspend it. Otherwise I do not
+interfere.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL THOMAS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., April 26, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Chattanooga, Term.:
+
+Suspend execution of death sentence of young Perry, of Wisconsin,
+condemned for sleeping on his post, till further orders, and forward
+record for examination.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR MURPHY.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., April 27, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR MURPHY, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+I am much gratified to learn that you got out so large a vote, so
+nearly all the right way, at the late election; and not less so that
+your State government including the legislature, is organized and in
+good working order. Whatever I can I will do to protect you;
+meanwhile you must do your utmost to protect yourselves. Present my
+greeting to all.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS, APRIL 28, 1864.
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
+
+APRIL 28, 1864.
+
+TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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:
+
+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 the 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
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 30, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Not expecting to see you before the spring campaign opens, I wish to
+express in this way my entire satisfaction with what you have done up
+to this time, so far as I understand it.
+
+The particulars of your plans I neither know nor seek to know. You
+are vigilant and self-reliant; and, pleased with this, I wish not to
+obtrude any restraints or constraints upon you. While I am very
+anxious that any great disaster or capture of our men in great number
+shall be avoided, I know that these points are less likely to escape
+your attention than they would be mine. If there be anything wanting
+which is within my power to give, do not fail to let me know it.
+
+And now, with a brave army and a just cause, may God sustain you.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
+
+MAY 2, 1864.
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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:
+
+[Correspondence and orders relating to the resignation and
+reinstatement of Major-General Frank P. Blair, Jr., of Missouri.]
+
+The foregoing constitutes all sought by the resolution so far as is
+remembered or has been found upon diligent search.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., May 4, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Chattanooga, Tenn.:
+
+I have an imploring appeal in behalf of the citizens who say your
+Order No.8 will compel them to go north of Nashville. This is in no
+sense an order, nor is it even a request that you will do anything
+which in the least shall be a drawback upon your military operations,
+but anything you can do consistently with those operations for those
+suffering people I shall be glad of.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 5, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Commanding, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+The President directs me to inquire whether a day has yet been fixed
+for the execution of citizen Robert Louden, and if so what day?
+
+JOHN HAY,
+Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.
+
+
+
+
+TO MRS. S. B. McCONKEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 9, 1864.
+
+MRS. SARAH B. McCONKEY, West Chester, Pa.:
+
+MADAM:--Our mutual friend, Judge Lewis, tells me you do me the honor
+to inquire for my personal welfare. I have been very anxious for
+some days in regard to our armies in the field, but am considerably
+cheered, just now, by favorable news from them.
+
+I am sure you will join me in the hope for their further success;
+while yourself, and other good mothers, wives, sisters, and
+daughters, do all you and they can, to relieve and comfort the
+gallant soldiers who compose them.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RECOMMENDATION OF THANKSGIVING.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 9, 1864
+
+TO THE FRIENDS OF UNION AND LIBERTY:
+
+Enough is known of army operations, within the last five days, to
+claim our special gratitude to God. While what remains undone
+demands our most sincere prayers to and reliance upon Him (without
+whom all effort is 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+
+MAY 9, 1864.
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS:--I am very much obliged to you for the compliment of
+this call, though I apprehend it is owing more to the good news
+received to-day from the Army, than to a desire to see me. I am
+indeed very grateful to the brave men who have been struggling with
+the enemy in the field, to their noble commanders who have directed
+them, and especially to our Maker. Our commanders are following up
+their victories resolutely and successfully. I think, without
+knowing the particulars of the plans of General Grant, that what has
+been accomplished is of more importance than at first appears. I
+believe, I know (and am especially grateful to know) that General
+Grant has not been jostled in his purposes, that he has made all his
+points, and to-day he is on his line as he purposed before he moved
+his armies. I will volunteer to say that I am very glad at what has
+happened, but there is a great deal still to be done. While we are
+grateful to all the brave men and officers for the events of the past
+few days, we should, above all, be very grateful to Almighty God, who
+gives us victory.
+
+There is enough yet before us requiring all loyal men and patriots to
+perform their share of the labor and follow the example of the modest
+General at the head of our armies, and sink all personal
+consideration for the sake of the country. I commend you to keep
+yourselves in the same tranquil mood that is characteristic of that
+brave and loyal man. I have said more than I expected when I came
+before you. Repeating my thanks for this call, I bid you good-bye.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL LEW WALLACE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., May 10, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL WALLACE, Baltimore:
+
+Please tell me what is the trouble with Dr. Hawks.  Also please ask
+Bishop Whittington to give me his view of the case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS,
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 11, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, St. Louis, Missouri:
+
+Complaints are coming to me of disturbances in Canoll, Platte, and
+Buchanan counties.  Please ascertain the truth, correct what is
+found wrong, and telegraph me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO P. B. LOOMIS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 12, 1864
+
+F. B. LOOMIS, ESQ.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
+communication of the 28th April, in which you offer to replace the
+present garrison at Port Trumbull with volunteers, which you propose
+to raise at your own expense. While it seems inexpedient at this
+time to accept this proposition on account of the special duties now
+devolving upon the garrison mentioned, I cannot pass unnoticed such a
+meritorious instance of individual patriotism. Permit me, for the
+Government, to express my cordial thanks to you for this generous and
+public-spirited offer, which is worthy of note among the many called
+forth in these times of national trial.
+
+I am very truly, your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A METHODIST DELEGATION, MAY 14, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN:-In response to your address, allow me to attest the
+accuracy of its historical statements, indorse the sentiments it
+expresses, and thank you in the nation's name for the sure promise it
+gives. Nobly sustained, as the Government has been, by all the
+churches, I would utter nothing which might in the least appear
+invidious against any. Yet without this, it may fairly be said, that
+the Methodist Episcopal Church, not less devoted than the best, is by
+its greatest numbers the most important of all. It is no fault in
+others that the Methodist Church sends more soldiers to the field,
+more nurses to the hospitals, and more prayers to Heaven than--any
+other. God bless the Methodist Church Bless all the churches; and
+blessed be God, who in this our great trial giveth us the churches.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR YATES.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 18, 1864.
+
+His EXCELLENCY RICHARD YATES, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+If any such proclamation has appeared, it is a forgery.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ARREST AND IMPRISONMENT OF IRRESPONSIBLE NEWSPAPER
+REPORTERS AND EDITORS
+
+ORDER TO GENERAL J. A. DIX.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 18, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL JOHN A. DIX,
+Commanding at New York:
+
+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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+[On the morning of May 18, 3864, a forged proclamation was published
+in the World, and Journal of Commerce, of New York. The proclamation
+named a day for fasting and prayer, called for 400,000 fresh troops,
+and purposed to raise by an "immediate and peremptory draft,"
+whatever quotas were not furnished on the day specified.  Ed.]
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL B. P. BUTLER.
+(Cipher.)
+WASHINGTON, D. C., May 18, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Bermuda Hundred, Va.:
+
+Until receiving your dispatch of yesterday, the idea of commissions
+in the volunteers expiring at the end of three years had not occurred
+to me. I think no trouble will come of it; and, at all events,
+I shall take care of it so far as in me lies. As to the
+major-generalships in the regular army, I think I shall not dispose of
+another, at least until the combined operations now in progress, under
+direction of General Grant, and within which yourself and command are
+included, shall be terminated.
+
+Meanwhile, on behalf of yourself, officers, and men, please accept my
+hearty thanks for what you and they have so far done.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE EXEMPTION OF
+AMERICAN CONSULS FROM MILITARY SERVICE,
+
+MAY 19, 1864.
+
+It is officially announced by the State Department that citizens of
+the United States holding commissions and recognized as Consuls of
+foreign powers, are not by law exempt from military service if
+drafted:
+
+Therefore the mere enrolment of a citizen holding a foreign consulate
+will not be held to vacate his commission, but if he shall be drafted
+his exequatur will be revoked unless he shall have previously
+resigned in order that another Consul may be received.
+
+An exequatur bearing date the 3d day of May, 1858, having been issued
+to Charles Hunt, a citizen of the United States, recognizing him as a
+Consul of Belgium for St. Louis, Missouri, 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.
+
+These are therefore to declare that I no longer recognize the said
+Hunt as Consul of Belgium, for St. Louis, Missouri, 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.
+
+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................
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR MORTON AND OTHERS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, May 21, 1864
+
+GOVERNOR O. P. MORTON:
+
+The getting forward of hundred-day troops to sustain General
+Sherman's lengthening lines promises much good. Please put your best
+efforts into the work.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+Same to Governor Yates, Springfield, Illinois; Governor Stone,
+Davenport, Iowa; Governor Lewis, Madison, Wisconsin.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO CHRISTIANA A. SACK.
+WAR DEPARTMENT WASHINGTON, D. C., May 21, 1864
+
+CHRISTIANA A. SACK, Baltimore, Md.:
+
+I cannot postpone the execution of a convicted spy on a mere
+telegraphic despatch signed with a name I never heard before.
+General Wallace may give you a pass to see him if he chooses.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BROUGH.
+WASHINGTON CITY, May 24, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BROUGH, Columbus, Ohio:
+
+Yours to Secretary of War [received] asking for something cheering.
+We have nothing bad from anywhere. I have just seen a despatch of
+Grant, of 11 P.M., May 23, on the North Anna and partly across it,
+which ends as follows: "Everything looks exceedingly favorable for
+us." We have nothing later from him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 25,1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Mr. J. C. Swift wishes a pass from me to follow your army to pick up
+rags and cast-off clothing. I will give it to him if you say so,
+otherwise not.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+["No job to big or too small" for this president--not even a request
+from a Rag Picker. D.W.]
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM CONCERNING THE TRANSPORTATION OF
+THE NEW YORK NAVAL BRIGADE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 26, 1864.
+
+WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
+
+I am again pressed with the claim of Mr. Marshall O. Roberts, for
+transportation of what was called the Naval Brigade from New York to
+Fortress Monroe. This force was a special organization got up by one
+Bartlett, in pretended pursuance of written authority from me, but in
+fact, pursuing the authority in scarcely anything whatever. The
+credit given him by Mr. Roberts, was given in the teeth of the
+express declaration that the Government would not be responsible for
+the class of expenses to which it belonged. After all some part of
+the transportation became useful to the Government, and equitably
+should be paid for; but I have neither time nor means to ascertain
+this equitable amount, or any appropriation to pay it with if
+ascertained. If the Quartermaster at New York can ascertain what
+would compensate for so much of the transportation as did result
+usefully to the Government, it might be a step towards reaching
+justice. I write this from memory, but I believe it is substantially
+correct.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO P. A. CONKLING AND OTHERS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, June 3, 1864.
+
+HON. F. A. CONKLING AND OTHERS.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--Your letter, inviting me to be present at a mass meeting
+of loyal citizens, to be held at New York on the 4th instant, for the
+purpose of expressing gratitude to Lieutenant-General Grant for his
+signal services, was received yesterday. It is impossible for me to
+attend. I approve, nevertheless, of whatever may tend to strengthen
+and sustain General Grant and the noble armies now under his
+direction. My previous high estimate of General Grant has been
+maintained and heightened by what has occurred in the remarkable
+campaign he is now conducting, while the magnitude and difficulty of
+the task before him does not prove less than I expected. He and his
+brave soldiers are now in the midst of their great trial, and I trust
+that at your meeting you will so shape your good words that they may
+turn to men and guns, moving to his and their support.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON A LETTER TOUCHING THE
+REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION.
+
+JUNE 5, 1864.
+
+(Indorsement.)
+
+Swett is unquestionably all right. Mr. Holt is a good man, but I had
+not heard or thought of him for Vice-President. Wish not to
+interfere about Vice-President. Cannot interfere about platform.
+Convention must judge for itself.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 6, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Private James McCarthy, of the One-hundred and fortieth New York
+Volunteers, is here under sentence to the Dry Tortugas for an attempt
+to desert. His friends appeal to me and if his colonel and you
+consent, I will send him to his regiment. Please answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS.
+WASHINGTON, June 8, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, St. Louis, Missouri:
+
+Yours of to-day received. I am unable to conceive how a message can
+be less safe by the express than by a staff-officer. If you send a
+verbal message, the messenger is one additional person let into the
+secret.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO THE COMMITTEE NOTIFYING PRESIDENT LINCOLN OF HIS
+RENOMINATION,
+
+JUNE 9, 1864.
+
+Mr. CHAIRMAN AND GENTLEMEN OF THE COMMITTEE:
+
+I will neither conceal my gratification nor restrain the expression
+of my gratitude that the Union people, through their convention, in
+their continued effort to save and advance the nation, have deemed me
+not unworthy to remain in my present position. I know no reason to
+doubt that I shall accept the nomination tendered; and yet perhaps I
+should not declare definitely before reading and considering what is
+called the platform. I will say now, however, I approve the
+declaration in favor of so amending the Constitution as to prohibit
+slavery throughout the nation. When the people in revolt, with a
+hundred days of explicit notice that they could within those days
+resume their allegiance without the overthrow of their institution,
+and that they could not so resume it afterward, elected to stand out,
+such amendment of the Constitution as now proposed became a fitting
+and necessary conclusion to the final success of the Union cause.
+Such alone can meet and cover all cavils. Now the unconditional
+Union men, North and South, perceive its importance and embrace it.
+In the joint names of Liberty and Union, let us labor to give it
+legal form and practical effect.
+
+
+
+
+PLATFORM OF THE UNION NATIONAL CONVENTION
+HELD IN BALTIMORE, MD., JUNE 7 AND 8, 1864.
+
+1. Resolved, That it is the highest duty of every American citizen
+to maintain against all their enemies the integrity of the Union and
+the paramount authority of the Constitution and laws of the United
+States; and that, laying aside all differences of political opinion,
+we pledge ourselves, as Union men, animated by a common sentiment and
+aiming at a common object, to do everything in our power to aid the
+Government in quelling by force of arms the rebellion now raging
+against its authority, and in bringing to the punishment due to their
+crimes the rebels and traitors arrayed against it.
+
+2. Resolved, That we approve the determination of the Government of
+the United States not to compromise with rebels, or to offer them any
+terms of peace, except such as may be based upon an unconditional
+surrender of their hostility and a return to their just allegiance to
+the Constitution and laws of the United States, and that we call upon
+the Government to maintain this position, and to prosecute the war
+with the utmost possible vigor to the complete suppression of the
+rebellion, in full reliance upon the self-sacrificing patriotism, the
+heroic valor, and the undying devotion of the American people to
+their Country and its free institutions.
+
+3. Resolved, That as slavery was the cause, and now constitutes the
+strength, of this rebellion, and as it must be, always and
+everywhere, hostile to the principles of republican government,
+justice and the national safety demand its utter and complete
+extirpation from the soil of the republic; and that while we uphold
+and maintain the acts and proclamations by which the Government, in
+its own defense, has aimed a death-blow at this gigantic evil, we are
+in favor, furthermore, of such an amendment to the Constitution, to
+be made by the people in conformity with its provisions, as shall
+terminate and forever prohibit the existence of slavery within the
+limits or the jurisdiction of the United States.
+
+4. Resolved, That the thanks of the American people are due to the
+soldiers and sailors of the Army and Navy, who have periled their
+lives in defense of their country and in vindication of the honor of
+its flag; that the nation owes to them some permanent recognition of
+their patriotism and their valor, and ample and permanent provision
+for those of their survivors who have received disabling and
+honorable wounds in the service of the country; and that the memories
+of those who have fallen in its defense shall be held in grateful and
+everlasting remembrance.
+
+5. Resolved, That we approve and applaud the practical wisdom, the
+unselfish patriotism, and the unswerving fidelity to the Constitution
+and the principles of American liberty, with which Abraham Lincoln
+has discharged under circumstances of unparalleled difficulty the
+great duties and responsibilities of the Presidential office; that we
+approve and indorse as demanded by the emergency and essential to the
+preservation of the nation, and as within the provisions of the
+Constitution, the measures and acts which he has adopted to defend
+the nation against its open and secret foes; that we approve,
+especially, the Proclamation of Emancipation, and the employment as
+Union soldiers of men heretofore held in slavery; and that we have
+full confidence in his determination to carry these and all other
+constitutional measures essential to the salvation of the country
+into full and complete effect.
+
+6. Resolved, That we deem it essential to the General welfare that
+harmony should prevail in the national councils, and we regard as
+worthy of public confidence and official trust those only who
+cordially indorse the principles proclaimed in these resolutions, and
+which should characterize the administration of the Government.
+
+7. Resolved, That the Government owes to all men employed in its
+armies, without regard to distinction of color, the full protection
+of the laws of war, and that any violation of these laws, or of the
+usages of civilized nations in time of war, by the rebels now in
+arms, should be made the subject of prompt and full redress.
+
+8. Resolved, That foreign immigration, which in the past has added
+so much to the wealth, development of resources, and increase of
+power to this nation, the asylum of the oppressed of all nations,
+should be fostered and encouraged by a liberal and just policy.
+
+9. Resolved, That we are in favor of the speedy construction of the
+railroad to the Pacific coast.
+
+10. Resolved, That the national faith, pledged for the redemption of
+the public debt, must be kept inviolate, and that for this purpose we
+recommend economy and rigid responsibility in the public
+expenditures, and a vigorous and just system of taxation: and that it
+is the duty of every loyal State to sustain the credit and promote
+the use of the national currency.
+
+11. Resolved, That we approve the position taken by the Government
+that the people of the United States can never regard with
+indifference the attempt of any European power to overthrow by force
+or to supplant by fraud the institutions of any republican government
+on the Western Continent, and that they will view with extreme
+jealousy, as menacing to the peace and independence of their own
+country, the efforts of any such power to obtain new footholds for
+monarchical governments, sustained by foreign military force, in near
+proximity to the United States.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A DELEGATION FROM THE NATIONAL UNION LEAGUE,
+
+JUNE 9, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN--I can only say in response to the remarks of your
+chairman, that I am very grateful for the renewed confidence which
+has been accorded to me, both by the convention and by the National
+League. I am not insensible at all to the personal compliment there
+is in this, yet I do not allow myself to believe that any but a small
+portion of it is to be appropriated as a personal compliment to me.
+The convention and the nation, I am assured, are alike animated by a
+higher view of the interests of the country, for the present and the
+great future, and the part I am entitled to appropriate as a
+compliment is only that part which I may lay hold of as being the
+opinion of the convention and of the League, that I am not entirely
+unworthy to be intrusted with the place I have occupied for the last
+three years. I have not permitted myself, gentlemen, to conclude
+that I am the best man in the country; but I am reminded in this
+connection of a story of an old Dutch farmer, who remarked to a
+companion once that "it was not best to swap horses when crossing a
+stream."
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A DELEGATION FROM OHIO,
+
+JUNE 9, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--I am very much obliged to you for this compliment. I
+have just been saying, and will repeat it, that the hardest of all
+speeches I have to answer is a serenade. I never know what to say on
+these occasions. I suppose that you have done me this kindness in
+connection with the action of the Baltimore convention, which has
+recently taken place, and with which, of course, I am very well
+satisfied. What we want still more than Baltimore conventions, or
+Presidential elections, is success under General Grant. I propose
+that you constantly bear in mind that the support you owe to the
+brave officers and soldiers in the field is of the very first
+importance, and we should therefore bend all our energies to that
+point. Now without detaining you any longer, I propose that you help
+me to close up what I am now saying with three rousing cheers for
+General Grant and the officers and soldiers under his command.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO THE ENVOY FROM
+THE HAWAIIAN
+ISLANDS,
+
+JUNE 11, 1864.
+
+SIR:--In every light in which the State of the Hawaiian Islands can
+be contemplated, it is an object of profound interest for the United
+States.  Virtually it was once a colony. It is now a near and
+intimate neighbor. It is a haven of shelter and refreshment for our
+merchants, fishermen, seamen, and other citizens, when on their
+lawful occasions they are navigating the eastern seas and oceans.
+Its people are free, and its laws, language, and religion are largely
+the fruit of our own teaching and example. The distinguished part
+which you, Mr. Minister, have acted in the history of that
+interesting country, is well known here. It gives me pleasure to
+assure you of my sincere desire to do what I can to render now your
+sojourn in the United States agreeable to yourself, satisfactory to
+your sovereign, and beneficial to the Hawaiian people.
+
+
+
+
+REMARKS TO AN OHIO REGIMENT,
+
+JUNE 11, 1864.
+
+Soldiers! I understand you have just come from Ohio; come to help us
+in this the nation's day of trial, and also of its hopes. I thank
+you for your promptness in responding to the call for troops. Your
+services were never needed more than now. I know not where you are
+going. You may stay here and take the places of those who will be
+sent to the front, or you may go there yourselves. Wherever you go I
+know you will do your best. Again I thank you. Good-by.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL L. THOMAS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 13, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Louisville, Kentucky:
+
+Complaint is made to me that in the vicinity of Henderson, our
+militia is seizing negroes and carrying them off without their own
+consent, and according to no rules whatever, except those of absolute
+violence. I wish you would look into this and inform me, and see
+that the making soldiers of negroes is done according to the rules
+you are acting upon, so that unnecessary provocation and irritation
+be avoided.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO THOMAS WEBSTER.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., June 13, 1864.
+
+THOMAS WEBSTER, Philadelphia:
+
+Will try to leave here Wednesday afternoon, say at 4 P.M., remain
+till Thursday afternoon and then return. This subject to events.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, June 15, 1864. 7 A.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT,
+Headquarters Army of the Potomac:
+
+I have just received your dispatch of 1 P.M. yesterday. I begin to
+see it: you will succeed. God bless you all.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS AT A SANITARY FAIR IN PHILADELPHIA,
+
+JUNE 16, 1864.
+
+I suppose that this toast is intended to open the way for me to say
+something. War at the best is terrible, and this of ours in its
+magnitude and duration is one of the most terrible the world has ever
+known. It has deranged business totally in many places, and perhaps
+in all. It has destroyed property, destroyed life, and ruined homes.
+It has produced a national debt and a degree of taxation
+unprecedented in the history of this country. It has caused mourning
+among us until the heavens may almost be said to be hung in black.
+And yet it continues. It has had accompaniments not before known in
+the history of the world. I mean the Sanitary and Christian
+Commissions, with their labors for the relief of the soldiers, and
+the Volunteer Refreshment Saloons, understood better by those who
+hear me than by myself, and these fairs, first begun at Chicago and
+next held in Boston, Cincinnati, and other cities. The motive and
+object that lie at the bottom of them are worthy of the most that we
+can do for the soldier who goes to fight the battles of his country.
+From the fair and tender hand of women is much, very much, done for
+the soldier, continually reminding him of the care and thought for
+him at home. The knowledge that he is not forgotten is grateful to
+his heart. Another view of these institutions is worthy of thought.
+They are voluntary contributions, giving proof that the national
+resources are not at all exhausted, and that the national patriotism
+will sustain us through all. It is a pertinent question, When is
+this war to end? I do not wish to name the day when it will end, lest
+the end should not come at the given time. We accepted this war, and
+did not begin it. We accepted it for an object, and when that object
+is accomplished the war will end, and I hope to God that it will
+never end until that object is accomplished. We are going through
+with our task, so far as I am concerned, if it takes us three years
+longer. I have not been in the habit of making predictions, but I am
+almost tempted now to hazard one. I will. It is, that Grant is this
+evening in a position, with Meade and Hancock, of Pennsylvania,
+whence he can never be dislodged by the enemy until Richmond is
+taken. If I shall discover that General Grant may be greatly
+facilitated in the capture of Richmond by rapidly pouring to him a
+large number of armed men at the briefest notice, will you go? Will
+you march on with him? [Cries of "Yes, yes."] Then I shall call upon
+you when it is necessary.
+
+
+
+
+TO ATTORNEY-GENERAL BATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, Jun. 24, 1864
+
+HONORABLE ATTORNEY-GENERAL.
+
+SIR:--By authority of the Constitution, and moved thereto by the
+fourth section of the act of Congress, entitled "An act making
+appropriations for the support of the army for the year ending the
+thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-five, and for other
+purposes, approved June is, 1864," I require your opinion in writing
+as to what pay, bounty, and clothing are allowed by law to persons of
+color who were free on the nineteenth day of April, 1861, and who
+have been enlisted and mustered into the military service of the
+United States between the month of December, 1862, and the sixteenth
+of June, 1864.
+
+Please answer as you would do, on my requirement, if the act of June
+15, 1864, had not been passed, and I will so use your opinion as to
+satisfy that act.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MRS. LINCOLN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 24, 1864.
+
+MRS. A. LINCOLN, Boston, Massachusetts:
+
+All well and very warm. Tad and I have been to General Grant's army.
+Returned yesterday safe and sound.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS.
+WASHINGTON, June 24, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, St. Louis, Missouri:
+
+Complaint is made to me that General Brown does not do his best to
+suppress bushwhackers. Please ascertain and report to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LETTER ACCEPTING THE NOMINATION FOR PRESIDENT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, June 27, 1864.
+
+HON. WILLIAM DENNISON AND OTHERS,
+a Committee of the Union National Convention.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--Your letter of the 14th inst.., formally notifying me
+that I have been nominated by the convention you represent for the
+Presidency of the United States for four years from the 4th of March
+next, has been received. The nomination is gratefully accepted, as
+the resolutions of the convention, called the platform, are heartily
+approved.
+
+While the resolution in regard to the supplanting of republican
+government upon the Western Continent is fully concurred in, there
+might be misunderstanding were I not to say that the position of the
+Government in relation to the action of France in Mexico, as assumed
+through the State Department and indorsed by the convention among the
+measures and acts of the Executive, will be faithfully maintained so
+long as the state of facts shall leave that position pertinent and
+applicable.
+
+I am especially gratified that the soldier and seaman were not
+forgotten by the convention, as they forever must and will be
+remembered by the grateful country for whose salvation they devote
+their lives.
+
+Thanking you for the kind and complimentary terms in which you have
+communicated the nomination and other proceedings of the convention,
+I subscribe myself,
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL P. STEELE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, June 29, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE:
+
+I understand that Congress declines to admit to seats the persons
+sent as Senators and Representatives from Arkansas. These persons
+apprehend that, in consequence, you may not support the new State
+government there as you otherwise would.  My wish is that you give
+that government and the people there the same support and protection
+that you would if the members had been admitted, because in no event,
+nor in any view of the case, can this do any harm, while it will be
+the best you can do toward suppressing the rebellion.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 29, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point:
+
+Dr. Worster wishes to visit you with a view of getting your
+permission to introduce into the army "Harmon's Sandal Sock." Shall I
+give him a pass for that object?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO DAVID TOD.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., June 30, 1864.
+
+HON. DAVID TOD, Youngstown, Ohio:
+I have nominated you to be Secretary of the Treasury, in place of
+Governor Chase, who has resigned. Please come without a moment's
+delay.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. L. SCRIPPS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, July 4, 1864.
+
+To JOHN L. SCRIPPS, ESQ.
+
+DEAR SIR:--Complaint is made to me that you are using your official
+power to defeat Mr. Arnold's nomination to Congress. I am well
+satisfied with Mr. Arnold as a member of Congress, and I do not know
+that the man who might supplant him would be as satisfactory; but the
+correct principle, I think, is that all our friends should have
+absolute freedom of choice among our friends. My wish, therefore, is
+that you will do just as you think fit with your own suffrage in the
+case, and not constrain any of your subordinates to [do] other than
+[as] he thinks fit with his. This is precisely the rule I inculcated
+and adhered to on my part, when a certain other nomination, now
+recently made, was being canvassed for.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. W. GARRETT.
+WASHINGTON, July 5, 1864.
+
+J. W. GARRETT, President [B. & 0. R. R.], Camden Station:
+
+You say telegraphic communication is re-established with Sandy Hook.
+Well, what does Sandy Hook say about operations of enemy and of Sigel
+during to-day?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FROM SECRETARY STANTON TO GOVERNOR SEYMOUR.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, July 5, 1864.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY HORATIO SEYMOUR,
+Governor of New York, Albany:
+
+The President directs me to inform you that a rebel force, variously
+estimated at from fifteen to twenty thousand men, have invaded the
+State of Maryland, and have taken Martinsburg and Harper's Ferry, and
+are threatening other points; that the public safety requires him to
+call upon the State executives for a militia force to repel this
+invasion. He therefore directs me to call on you for a militia force
+of twelve thousand men from your State to serve not more than one
+hundred days, and to request that you will with the utmost despatch
+forward the troops to Washington by rail or steamboat as may be most
+expeditious.
+
+Please favor me with an answer at your earliest convenience.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION
+SUSPENDING THE WRIT OF HABEAS CORPUS,
+
+JULY 5, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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 power vested in
+the marshals by law; and
+
+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 insurrections and rebellion; and
+
+Whereas, the Congress of the United States, by an act approved on the
+third 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 habeas corpus in any case throughout the United
+States, or any part thereof; and
+
+Whereas, the said insurrection and rebellion still continue,
+endangering the existence of the Constitution and Government of the
+United States; and
+
+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
+
+Whereas, on the fifteenth day of September last, the President of the
+United States duly issued his proclamation, wherein he declared that
+the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus should be suspended
+throughout the United States, in Cases whereby the authority of the
+President of the United States, the 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 and regulations prescribed for the military and
+naval service by authority of the President of the United States, or
+for resisting a draft, or for any other offence against the military
+or naval service; and
+
+Whereas, many citizens of the State of Kentucky have joined the
+forces of the insurgents, who 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 the State; and
+
+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 the 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.
+
+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 habeas
+corpus 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 declared therein. I do therefore hereby require of the
+military officers of the said State that the privilege of the habeas
+corpus 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 as military officers,
+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. The martial laws 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.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the City of Washington this 5th day of July, in the year of
+our Lord 1864, and of the independence of the United States the
+eighty-eighth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION FOR A DAY OF PRAYER, JULY 7, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+Whereas, the Senate and House of Representatives at their last
+session adopted a concurrent resolution, which was approved on the
+second day of July instant, and which `was in the words following,
+namely:
+
+That the President of the United States be requested to appoint a day
+of 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 conscience 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.
+
+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
+resolutions, 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.
+
+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 other loyal and
+law-abiding people of the United States, to assemble in their
+preferred places of public worship on that day, and there to render
+to the Almighty and merciful Ruler of the Universe, such homage 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.
+
+In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed. Done at the city of Washington
+this seventh day of July, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight
+hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United States
+the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING A BILL "TO GUARANTEE TO CERTAIN STATES, WHOSE
+GOVERNMENTS HAVE BEEN USURPED OR OVERTHROWN, A REPUBLICAN FORM OF
+GOVERNMENT," AND CONCERNING RECONSTRUCTION,
+
+JULY 8, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+Whereas, the said bill was presented to the President of the United
+States for his approval less than one hour before the sine die
+adjournment of said session, and was not signed by him; and
+
+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:
+
+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 States and the people thereof shall have sufficiently
+returned to their obedience to the Constitution and the laws of the
+United States, in which cases militia-governors will be appointed
+with directions to proceed according to the bill.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed..............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TO HORACE GREELEY.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+July 9, 1864
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY.
+
+DEAR SIR:--Your letter of the 7th, with inclosures, received.
+
+If you can find any person, anywhere, professing to have any
+proposition of Jefferson Davis in writing, for peace, embracing the
+restoration of the Union and abandonment of slavery, whatever else it
+embraces, say to him he may come to me with you; and that if he
+really brings such proposition, he shall at the least have safe
+conduct with the paper (and without publicity, if he chooses) to the
+point where you shall have to meet him. The same if there be two or
+more persons.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. W. GARRETT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., July 9, 1864
+
+J. W. GARRETT, Camden Station:
+
+What have you heard about a battle at Monocacy to-day? We have
+nothing about it here except what you say.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM GENERAL HALLECK
+TO GENERAL WALLACE.
+WASHINGTON, July 9, 1864. 11.57 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL L. WALLACE, Commanding Middle Department:
+
+I am directed by the President to say that you will rally your forces
+and make every possible effort to retard the enemy's march on
+Baltimore.
+
+H. W. HALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO T. SWAN AND OTHERS.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., July 10, 1864. 9.20 A.M.
+
+THOMAS SWAN AND OTHERS, Baltimore, Maryland:
+
+Yours of last night received. I have not a single soldier but whom
+is being disposed by the military for the best protection of all. By
+latest accounts the enemy is moving on Washington. They cannot fly
+to either place. Let us be vigilant, but keep cool. I hope neither
+Baltimore nor Washington will be sacked.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON CITY, July TO, 1864.2 P.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Your dispatch to General Halleck, referring to what I may think in
+the present emergency, is shown me.  General Halleck says we have
+absolutely no force here fit to go to the field. He thinks that with
+the hundred-day men and invalids we have here we can defend
+Washington, and, scarcely, Baltimore. Besides these there are about
+eight thousand, not very reliable, under Howe, at Harper's Ferry with
+Hunter approaching that point very slowly, with what number I suppose
+you know better than I. Wallace, with some odds and ends, and part of
+what came up with Ricketts, was so badly beaten yesterday at
+Monocacy, that what is left can attempt no more than to defend
+Baltimore. What we shall get in from Pennsylvania and New York will
+scarcely be worth counting, I fear. Now, what I think is, that you
+should provide to retain your hold where you are, certainly, and
+bring the rest with you personally, and make a vigorous effort to
+destroy the enemy's forces in this vicinity. I think there is really
+a fair chance to do this, if the movement is prompt. This is what I
+think upon your suggestion, and is not an order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, July 11, 1864. 8 A.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Yours of 10.30 P.M. yesterday received, and very satisfactory. The
+enemy will learn of Wright's arrival, and then the difficulty will be
+to unite Wright and Hunter south of the enemy before he will recross
+the Potomac. Some firing between Rockville and here now.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., July 12, 1864. 11.30 AM.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Vague rumors have been reaching us for two or three days that
+Longstreet's corps is also on its way [to] this vicinity. Look out
+for its absence from your front.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM AND LETTER TO HORACE GREELEY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, July 12, 1864.
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY, New York:
+
+I suppose you received my letter of the 9th. I have just received
+yours of the 13th, and am disappointed by it. I was not expecting
+you to send me a letter, but to bring me a man, or men. Mr. Hay goes
+to you with my answer to yours of the 13th.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+[Carried by Major John Hay.]
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, JULY 15, 1864.
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:-Yours of the 13th is just received, and I am
+disappointed that you have not already reached here with those
+commissioners, if they would consent to come on being shown my letter
+to you of the 9th instant. Show that and this to them, and if they
+will come on the terms stated in the former, bring them. I not only
+intend a sincere effort for peace, but I intend that you shall be a
+personal witness that it is made.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+SAFE CONDUCT FOR CLEMENT C. CLAY AND OTHERS,
+
+JULY 16, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+By order of the President:
+JOHN HAY, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+[WASHINGTON] July 17. 1864. 11.25 A.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+In your dispatch of yesterday to General Sherman, I find the
+following, to wit:
+
+"I shall make a desperate effort to get a position here, which will
+hold the enemy without the necessity of so many men."
+
+Pressed as we are by lapse of time I am glad to hear you say this;
+and yet I do hope you may find a way that the effort shall not be
+desperate in the sense of great loss of life.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+President.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL D. HUNTER
+WASHINGTON JULY 17, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HUNTER, Harper's Ferry, West Va.
+
+Yours of this morning received.  You misconceive. The order you
+complain of was only nominally mine, and was framed by those who
+really made it with no thought of making you a scapegoat. It seemed
+to be General Grant's wish that the forces under General Wright and
+those under you should join and drive at the enemy under General
+Wright. Wright had the larger part of the force, but you had the
+rank. It was thought that you would prefer Crook's commanding your
+part to your serving in person under Wright. That is all of it.
+General Grant wishes you to remain in command of the department, and
+I do not wish to order otherwise.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, July 18, 1864. 11.25 A.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Chattahoochee River, Georgia:
+
+I have seen your despatches objecting to agents of Northern States
+opening recruiting stations near your camps. An act of Congress
+authorizes this, giving the appointment of agents to the States, and
+not to the Executive Government. It is not for the War Department,
+or myself, to restrain or modify the law, in its execution, further
+than actual necessity may require. To be candid, I was for the
+passage of the law, not apprehending at the time that it would
+produce such inconvenience to the armies in the field as you now
+cause me to fear. Many of the States were very anxious for it, and I
+hoped that, with their State bounties, and active exertions, they
+would get out substantial additions to our colored forces, which,
+unlike white recruits, help us where they come from, as well as where
+they go to. I still hope advantage from the law; and being a law, it
+must be treated as such by all of us. We here will do what we
+consistently can to save you from difficulties arising out of it.
+May I ask, therefore, that you will give your hearty co-operation.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANNOUNCEMENT CONCERNING TERMS OF PEACE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, July 18, 1864.
+
+TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CALLING FOR FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND VOLUNTEERS,
+
+JULY 18, 1864,
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+Whereas the new enrolment 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:
+
+Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States,
+do issue this my last call for five hundred thousand volunteers for
+the military service: Provided, nevertheless, That this call shall
+be reduced by all credits which may be established under section
+eight 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 services for which they enlist.
+
+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.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, July 20, 1864. 4.30 p.m.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Yours of yesterday, about a call for three hundred thousand, is
+received. I suppose you had not seen the call for five hundred
+thousand, made the day before, and which, I suppose, covers the case.
+Always glad to have your suggestions.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. L. WRIGHT.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, JULY. 20, 1864.
+
+J. L. WRIGHT, Indianapolis, Ind.:
+
+All a mistake. Mr. Stanton has not resigned.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL D. HUNTER.
+(Cipher.)
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, JULY 23, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HUNTER, Harper's Ferry, West Va.
+
+Are you able to take care of the enemy, when he turns back upon you,
+as he probably will on finding that Wright has left?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR CURTIN, ENCLOSING A LETTER TO WILLIAM O. SNIDER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, July 25, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR CURTIN:
+
+Herewith is the manuscript letter for the gentleman who sent me a
+cane through your hands. For my life I cannot make out his name; and
+therefore I cut it from his letter and pasted it on, as you see. I
+suppose [sic] will remember who he is, and I will thank you to
+forward him the letter. He dates his letter at Philadelphia.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, July 25, 1864.
+
+WILLIAM O. SNIDER:
+
+The cane you did me the honor to present through Governor Curtin was
+duly placed in my hand by him. Please accept my thanks; and, at the
+same time, pardon me for not having sooner found time to tender them.
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FROM JOHN HAY TO J. C. WELLING.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON.
+July 25, 1864.
+
+J. C. WELLING, ESQ.
+
+SIR:--According to the request contained in your note, I have placed
+Mr. Gibson's letter of resignation in the hands of the President. He
+has read the letter, and says he accepts the resignation, as he will
+be glad to do with any other, which may be tendered, as this is, for
+the purpose of taking an attitude of hostility against him.
+
+He says he was not aware that he was so much indebted to Mr. Gibson
+for having accepted the office at first, not remembering that he ever
+pressed him to do so, or that he gave it otherwise than as was usual,
+upon request made on behalf of Mr. Gibson.
+
+He thanks Mr. Gibson for his acknowledgment that he has been treated
+with personal kindness and consideration, and says he knows of but
+two small drawbacks upon Mr. Gibson's right to still receive such
+treatment, one of which is that he never could learn of his giving
+much attention to the duties of his office, and the other is this
+studied attempt of Mr. Gibson's to stab him.
+
+I am very truly,
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+JOHN HAY.
+
+
+
+
+TO COLONEL, FIRST N. Y. VETERAN CAVALRY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, JULY 25, 1864.
+
+Thomas Connor, a private in the First Veteran New York Cavalry, is
+now imprisoned at hard labor for desertion. If the Colonel of said
+Regiment will say in writing on this sheets that he is willing to
+receive him back to the Regiment, I will pardon, and send him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, July 26, 1864. 2.30 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, near Atlanta:
+
+I have just seen yours complaining of the appointment of Hovey and
+Osterhaus. The point you make is unquestionably a good one, and yet
+please hear a word from us. My recollection is that both General
+Grant and yourself recommended both H [ovey] and O [sterhaus] for
+promotion, and these, with other strong recommendations, drew
+committals from us which we could neither honorably or safely
+disregard. We blamed H [ovey] for coming away in the manner in which
+he did, but he knew he had apparent reason to feel disappointed and
+mortified, and we felt it was not best to crush one who certainly had
+been a good soldier. As to [Osterhaus], we did not know of his
+leaving at the time we made the appointment, and do not now know the
+terms on which he left. Not to have appointed him, as the case
+appeared to us at the time, would have been almost, if not quite, a
+violation of our word. The word was given on what we thought was
+high merit and somewhat on his nationality. I beg you to believe we
+do not act in a spirit of disregarding merit. We expect to await
+your programme for further changes and promotions in your army. My
+profoundest thanks to you and your whole army for the present
+campaign so far.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FROM SECRETARY STANTON TO GENERAL HALLECK.
+
+WASHINGTON CITY,
+July 27, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HALLECK,
+Chief of Staff of the Army:
+
+GENERAL:--Lieutenant-General Grant having signified that, owing to
+the difficulties and delay of communication between his headquarters
+and Washington, it is necessary that in the present emergency
+military orders must be issued directly from Washington, the
+President directs me to instruct you that all the military operations
+for the defense of the Middle Department, the Department of the
+Susquehanna, the Department of Washington, and the Department of West
+Virginia, and all the forces in those departments, are placed under
+your general command, and that you will be expected to take all
+military measures necessary for defense against any attack of the
+enemy and for his capture and destruction. You will issue from time
+to time such orders to the commanders of the respective departments
+and to the military authorities therein as may be proper.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+WASHINGTON, July 27, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR JOHNSON, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Yours in relation to General A. C. Gillam just received. Will look
+after the matter to-day.
+
+I also received yours about General Carl Schurz. I appreciate him
+certainly, as highly as you do; but you can never know until you have
+the trial, how difficult it is to find a place for an officer of so
+high rank when there is no place seeking him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO Mrs. ANNE WILLIAMSON,
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+July 29, 1864.
+
+Mrs. ANNE WILLIAMSON.
+
+MADAM:--The plaid you send me is just now placed in my hands. I
+thank you for that pretty and useful present, but still more for
+those good wishes for myself and our country, which prompted you to
+present it.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT, AUGUST 3, 1864.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, August 2, 1864.
+
+MR. PRESIDENT:--This note will introduce to you Mr. Schley of
+Baltimore, who desires to appeal to you for the revocation of an
+order of General Hunter, removing some persons, citizens of
+Frederick, beyond his lines, and imprisoning others. This Department
+has no information of the reasons or proofs on which General Hunter
+acts, and I do not therefore feel at liberty to suspend or interfere
+with his action except under your direction.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+[Indorsement.]
+
+August 3, 1864.
+
+The Secretary of War will suspend the order of General Hunter
+mentioned within, until further order and direct him to send to the
+Department a brief report of what is known against each one proposed
+to be dealt with.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U, S. GRANT.
+(Cipher.)
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C.. August 3, 1864
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+I have seen your despatch in which you say, "I want Sheridan put in
+command of all the troops in the field, with instructions to put
+himself south of the enemy, and follow him to the death. Wherever
+the enemy goes, let our troops go also."
+
+This, I think, is exactly right as to how our forces should move; but
+please look over the despatches you may have received from here, ever
+since you made that order, and discover, if you can, that there is
+any idea in the head of any one here of "putting our army south of
+the enemy," or of following him to the "death," in any direction. I
+repeat to you, it will neither be done nor attempted, unless you
+watch it every day and hour, and force it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+[Here the President was mistaken in thinking that Sherman and Grant
+had the same inability of most of his previous general officers.  No
+one needed to watch Grant or Sherman, they only needed to get out of
+their way. D.W.]
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HORACE GREELEY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 6, 1864
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY, New York:
+
+Yours to Major Hay about publication of our correspondence received.
+With the suppression of a few passages in your letters in regard to
+which I think you and I would not disagree, I should be glad of the
+publication. Please come over and see me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HORACE GREELEY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 8, 1864
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY, New York:
+
+I telegraphed you Saturday. Did you receive the despatch? Please
+answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ON DISLOYAL FAMILY MEMBER
+
+TO GENERAL S. O. BURBRIDGE.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+August 8, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURBRIDGE, Lexington, Ky.:
+
+Last December Mrs. Emily T. Helm, half-sister of Mrs. Lincoln, and
+widow of the rebel general, Ben Hardin Helm, stopped here on her way
+from Georgia to Kentucky, and I gave her a paper, as I remember, to
+protect her against the mere fact of her being General Helm's widow.
+I hear a rumor to-day that you recently sought to arrest her, but
+were prevented by her presenting the paper from me. I do not intend
+to protect her against the consequences of disloyal words or acts,
+spoken or done by her since her return to Kentucky, and if the paper
+given her by me can be construed to give her protection for such
+words and acts, it is hereby revoked pro tanto. Deal with her for
+current conduct just as you would with any other.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., August 14, 1864. 1.30 P.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+The Secretary of War and I concur that you had better confer with
+General Lee, and stipulate for a mutual discontinuance of
+house-burning and other destruction of private property. The time and
+manner of conference and particulars of stipulation we leave, on our
+part, to your convenience and judgment.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., August 15,1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, near Atlanta, Ga.:
+
+If the Government should purchase, on its own account, cotton
+northward of you, and on the line of your communications, would it be
+an inconvenience to you, or detriment to the military service, for it
+to come to the north on the railroad?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INTERVIEW WITH JOHN T. MILLS,
+
+AUGUST [15?], 1864.
+
+
+"Mr. President," said Governor Randall, "why can't you seek seclusion,
+and play hermit for a fortnight? It would reinvigorate you."
+
+"Ah," said the President, "two or three weeks would do me no good. I
+cannot fly from my thoughts--my solicitude for this great country
+follows me wherever I go. I do not think it is personal vanity or
+ambition, though I am not free from these infirmities, but I cannot
+but feel that the weal or woe of this great nation will be decided in
+November. There is no program offered by any wing of the Democratic
+party but that must result in the permanent destruction of the Union."
+
+"But, Mr. President, General McClellan is in favor of crushing out
+this rebellion by force. He will be the Chicago candidate."
+
+"Sir, the slightest knowledge of arithmetic will prove to any man
+that the rebel armies cannot be destroyed by Democratic strategy. It
+would sacrifice all the white men of the North to do it. There are
+now in the service of the United States nearly one hundred and fifty
+thousand able-bodied colored men, most of them under arms, defending
+and acquiring Union territory. The Democratic strategy demands that
+these forces be disbanded, and that the masters be conciliated by
+restoring them to slavery. The black men who now assist Union
+prisoners to escape are to be converted into our enemies, in the vain
+hope of gaining the good-will of their masters. We shall have to
+fight two nations instead of one.
+
+"You cannot conciliate the South if you guarantee to them ultimate
+success; and the experience of the present war proves their success
+is inevitable if you fling the compulsory labor of millions of black
+men into their side of the scale. Will you give our enemies such
+military advantages as insure success, and then depend on coaxing,
+flattery, and concession to get them back into the Union? Abandon all
+the posts now garrisoned by black men, take one hundred and fifty
+thousand men from our side and put them in the battle-field or
+corn-field against us, and we would be compelled to abandon the war
+in three weeks.
+
+"We have to hold territory in inclement and sickly places; where are
+the Democrats to do this? It was a free fight, and the field was open
+to the war Democrats to put down this rebellion by fighting against
+both master and slave, long before the present policy was
+inaugurated.
+
+"There have been men base enough to propose to me to return to
+slavery the black warriors of Port Hudson and Olustee, and thus win
+the respect of the masters they fought. Should I do so, I should
+deserve to be damned in time and eternity. Come what will, I will
+keep my faith with friend and foe. My enemies pretend I am now
+carrying on this war for the sole purpose of abolition. So long as I
+am President, it shall be carried on for the sole purpose of
+restoring the Union. But no human power can subdue this rebellion
+without the use of the emancipation policy, and every other policy
+calculated to weaken the moral and physical forces of the rebellion.
+
+"Freedom has given us one hundred and fifty thousand men, raised on
+Southern soil. It will give us more yet. Just so much it has
+subtracted from the enemy, and, instead of alienating the South,
+there are now evidences of a fraternal feeling growing up between our
+men and the rank and file of the rebel soldiers. Let my enemies
+prove to the country that the destruction of slavery is not necessary
+to a restoration of the Union. I will abide the issue."
+
+
+
+
+ENDORSEMENT OF APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT,
+AUGUST 15, 1864.
+
+I am always for the man who wishes to work; and I shall be glad for
+this man to get suitable employment at Cavalry Depot, or elsewhere.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO H. J. RAYMOND.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, August 15, 1864
+
+HON. HENRY J. RAYMOND.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have proposed to Mr. Greeley that the Niagara
+correspondence be published, suppressing only the parts of his
+letters over which the red pencil is drawn in the copy which I
+herewith send. He declines giving his consent to the publication of
+his letters unless these parts be published with the rest. I have
+concluded that it is better for me to submit, for the time, to the
+consequences of the false position in which I consider he has placed
+me, than to subject the country to the consequences of publishing
+these discouraging and injurious parts. I send you this, and the
+accompanying copy, not for publication, but merely to explain to you,
+and that you may preserve them until their proper time shall come.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 17, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+I have seen your despatch expressing your unwillingness to break your
+hold where you are. Neither am I willing. Hold on with a bulldog
+grip, and chew and choke as much as possible.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING COMMERCIAL REGULATIONS,
+AUGUST 18, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed. Done at the city of Washington,
+this eighteenth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United
+States of America, the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT CONCERNING AN EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS, AUGUST 18, 1864.
+
+If General Hitchcock can effect a special exchange of Thomas D.
+Armesy, now under conviction as a spy, or something of the sort, and
+in prison at for Major Nathan Goff, made a prisoner of war, and now
+in prison at Richmond, let it be done.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO THE 164TH OHIO REGIMENT,
+
+AUGUST 18, 1864.
+
+SOLDIERS:--You are about to return to your homes and your friends,
+after having, as I learn, performed in camp a comparatively short
+term of duty in this great contest. I am greatly obliged to you, and
+to all who have come forward at the call of their country. I wish it
+might be more generally and universally understood what the country
+is now engaged in. We have, as all will agree, a free government,
+where every man has a right to be equal with every other man. In
+this great struggle, this form of government and every form of human
+right is endangered if our enemies succeed. There is more involved
+in this contest than is realized by every one. There is involved in
+this struggle, the question whether your children and my children
+shall enjoy the privileges we have enjoyed. I say this, in order to
+impress upon you, if you are not already so impressed, that no small
+matter should divert us from our great purpose.
+
+There may be some inequalities in the practical application of our
+system. It is fair that each man shall pay taxes in exact proportion
+to the value of his property; but if we should wait, before
+collecting a tax, to adjust the taxes upon each man in exact
+proportion with every other man, we should never collect any tax at
+all. There may be mistakes made sometimes; and things may be done
+wrong, while the officers of the Government do all they can to
+prevent mistakes. But I beg of you, as citizens of this great
+Republic, not to let your minds be carried off from the great work we
+have before us. This struggle is too large for you to be diverted
+from it by any small matter. When you return to your homes, rise up
+to the height of a generation of men worthy of a free government, and
+we will carry out the great work we have commenced. I return to you
+my sincere thanks, soldiers, for the honor you have done me this
+afternoon.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., August 20, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Bermuda Hundred, Va.:
+
+Please allow Judge Snead to go to his family on Eastern Shore, or
+give me some good reason why not.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO THE 166TH OHIO REGIMENT,
+
+AUGUST 22, 1864.
+
+SOLDIERS--I suppose you are going home to see your families and
+friends. For the services you have done in this great struggle in
+which we are engaged, I present you sincere thanks for myself and the
+country.
+
+I almost always feel inclined, when I say anything to soldiers, to
+impress upon them, in a few brief remarks, the importance of success
+in this contest. It is not merely for the day, but for all time to
+come, that we should perpetuate for our children's children that
+great and free government which we have enjoyed all our lives. I beg
+you to remember this, not merely for my sake, but for yours. I
+happen, temporarily, to occupy this big White House. I am a living
+witness that any one of your children may look to come here as my
+father's child has. It is in order that each one of you may have,
+through this free government which we have enjoyed, an open field,
+and a fair chance for your industry, enterprise, and intelligence;
+that you may all have equal privileges in the race of life with all
+its desirable human aspirations--it is for this that the struggle
+should be maintained, that we may not lose our birthrights--not only
+for one, but for two or three years, if necessary. The nation is
+worth fighting for, to secure such an inestimable jewel.
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+August 23, 1864.
+
+This morning, as for some days past, it seems exceedingly probable
+that this administration will not be re-elected. Then it will be my
+duty to so co-operate with the President-elect as to save the Union
+between the election and the inauguration; as he will have secured
+his election on such ground that he cannot possibly save it
+afterward.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 26, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR JOHNSON, Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+Thanks to General Gillam for making the news and also to you for
+sending it. Does Joe Heiskell's "walking to meet us" mean any more
+than that "Joe" was scared and wanted to save his skin?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO B. H. BREWSTER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., August 30,1864.
+
+HON. B. H. BREWSTER, Astor House, New York:
+
+Your letter of yesterday received. Thank you for it. Please have no
+fears.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING COTTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, August 31, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO COLONEL HUIDEKOPER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+SEPTEMBER 1, 1864
+
+COLONEL H. C. HUIDEKOPER, Meadville, Penn.
+
+SIR: It is represented to me that there are at Rock Island,
+Illinois, as rebel prisoners of war, many persons of Northern and
+foreign birth who are unwilling to be exchanged and sent South, but
+who wish to take the oath of allegiance and enter the military
+service of the Union. Colonel Huidekoper, on behalf of the people of
+some parts of Pennsylvania, wishes to pay the bounties the Government
+would have to pay to proper persons of this class, have them enter
+the service of the United States, and be credited to the localities
+furnishing the bounty money. He will therefore proceed to Rock
+Island, ascertain the names of such persons (not including any
+who have attractions Southward), and telegraph them to the
+Provost-Marshal-General here, whereupon direction will be given to
+discharge the persons named upon their taking the oath of allegiance;
+and then upon the official evidence being furnished that they shall
+have been duly received and mustered into the service of the United
+States, their number will be credited as may be directed by Colonel
+Huidekoper.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OF THANKSGIVING,
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON CITY,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+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 worship in the United
+States, thanksgivings be offered to Him for His mercy in preserve our
+national existence against the insurgent rebels who have been waging
+a cruel war against the Government of the United States for its
+overthrow, and also that prayer be made for 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
+blessings 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDERS OF GRATITUDE AND REJOICING.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+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
+power 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+Ordered: First, That on Monday, the fifth day of September,
+commencing at the hour of twelve o'clock noon, there shall be given a
+salute of one hundred 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 the Secretary of the Navy will issue the
+necessary directions in their respective departments for the
+execution of this order.
+
+Second, That on Wednesday, the 7th of September, commencing at the
+hour of twelve o'clock noon, there shall be fired a salute of one
+hundred guns at the arsenal at Washington, and at New York, Boston,
+Philadelphia, Baltimore, Pittsburg, Newport (Ky.), and St. Louis,
+and New Orleans, Mobile, and Pensacola, Hilton Head, and Newbern, 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 for the capture of Atlanta. The Secretary of War will
+issue directions for the execution of this order.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+President Of the United States.
+
+
+
+
+TO MRS. GURNEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, SEPTEMBER 4, 1864.
+
+ELIZA P. GURNEY.
+
+MY ESTEEMED FRIEND:--I have not forgotten probably never shall forget
+the very impressive occasion when yourself and friends visited me on
+a Sabbath forenoon two years ago--nor has your kind letter, written
+nearly a year later, even been for gotten. In all, it has been your
+purpose to strengthen my reliance on God. I am much indebted to the
+good Christian people of the country for their constant prayer and
+consolations; and to no one of them, more than to yourself. The
+purposes of the Almighty are perfect, and must prevail, though we
+erring mortals may fail to accurately perceive them in advance. We
+hoped for a happy termination of this terrible war long before this;
+but God knows best, and has ruled otherwise. We shall yet
+acknowledge His wisdom, and our own error therein. Mean while we
+must work earnestly in the best light He gives us, trusting that so
+working still conduces to the great ends He ordains. Surely He
+intends some great good to follow this mighty convulsion, which no
+mortal could make, and no mortal could stay.
+
+Your people--the Friends--have had, and are having, a very great
+trial. On principle, and faith, opposed to both war and oppression,
+they can only practically oppose oppression by war. For those
+appealing to me on conscientious grounds, I have done, and shall do,
+the best I could and can, in my own conscience, under my oath to the
+law. That you believe this I doubt not, and believing it, I shall
+still receive, for our country and myself your earnest prayers to our
+Father in Heaven.
+
+Your sincere friend,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE OF COLORED PEOPLE FROM BALTIMORE WHO PRESENTED
+HIM WITH A BIBLE,
+
+SEPTEMBER 7, 1864.
+
+I can only say now, as I have often said before, it has always been a
+sentiment with me, that all mankind should be free. So far as I have
+been able, so far as came within my sphere, I have always acted as I
+believed was just and right, and done all I could for the good of
+mankind. I have, in letters sent forth from this office, expressed
+myself better than I can now.
+
+In regard to the great Book, I have only to say it is the best gift
+which God has ever given to man. All the good from the Saviour of
+the world is communicated to us through this book. But for that
+Book, we could not know right from wrong. All those things desirable
+to man are contained in it. I return you sincere thanks for this
+very elegant copy of this great Book of God which you present.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR PICKERING.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 8, 1864:
+
+GOVERNOR PICKERING, Olympia, W. T.:
+
+Your patriotic despatch of yesterday received and will be published.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER OF THANKS TO HUNDRED-DAY TROOPS FROM OHIO.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON CITY, September 10, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 12, 1864.
+
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Sheridan and Early are facing each other at a dead-lock. Could we
+not pick up a regiment here and there, to the number of say ten
+thousand men, and quietly but suddenly concentrate them at Sheridan's
+camp and enable him to make a strike?
+
+This is but a suggestion.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO JAMES G. BLAINE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., September 13, 1864.
+
+HON. J. G. BLAINE, Augusta, Me.:
+On behalf of the Union, thanks to Maine. Thanks to you personally
+for sending the news.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+P. S.--Send same to L. B. Smith and M. A. Blanchard, Portland, Me.
+A. L.
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, September 13, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Saint Louis:
+
+Postpone the execution of S. H. Anderson for two weeks. Hear what
+his friends can say in mitigation and report to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+MAJOR ECKERT:
+Please send the above telegram.
+
+JNO. G. NICOLAY, Private Secretary.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SLOUGH.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 16, 1864.
+
+GENERAL SLOUGH, Alexandria, Va.:
+
+On the 14th I commuted the sentence of Conley, but fearing you may
+not have received notice I send this. Do not execute him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 17,1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Atlanta, Georgia:
+
+I feel great interest in the subjects of your despatch mentioning
+corn and sorghum, and the contemplated visit to you.
+
+A. LINCOLN, President of the United States.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, September 19, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN:
+
+The State election of Indiana occurs on the 11th of October, and the
+loss of it to the friends of the Government would go far towards
+losing the whole Union cause. The bad effect upon the November
+election, and especially the giving the State government to those who
+will oppose the war in every possible way, are too much to risk if it
+can be avoided. The draft proceeds, notwithstanding its strong
+tendency to lose us the State. Indiana is the only important State
+voting in October whose soldiers cannot vote in the field. Anything
+you can safely do to let her soldiers or any part of them go home and
+vote at the State election will be greatly in point. They need not
+remain for the Presidential election, but may return to you at once.
+This is in no sense an order, but is merely intended to impress you
+with the importance to the Army itself of your doing all you safely
+can, yourself being the judge of what you can safely do.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT CONCERNING AN EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS, SEPTEMBER 1864.
+
+The writer of this, who appeals for his brother, is our minister to
+Ecuador, and whom, if at all compatible, I would like to have obliged
+by a special exchange of his brother.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL P. SHERIDAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, September 20, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERIDAN, Winchester, Va.:
+
+Have just heard of your great victory. God bless you all, officers
+and men. Strongly inclined to come up and See you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL HITCHCOCK,
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 21, 1864.
+
+GENERAL HITCHCOCK:
+
+Please see the bearer, Mr. Broadwell, on a question about a mutual
+supplying of clothes to prisoners.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 22, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+I send this as an explanation to you, and to do justice to the
+Secretary of War. I was induced, upon pressing application, to
+authorize the agents of one of the districts of Pennsylvania to
+recruit in one of the prison depots in Illinois; and the thing went
+so far before it came to the knowledge of the Secretary that, in my
+judgment, it could not be abandoned without greater evil than would
+follow its going through. I did not know at the time that you had
+protested against that class of thing being done; and I now say that
+while this particular job must be completed, no other of the sort
+will be authorized, without an understanding with you, if at all.
+The Secretary of War is wholly free of any part in this blunder.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO POSTMASTER-GENERAL BLAIR.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 23, 1864.
+
+
+HON. MONTGOMERY BLAIR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--You have generously said to me, more than once, that
+whenever your resignation could be a relief to me, it was at my
+disposal. The time has come. You very well know that this proceeds
+from no dissatisfaction of mine with you personally or officially.
+Your uniform kindness has been unsurpassed by that of any other
+friend, and while it is true that the war does not so greatly add to
+the difficulties of your department as to those of some others, it is
+yet much to say, as I most truly can, that in the three years and a
+half during which you have administered the General Post-Office, I
+remember no single complaint against you in connection therewith.
+
+Yours, as ever,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE PURCHASE OF PRODUCTS IN INSURRECTIONARY STATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, September 24, 1864.
+
+I. Congress having authorized the purchase for the United States of
+the products of States declared in insurrection, and the Secretary of
+the Treasury having designated New Orleans, Memphis, Nashville,
+Pensacola, Port Royal, Beaufort (North Carolina), and Norfolk, as
+places of purchase, and, with my approval, appointed agents and made
+regulations under which said products may be purchased, therefore:
+
+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 or parts 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 in transitu, or in store waiting transportation.
+
+III. Any person having the certificate of a purchasing agent, as
+prescribed by Treasury Regulation 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 fulfilment of the stipulations set forth in said certificate.
+
+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 I, shall be permitted by the
+military authority commanding at the place of sale to purchase from
+any authorized dealer at such place merchandise and other articles
+not contraband of war nor prohibited by 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 agents 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 routes set forth in the said
+certificate.
+
+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 of the order of such generals commanding, or other
+duly authorized military or naval officer, made in pursuance hereof,
+and all persons hindering or preventing such safe conduct of persons
+or property will, be deemed guilty of a military offense and punished
+accordingly.
+
+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 in transitu to any other person or than a purchasing
+agent and a designated of purchase shall be seized and forfeited to
+the 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, 1864.
+
+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 the insurrectionary States, or furnish transportation
+therefor under pain of being deemed guilty of unlawful trading with
+the enemy and punished accordingly.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 27, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Atlanta, Georgia:
+
+You say Jefferson Davis is on a visit to Hood. I judge that Brown
+and Stephens are the objects of his visit.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., September 29,1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+I hope it will have no constraint on you, nor do harm any way, for me
+to say I am a little afraid lest Lee sends reinforcements to Early,
+and thus enables him to turn upon Sheridan.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT.
+
+September 29, 1864.
+
+I think the bearer of this, Second Lieutenant Albee, deserves a
+hearing. Will the Secretary of War please accord it to him?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER RETURNING THANKS TO THE VOLUNTEERS FOR ONE HUNDRED DAYS FROM
+THE STATES OF INDIANA, ILLINOIS, IOWA, AND WISCONSIN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, October 1, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+October 5, 1864
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+I inclose you a copy of a correspondence in regard to a contemplated
+exchange of naval prisoners through your lines, and not very distant
+from your headquarters. It only came to the knowledge of the War
+Department and of myself yesterday, and it gives us some uneasiness.
+I therefore send it to you with the statement that, as the numbers to
+be exchanged under it are small, and so much has already been done to
+effect the exchange, I hope you may find it consistent to let it go
+forward under the general supervision of General Butler, and
+particularly in reference to the points he holds vital in exchanges.
+Still, you are at liberty to arrest the whole operation if in your
+judgment the public good requires it.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON A MEMORANDUM BY GENERAL McDOWELL,
+OCTOBER 7, 1864
+
+I well remember the meetings herein narrated. See nothing for me to
+object to in the narrative as being made by General McDowell, except
+the phrase attributed to me "of the Jacobinism of Congress,"
+
+     [This memorandum describes the private discussions that
+     preceded the transfer of McClellan's army from the Potomac,
+     where it had confronted the Confederates at Manassas. See H.
+     J. Raymond: Life of Lincoln, p. 772]
+
+which phrase I do not remember using literally or in substance, and
+which I wish not to be published in any event.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO H. W. HOFFMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, October 10, 1864.
+
+HON. HENRY W. HOFFMAN.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--A convention of Maryland has framed a new constitution
+for the State; a public meeting is called for this evening at
+Baltimore to aid in securing its ratification by the people, and you
+ask a word from me for the occasion. I presume the only feature of
+the instrument about which there is serious controversy is that which
+provides for the extinction of slavery. It needs not to be a secret
+and I presume it is no secret, that I wish success to this provision.
+I desire it on every consideration. I wish all men to be free. I
+wish the material prosperity of the already free, which I feel sure
+the extinction of slavery would bring. I wish to see in process of
+disappearing that only thing which ever could bring this nation to
+civil war. I attempt no argument. Argument upon the question is
+already exhausted by the abler, better informed, and more immediately
+interested sons of Maryland herself. I only add that I shall be
+gratified exceedingly if the good people of the State shall, by their
+votes, ratify the new constitution.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR CURTIN.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 10, 1864, 5 P.M.
+
+GOVERNOR CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.:
+
+Yours of to-day just this moment received, and the Secretary having
+left it is impossible for me to answer to-day. I have not received
+your letter from Erie.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO ROBERT T. LINCOLN, Cambridge, Mass.:
+
+Your letter makes us a little uneasy about your health. Telegraph us
+how you are. If you think it would help you, make us a visit.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 12, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Secretary of War not being in, I answer yours about election.
+Pennsylvania very close, and still in doubt on home vote. Ohio
+largely for us, with all the members of Congress but two or three.
+Indiana largely for us,--Governor, it is said, by fifteen thousand,
+and eight of the eleven members of Congress. Send us what you may
+know of your army vote.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+
+OCTOBER 19, 1864.
+
+
+FRIENDS AND FELLOW-CITIZENS:--I am notified that this is a compliment
+paid me by the loyal Marylanders resident in this District. I infer
+that the adoption of the new constitution for the State furnishes the
+occasion, and that in your view the extirpation of slavery
+constitutes the chief merit of the new constitution. Most heartily
+do I congratulate you, and Maryland, and the nation, and the world,
+upon this event. I regret that it did not occur two years sooner,
+which, I am sure, would have saved the nation more money than would
+have met all the private loss incident to the measure; but it has
+come at last, and I sincerely hope its friends may fully realize all
+their anticipations of good from it, and that its opponents may by
+its effects be agreeably and profitably disappointed.
+
+A word upon another subject. Something said by the Secretary of
+State in his recent speech at Auburn, has been construed by some into
+a threat, that if I shall be beaten at the election, I will, between
+then and the end of my constitutional term, do what I may be able to
+ruin the Government.
+
+Others regard the fact that the Chicago Convention adjourned, not
+sine die, but to meet again, if called to do so by a particular
+individual, as the intimation of a purpose that if their nominee
+shall be elected he will at once seize control of the Government. I
+hope the good people will permit themselves to suffer no uneasiness
+on either point. I am struggling to maintain the Government, not to
+overthrow it. I am struggling especially to prevent others from
+overthrowing it. I therefore say, that if I live, I shall remain
+President until the 4th of next March, and that whoever shall be
+constitutionally elected, in November, shall be duly installed as
+President on the 4th of March, and in the interval I shall do my
+utmost that whoever is to hold the helm for the next voyage shall
+start with the best possible chance of saving the ship. This is due
+to the people, both on principle and under the Constitution. Their
+will, constitutionally expressed, is the ultimate law for all. If
+they should deliberately resolve to have immediate peace, even at the
+loss of their country and their liberties, I know not the power or
+the right to resist them. It is their own business, and they must do
+as they please with their own. I believe, however, they are still
+resolved to preserve their country and their liberties; and in this,
+in office or out of it, I am resolved to stand by them. I may add,
+that in this purpose to save the country and its liberties, no
+classes of people seem so nearly unanimous as the soldiers in the
+field and the sailors afloat. Do they not have the hardest of it?
+Who should quail while they do not? God bless the soldiers and
+seamen, with all their brave commanders.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OF THANKSGIVING, OCTOBER 20, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+working-men 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.
+
+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 be then, 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.
+
+In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this twentieth day of October, in the
+year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-four, and of
+the independence of the United States the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM To J. G. NICOLAY.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 21, 1864. 9.45 P.M.
+
+J. G. NICOLAY, Saint Louis, Missouri:
+
+While Curtis is fighting Price, have you any idea where the force
+under Rosecrans is, or what it is doing?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO WILLIAM B. CAMPBELL AND OTHERS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+October 22, 1864.
+
+
+MESSRS WILLIAM B. CAMPBELL, THOMAS A. R. NELSON, JAMES T. P. CARTER,
+JOHN WILLIAMS, A. BLIZZARD, HENRY COOPER, BAILLIE PEYTON, JOHN
+LELLYET, EMERSON ETHERIDGE, and JOHN D. PERRYMAN.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--On the 15th day of this month, as I remember, a printed
+paper manuscript, with a few manuscript interlineations, called a
+protest, with your names appended thereto, and accompanied by another
+printed paper, purporting to be a proclamation by Andrew Johnson,
+Military Governor of Tennessee, and also a manuscript paper,
+purporting to be extracts from the Code of Tennessee, were laid
+before me.
+
+The protest, proclamation, and extracts are respectively as follows:
+
+[The protest is here recited, and also the proclamation of Governor
+Johnson, dated September 30, to which it refers, together with a list
+of the counties in East, Middle, and West Tennessee; also extracts
+from the Code of Tennessee in relation to electors of President and
+Vice-President, qualifications of voters for members of the General
+Assembly, places of holding elections, and officers of popular
+elections.]
+
+At the time these papers were presented, as before stated, I had
+never seen either of them, nor heard of the subject to which they
+related, except in a general way one day previously.
+
+Up to the present moment, nothing whatever upon the subject has
+passed between Governor Johnson, or any one else, connected with the
+proclamation, and myself.
+
+Since receiving the papers, as stated, I have given the subject such
+brief consideration as I have been able to do, in the midst of so
+many pressing public duties.
+
+My conclusion is, that I can have nothing to do with the matter,
+either to sustain the plan as the convention and Governor Johnson
+have initiated it, or to revoke or modify it as you demand.
+
+By the Constitution and laws, the President is charged with no duty
+in the presidential election in any State, nor do I in this case
+perceive any military reason for his interference in the matter.
+
+The movement set on foot by the convention and Governor Johnson does
+not, as seems to be assumed by you, emanate from the National
+Executive.
+
+In no proper sense can it be considered other than an independent
+movement of, at least, a portion of the loyal people of Tennessee.
+
+I do not perceive in the plan any menace, or violence, or coercion
+towards any one.
+
+Governor Johnson, like any other loyal citizen of Tennessee, has the
+right to favor any political plan he chooses, and, as military
+governor, it is his duty to keep peace among and for the loyal people
+of the State.
+
+I cannot discern that by this plan he purposes any more. But you
+object to the plan.
+
+Leaving it alone will be your perfect security against it. It is not
+proposed to force you into it. Do as you please, on your own
+account, peaceably and loyally, and Governor Johnson will not molest
+you, but will protect you against violence as far as in his power.
+
+I presume that the conducting of a presidential election in Tennessee
+in strict accordance with the old Code of the State, is not now a
+possibility.
+
+It is scarcely necessary to add, that if any election shall be held
+and any votes shall be cast in the State of Tennessee for President
+and Vice-President of the United States, it will belong, not to the
+military agents, nor yet to the Executive Department, but exclusively
+to another department of the Government, to determine whether they
+are entitled to be counted in conformity with the Constitution and
+laws of the United States.
+
+Except it be to give protection against violence, I decline to
+interfere in any way with any presidential election.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL P. H. SHERIDAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, October 22, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERIDAN:
+
+With great pleasure I tender to you and your brave army the thanks of
+the nation, and my own personal admiration and gratitude, for the
+month's operations in the Shenandoah Valley; and especially for the
+splendid work of October 19, 1864.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. H. THOMAS.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 23, 1864 5 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+I have received information to-day, having great appearance of
+authenticity, that there is to be a rebel raid into Western Kentucky;
+that it is to consist of four thousand infantry and three thousand
+cavalry, and is to start from Corinth, Mississippi, On the fourth day
+of November.
+
+A. LINCOLN, President.
+
+Send copy to General Washburn at Memphis.
+A. L.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO T. T. DAVIS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D.C., October 31, 1864.
+
+HON. THOMAS T. DAVIS, Syracuse, N.Y.:
+
+I have ordered that Milton D. Norton be discharged on taking the
+oath.  Please notify his mother.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION ADMITTING NEVADA INTO THE UNION
+
+OCTOBER 31, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation
+
+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,
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of
+the United States to be affixed..........
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BURBRIDGE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 4, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURBRIDGE, Lexington, Ky.
+
+Suspend execution of all the deserters ordered to be executed on
+Sunday at Louisville, until further order, and send me the records in
+the cases. Acknowledge receipt.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO NAVAL OFFICER AT MOBILE BAY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 6, 1864. 9 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL CANBY, New Orleans, La.:
+
+Please forward with all possible despatch to the naval officer
+commanding at Mobile Bay the following order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+(Inclosure.)
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 6, 1864.
+
+NAVAL OFFICER IN COMMAND AT MOBILE BAY
+
+Do not on any account, or on any showing of authority whatever, from
+whomsoever purporting to come, allow the blockade to be violated.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SAILORS' FAIR, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 8, 1864.
+
+TO THE MANAGING COMMITTEE OF THE SAILORS' FAIR,
+Boston, Massachusetts
+
+Allow me to wish you a great success. With the old fame of the Navy
+made brighter in the present war you cannot fail. I name none lest I
+wrong others by omission. To all, from rear-admiral to honest Jack,
+I tender the nation's admiration and gratitude.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO A. H. RICE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 8, 1864.
+
+HON. A. H. RICE, Boston, Massachusetts:
+
+Yours received. I have no other notice that the ox is mine. If it be
+really so, I present it to the Sailors' Fair as a contribution.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+WASHINGTON, November 8, 1864.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Auburn, New York:
+
+News from Grant, Sherman, Thomas and Rosecrans satisfactory, but not
+important. Pirate Florida captured by the Wachusett October 7, on
+the coast of Brazil. The information is certain.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+NOVEMBER 9, 1864.
+
+FRIENDS AND FELLOW-CITIZENS:--Even before I had been informed by you
+that this compliment was paid me by loyal citizens of Pennsylvania,
+friendly to me, I had inferred that you were of that portion of my
+countrymen who think that the best interests of the nation are to be
+subserved by the support of the present administration. I do not
+pretend to say that you, who think so, embrace all the patriotism and
+loyalty of the country, but I do believe, and I trust without
+personal interest, that the welfare of the country does require that
+such support and indorsement should be given.
+
+I earnestly believe that the consequences of this day's work, if it
+be as you assume, and as now seems probable, will be to the lasting
+advantage, if not to the very salvation, of the country.  I cannot
+at this hour say what has been the result of the election.  But,
+whatever it may be, I have no desire to modify this opinion: that all
+who have labored to-day in behalf of the Union have wrought for the
+best interests of the country and the world; not only for the
+present, but for all future ages.
+
+I am thankful to God for this approval of the people; but, while
+deeply grateful for this mark of their confidence in me, if I know my
+heart, my gratitude is free from any taint of personal triumph. I do
+not impugn the motives of any one opposed to me. It is no pleasure
+to me to triumph over any one, but I give thanks to the Almighty for
+this evidence of the people's resolution to stand by free government
+and the rights of humanity.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO H. W. HOFFMAN.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C. November 10, 1864.
+
+H. HOFFMAN, Baltimore, Md.:
+
+The Maryland soldiers in the Army of the Potomac cast a total vote of
+fourteen hundred and twenty-eight, out of which we get eleven hundred
+and sixty majority. This is directly from General Meade and General
+Grant.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ON DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+NOVEMBER 10, 1864.
+
+It has long been a grave question whether any government, not too
+strong for the liberties of its people, can be strong enough to
+maintain its existence in great emergencies. On this point the
+present rebellion brought our government to a severe test, and a
+presidential election occurring in regular course during the
+rebellion, added not a little to the strain.
+
+If the loyal people united were put to the utmost of their strength
+by the rebellion, must they not fail when divided and partially
+paralyzed by a political war among themselves? But the election was a
+necessity.  We cannot have free government without elections; and if
+the election could force us to forego or postpone a national
+election, it might fairly claim to have already conquered and ruined
+us. The strife of the election is but human nature practically
+applied to the facts of the case. What has occurred in this case
+must ever recur in similar cases. Human nature will not change. In
+any future great national trial, compared with the men of this, we
+will have as weak and as strong, as silly and as wise, as bad and as
+good. Let us, therefore, study the incidents of this as philosophy
+to learn wisdom from, and none of them as wrongs to be revenged.
+
+But the election, along with its incidental and undesirable strife,
+has done good, too. It has demonstrated that a people's government
+can sustain a national election in the midst of a great civil war.
+Until now, it has not been known to the world that this was a
+possibility. It shows, also, how sound and strong we still are. It
+shows that even among the candidates of the same party, he who is
+most devoted to the Union and most opposed to treason can receive
+most of the people's votes. It shows, also, to the extent yet known,
+that we have more men now than we had when the war began.  Gold is
+good in its place; but living, brave, and patriotic men are better
+than gold.
+
+But the rebellion continues, and, now that the election is over, may
+not all have a common interest to reunite in a common effort to save
+our common country? For my own part, I have striven and shall strive
+to avoid placing any obstacle in the way. So long as I have been
+here, I have not willingly planted a thorn in any man's bosom. While
+I am duly sensible to the high compliment of a re-election, and duly
+grateful, as I trust, to Almighty God, for having directed my
+countrymen to a right conclusion, as I think, for their good, it adds
+nothing to my satisfaction that any other man may be disappointed by
+the result.
+
+May I ask those who have not differed with me to join with me in this
+same spirit towards those who have? And now, let me close by asking
+three hearty cheers for our brave soldiers and seamen, and their
+gallant and skillful commanders.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL S. O. BURBRIDGE.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., November 10, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURBRIDGE, Lexington, Ky.:
+
+I have just received a telegram from Governor Bramlette saying:
+"General John B. Houston, a loyal man and prominent citizen, was
+arrested, and yesterday, started off by General Burbridge, to be sent
+beyond our lines by way of Catlettsburg, for no other offense than
+opposition to your re-election," and I have answered him as follows
+below, of which please take notice and report to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+WASHINGTON, D.C., November 10, 1864.
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Ky.:
+
+Yours of yesterday received. I can scarcely believe that General
+John B. Houston has been arrested "for no other offense than
+opposition to my re-election;" for, if that had been deemed
+sufficient cause of arrest, I should have heard of more than one
+arrest in Kentucky on election day. If, however, General Houston has
+been arrested for no other cause than opposition to my re-election,
+General Burbridge will discharge him at once, I sending him a copy of
+this as an order to that effect.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL S. A. HURLBUT.
+(Private.)
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, November 14, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HURLBUT:
+
+Few things since I have been here have impressed me more painfully
+than what, for four or five months past, has appeared a bitter
+military opposition to the new State government of Louisiana.  I
+still indulged some hope that I was mistaken in the fact; but copies
+of a correspondence on the subject between General Canby and
+yourself, and shown me to-day, dispel that hope. A very fair
+proportion of the people of Louisiana have inaugurated a new State
+government, making an excellent new constitution--better for the poor
+black man than we have in Illinois. This was done under military
+protection, directed by me, in the belief, still sincerely
+entertained, that with such a nucleus around which to build we could
+get the State into position again sooner than otherwise. In this
+belief a general promise of protection and support, applicable alike
+to Louisiana and other States, was given in the last annual message.
+During the formation of the new government and constitution they were
+supported by nearly every loyal person, and opposed by every
+secessionist. And this support and this opposition, from the
+respective standpoints of the parties, was perfectly consistent and
+logical. Every Unionist ought to wish the new government to succeed;
+and every disunionist must desire it to fail. Its failure would
+gladden the heart of Slidell in Europe, and of every enemy of the old
+flag in the world. Every advocate of slavery naturally desires to
+see blasted and crushed the liberty promised the black man by the new
+constitution. But why General Canby and General Hurlbut should join
+on the same side is to me incomprehensible.
+
+Of course, in the condition of things at New Orleans, the military
+must not be thwarted by the civil authority; but when the
+Constitutional Convention, for what it deems a breach of privilege,
+arrests an editor in no way connected with the military, the military
+necessity for insulting the convention and forcibly discharging the
+editor is difficult to perceive. Neither is the military necessity
+for protecting the people against paying large salaries fixed by a
+legislature of their own choosing very apparent. Equally difficult
+to perceive is the military necessity for forcibly interposing to
+prevent a bank from loaning its own money to the State. These
+things, if they have occurred, are, at the best, no better than
+gratuitous hostility. I wish I could hope that they may be shown not
+to have occurred. To make assurance against misunderstanding, I
+repeat that in the existing condition of things in Louisiana, the
+military must not be thwarted by the civil authority; and I add that
+on points of difference the commanding general must be judge and
+master. But I also add that in the exercise of this judgment and
+control, a purpose, obvious, and scarcely unavowed, to transcend all
+military necessity, in order to crush out the civil government, will
+not be overlooked.
+
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO MARYLAND UNION COMMITTEE,
+NOVEMBER 17, 1864.
+
+The President, in reply, said that he had to confess he had been duly
+notified of the intention to make this friendly call some days ago,
+and in this he had had a fair opportunity afforded to be ready with a
+set speech; but he had not prepared one, being too busy for that
+purpose. He would say, however, that he was gratified with the
+result of the presidential election. He had kept as near as he could
+to the exercise of his best judgment for the interest of the whole
+country, and to have the seal of approbation stamped on the course he
+had pursued was exceedingly grateful to his feelings. He thought he
+could say, in as large a sense as any other man, that his pleasure
+consisted in belief that the policy he had pursued was the best, if
+not the only one, for the safety of the country.
+
+He had said before, and now repeated, that he indulged in no feeling
+of triumph over any man who thought or acted differently from
+himself. He had no such feeling toward any living man. When he
+thought of Maryland, in particular, he was of the opinion that she
+had more than double her share in what had occurred in the recent
+elections. The adoption of a free-State constitution was a greater
+thing than the part taken by the people of the State in the
+presidential election. He would any day have stipulated to lose
+Maryland in the presidential election to save it by the adoption of a
+free-State constitution, because the presidential election comes
+every four years, while that is a thing which, being done, cannot be
+undone.  He therefore thought that in that they had a victory for
+the right worth a great deal more than their part in the presidential
+election, though of the latter he thought highly. He had once before
+said, but would say again, that those who have differed with us and
+opposed us will see that the result of the presidential election is
+better for their own good than if they had been successful.
+
+Thanking the committee for their compliment, he brought his brief
+speech to a close.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING BLOCKADE,
+NOVEMBER 19, 1864
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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:
+
+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 deeemd advisable that they should be opened to
+domestic and foreign commerce:
+
+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 first 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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed. Done at the city of Washington,
+this nineteenth day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United
+States the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+FIVE-STAR MOTHER
+
+TO MRS. BIXBY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+November 21, 1864.
+
+MRS. BIXBY, Boston, Massachusetts.
+
+DEAR MADAM:--I have been shown in the files of the War Department a
+statement of the Adjutant-General of Massachusetts that you are the
+mother of five sons who have died gloriously on the field of battle.
+I feel how weak and fruitless must be any words of mine which should
+attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming. But
+I cannot refrain from tendering to you the consolation that may be
+found in the thanks of the Republic they died to save. I pray that
+our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and
+leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the
+solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice
+upon the altar of freedom.
+
+Yours very sincerely and respectfully,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. PHILLIPS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+November 21, 1864.
+
+DEACON JOHN PHILLIPS.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have heard of the incident at the polls in your town,
+in which you acted so honorable a part, and I take the liberty of
+writing to you to express my personal gratitude for the compliment
+paid me by the suffrage of a citizen so venerable.
+
+The example of such devotion to civic duties in one whose days have
+already been extended an average lifetime beyond the Psalmist's
+limit, cannot but be valuable and fruitful. It is not for myself
+only, but for the country which you have in your sphere served so
+long and so well, that I thank you.
+
+Your friend and servant,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE.
+WASHINGTON, D. C. NOVEMBER 22, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Ky.:
+
+Yours of to-day received. It seems that Lieutenant-Governor Jacobs
+and Colonel Wolford are stationary now. General Sudarth and Mr.
+Hodges are here, and the Secretary of War and myself are trying to
+devise means of pacification and harmony for Kentucky, which we hope
+to effect soon, now that the passion-exciting subject of the election
+is past.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR CURTIN,
+WASHINGTON, D.C., NOVEMBER 25, 1864
+
+GOVERNOR CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania;
+
+I have no knowledge, information, or belief, that three States--or
+any States, offer to resume allegiance.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON D.C., NOV. 26, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS:
+
+Please telegraph me briefly on what charge and evidence Mrs. Anna B.
+Martin has been sent to the penitentiary at Alton.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM,
+
+DECEMBER 3, 1864.
+
+On Thursday of last week, two ladies from Tennessee came before the
+President, asking the release of their husbands held as prisoners of
+war at Johnson's Island. They were put off until Friday, when they
+came again, and were again put off until Saturday. At each of the
+interviews one of the ladies urged that her husband was a religious
+man, and on Saturday the President ordered the release of the
+prisoners, when he said to this lady: "You say your husband is a
+religious man; tell him when you meet him, that I say I am not much
+of a judge of religion, but that, in my opinion, the religion that
+sets men to rebel and fight against their own government, because, as
+they think, that government does not sufficiently help some men to
+eat their bread in the sweat of other men's faces, is not the sort of
+religion upon which people can get to heaven."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE STEAMER "FUNAYMA SOLACE."
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 3, 1864.
+
+A war steamer, called the Funayma Solace, 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+WASHINGTON CITY, December 5, 1864
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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 whilst in command of the United States steamer
+Keaysarge, which led to the total destruction of the piratical craft
+Alabama, on the 19th of June, 1864., a vessel superior in tonnage,
+superior in number of guns, and superior in number of crew.
+
+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:
+
+That any line officer of the navy or marine corps may be advanced one
+grade, if, upon recommendation by the President by name he receives
+the thanks of Congress for highly distinguished conduct in conflict
+with the enemy, or far extraordinary heroism in the line of his
+profession.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+WASHINGTON CITY, December 5, 1864.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend
+that Lieutenant William B. Gushing, United States Navy, receive a
+vote of thanks from Congress for his important, gallant, and perilous
+achievement in destroying the rebel ironclad steamer Albemarle on the
+night of the 27th of October, 1864., at Plymouth, N. C.
+
+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.
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANNUAL MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+DECEMBER 6, 1864.
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+Again the blessings of health and abundant harvests claim our
+profoundest gratitude to Almighty God.
+
+The condition of our foreign affairs is reasonably satisfactory.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Our relations are of the most friendly nature with Chile, the
+Argentine Republic, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Paraguay, San Salvador, and
+Haiti.
+
+During the past year no differences of any kind have arisen with any
+of these republics, and on the other hand, their sympathies with the
+United States are constantly expressed with cordiality and
+earnestness.
+
+The claim arising from the seizure of the cargo of the brig
+Macedonian in 1821 has been paid in full by the Government of Chile.
+
+Civil war continues in the Spanish part of San Domingo, apparently
+without prospect of an early close.
+
+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.
+
+I solicit your authority to furnish to the republic a gunboat, at
+moderate cost, to be reimbursed to the United States by instalments.
+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.
+
+The proposed overland telegraph between America and Europe, by the
+way of Bering 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 co-operate 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The rebellion which has so long been flagrant in China has at last
+been suppressed, with the co-operating 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 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.
+
+Commissioners have been appointed under the treaty with Great Britain
+on the adjustment of the claims of the Hudson Bay and Puget Sound
+Agricultural Companies, in Oregon, and are now proceeding to the
+execution of the trust assigned to them.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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. 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.
+
+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
+$1,394,196,007.62, 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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
+be such additional legislation as shall be required to meet the just
+expectations of the Secretary.
+
+The public debt on the first 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 $500,000,000. 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 bona fide 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.
+
+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.
+
+The public debt on the first 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.
+
+The national banking system is proving to be acceptable to
+capitalists and to the people. On the twenty-fifth day of November
+five hundred and eighty-four 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The general exhibit of the Navy, including vessels under construction
+on the first of December, 1864, shows a total of 671 vessels,
+carrying 4610 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.
+
+The total number of men at this time in the naval service, including
+officers, is about 51,000.
+
+There have been captured by the Navy during the year 324 vessels, and
+the whole number of naval captures since hostilities commenced is
+1379, of which 267 are steamers.
+
+The gross proceeds arising from the sale of condemned prize property
+thus far reported amount to $14,369,250.51. A large amount of such
+proceeds is still under adjudication and yet to be reported.
+
+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 fourth of March, 1861, to the first of
+November, 1864, is $238,647,262.35.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 $206,532.42.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The quantity of public land disposed of during the five quarters
+ending on the thirtieth 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.
+
+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.
+
+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 one hundred miles westward from the initial
+point at Omaha City, Nebraska, 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.
+
+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 produce of the mines of precious metals in that
+region has during the year reached, if not exceeded, $100,000,000 in
+value.
+
+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.
+
+
+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.
+
+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
+1430. Only twelve of them were soldiers, of whom seven have since
+died. The remainder are those who under the law receive pensions
+because of relationship to Revolutionary soldiers. During the year
+ending the thirtieth of June, 1864, $4,504,616.92 have been paid to
+pensioners of all classes.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The most remarkable feature in the military operations of the year is
+General Sherman's attempted march of three hundred 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.
+
+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 twelve
+thousand 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.
+
+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 time 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.
+
+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.
+
+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 how the
+increase has been produced or to show that it would have been greater
+but for the war, which is probably true. The important fact remains
+demonstrated that we have more men now than we had when the war
+began; that we are not exhausted nor in process of exhaustion; that
+we are gaining strength and may if need be maintain the contest
+indefinitely. [This sentence recognizes the concern of a guerilla
+war after the main war finished.]This as to men. Material resources
+are now more complete and abundant than ever.
+
+The national resources, then, are unexhausted, and, as we believe,
+inexhaustible. The public purpose to re-establish 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.
+
+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.
+
+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
+re-enslave such persons, another, and not I, must be their instrument
+to perform it.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+DECEMBER 6, 1864.
+
+FRIENDS AND FELLOW-CITIZENS:--I believe I shall never be old enough
+to speak without embarrassment when I have nothing to talk about. I
+have no good news to tell you, and yet I have no bad news to tell.
+We have talked of elections until there is nothing more to say about
+them. The most interesting news now we have is from Sherman. We all
+know where he went in at, but I can't tell where he will come out at.
+I will now close by proposing three cheers for General Sherman and
+his army.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR HALL.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 7, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR HALL, Jefferson City, Mo.:
+
+Complaint is made to me of the doings of a man at Hannibal, Mo., by
+the name of Haywood, who, as I am told, has charge of some militia
+force, and is not in the United States service. Please inquire into
+the matter and correct anything you may find amiss if in your power.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COLONEL FASLEIGH.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 8, 1864.
+
+COLONEL FASLEIGH, Louisville, Ky.:
+
+I am appealed to in behalf of a man by the name of Frank Fairbairns,
+said to have been for a long time and still in prison, without any
+definite ground stated. How is it?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER APPOINTING COMMISSIONERS TO INVESTIGATE THE MILITARY DIVISION
+WEST OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, December 10, 1864.
+
+ORDERED, First, that Major-General William P. 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G, H. THOMAS.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., December 16, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Please accept for yourself, officers, and men, the nation's thanks
+for your good work of yesterday. You made a magnificent beginning; a
+grand consummation is within your easy reach. Do not let it slip.
+
+A. LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+ORIGIN OF THE "GREENBACK" CURRENCY
+
+TO COLONEL B. D. TAYLOR
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December [16 ?], 1864.
+
+DEAR COLONEL DICK:--I have long determined to make public the origin
+of the greenback and tell the world that it is Dick Taylor's
+creation. You had always been friendly to me, and when troublous
+times fell on us, and my shoulders, though broad and willing, were
+weak, and myself surrounded by such circumstances and such people
+that I knew not whom to trust, then I said in my extremity: "I will
+send for Colonel Taylor; he will know what to do." I think it was in
+January, 1862, on or about the 16th, that I did so. You came, and I
+said to you:
+
+"What can we do?" Said you, "Why, issue Treasury notes bearing no
+interest, printed on the best banking paper. Issue enough to pay off
+the Army expenses and declare it legal tender."
+
+Chase thought it a hazardous thing, but we finally accomplished it,
+and gave the people of this Republic the greatest blessing they ever
+had-their own paper to pay their own debts.
+
+It is due to you, the father of the present greenback, that the
+people should know it, and I take great pleasure in making it known.
+How many times have I laughed at you telling me plainly that I was
+too lazy to be anything but a lawyer.
+
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT CHATTANOOGA.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 16, 1864
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND at Chattanooga, Tenn.:
+
+It is said that Harry Walters, a private in the Anderson cavalry, is
+now and for a long time has been in prison at Chattanooga. Please
+report to me what is his condition, and for what he is imprisoned.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+CALL FOR 300,000 VOLUNTEERS, DECEMBER 19, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+A Proclamation
+
+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
+country 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
+
+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
+
+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
+
+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):
+
+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 fifteenth 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 fifteenth day of February, 1865.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed..........
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+SHERMAN'S MARCH TO THE SEA
+
+TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 26, 1864
+
+MY DEAR GENERAL SHERMAN:--Many, many thanks for your Christmas gift,
+the capture of Savannah.
+
+When you were about leaving Atlanta for the Atlantic coast, I was
+anxious, if not fearful; but feeling that you were the better judge,
+and remembering that "nothing risked, nothing gained," I did not
+interfere. Now, the undertaking being a success, the honor is all
+yours; for I believe none of us went further than to acquiesce.
+
+And taking the work of General Thomas into the count, as it should be
+taken, it is indeed a great success. Not only does it afford the
+obvious and immediate military advantages; but in showing to the
+world that your army could be divided, putting the stronger part to
+an important new service, and yet leaving enough to vanquish the old
+opposing force of the whole,--Hood's army,--it brings those who sat
+in darkness to see a great light. But what next?
+
+I suppose it will be safe if I leave General Grant and yourself to
+decide.
+
+Please make my grateful acknowledgments to your whole army of
+officers and men.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT LEXINGTON.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 27, 1864.
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND at Lexington, Ky.:
+
+If within your power send me the particulars of the causes for which
+Lieutenant-Governor Jacob was arrested and sent away.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. MACLEAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 27, 1864.
+
+
+Dr. JOHN MACLEAN:
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have the honor to acknowledge the reception of your
+note of the twentieth of December, conveying the announcement that
+the Trustees of the College of New Jersey had conferred upon me the
+degree of Doctor of Laws.
+
+The assurance conveyed by this high compliment, that the course of
+the Government which I represent, has received the approval of a body
+of gentlemen of such character and intelligence, in this time of
+public trial, is most grateful to me.
+
+Thoughtful men must feel that the fate of civilization upon this
+continent is involved in the issue of our contest. Among the most
+gratifying proofs of this conviction is the hearty devotion
+everywhere exhibited by our schools and colleges to the national
+cause.
+
+I am most thankful if my labors have seemed to conduct to the
+preservation of those institutions, under which alone we can expect
+good government and in its train sound learning, and the progress of
+the liberal arts.
+
+I am, sir, very truly, your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT NASHVILLE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 28, 1864.
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND at Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+Suspend execution of James R. Mallory, for six weeks from Friday the
+thirtieth of this month, which time I have given his friends to make
+proof, if they can, upon certain points.
+
+A. LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 28, 1864. 5.30 p.m.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+If there be no objection, please tell me what you now understand of
+the Wilmington expedition, present and prospective.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 29, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER:
+
+There is a man in Company I, Eleventh Connecticut Volunteers, First
+Brigade, Third Division, Twenty-fourth Army Corps, at Chapin's Farm,
+Va.; under the assumed name of William Stanley, but whose real name
+is Frank R. Judd, and who is under arrest, and probably about to be
+tried for desertion. He is the son of our present minister to
+Prussia, who is a close personal friend of Senator Trumbull and
+myself. We are not willing for the boy to be shot, but we think it
+as well that his trial go regularly on, suspending execution until
+further order from me and reporting to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COLONEL WARNER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 30, 1864.
+
+COLONEL WARNER, Indianapolis, Ind.:
+
+It is said that you were on the court-martial that tried John Lennon,
+and that you are disposed to advise his being pardoned and sent to
+his regiment. If this be true, telegraph me to that effect at once.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. WILLIAMS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 4, 1865.
+
+JOHN WILLIAMS, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+Let Trumbo's substitute be regularly mustered in, send me the
+evidence that it is done and I will then discharge Trumbo.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
+
+WASHINGTON, January 5, 1865.
+
+TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 5, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Richard T. Jacob, Lieutenant-Governor of Kentucky, is at the
+Spotswood House, in Richmond, under an order of General Burbridge not
+to return to Kentucky. Please communicate leave to him to pass our
+lines, and come to me here at Washington.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, January 6, 1865, LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point:
+
+If there is a man at City Point by the name of Waterman Thornton who
+is in trouble about desertion, please have his case briefly stated to
+me and do not let him be executed meantime.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+WASHINGTON, January 9, 1865.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES: 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 twentieth
+of May, 1863, and twentieth of July, 1863, respectively, the
+ratifications of which were exchanged at Brussels on the
+twenty-fourth 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SCHUYLER COLFAX.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 9, 1865.
+
+HON. SCHUYLER COLFAX,
+Speaker of the House of Representatives.
+
+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 Col.
+Thomas M. Key of an interview between himself and General Howell Cobb
+on the fourteenth [15th] day of June, 1862, on the banks of the
+Chickahominy, on the subject of the exchange of prisoners of war."
+
+I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING COMMERCE,
+JANUARY 10, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+Whereas the act of Congress of the twenty-eighth 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 third 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;"
+
+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 third of March, 1845, aforesaid, from and
+after the date of this proclamation.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this tenth day of January, in the
+year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred-and sixty-five, and of
+the independence of the United States of America the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL B. F. BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 10, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+No principal report of yours on the Wilmington expedition has ever
+reached the War Department, as I am informed there. A preliminary
+report did reach here, but was returned to General Grant at his
+request. Of course, leave to publish cannot be given without
+inspection of the paper, and not then if it should be deemed to be
+detrimental to the public service.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL B. F. BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 13, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Yours asking leave to come to Washington is received. You have been
+summoned by the Committee on the Conduct of the War to attend here,
+which, of course, you will do.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 15, 1865.
+
+GOVERNOR JOHNSON, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Yours announcing ordinance of emancipation received. Thanks to the
+convention and to you. When do you expect to be here? Would be glad
+to have your suggestion as to supplying your place of military
+governor.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. M. DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 15, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL DODGE, St. Louis, Missouri:
+
+It is represented to me that there is so much irregular violence in
+northern Missouri as to be driving away the people and almost
+depopulating it. Please gather information, and consider whether an
+appeal to the people there to go to their homes and let one another
+alone recognizing as a full right of protection for each that he lets
+others alone, and banning only him who refuses to let others alone
+may not enable you to withdraw the troops, their presence itself
+[being] a cause of irritation and constant apprehension, and thus
+restore peace and quiet, and returning prosperity. Please consider
+this and telegraph or write me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FIRST OVERTURES FOR SURRENDER FROM DAVIS
+
+TO P. P. BLAIR, SR.
+
+WASHINGTON, January 18, 1865.
+
+F. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+
+SIR:-You having shown me Mr. Davis's letter to you of the twelfth
+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.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, January 19, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Please read and answer this letter as though I was not President, but
+only a friend. My son, now in his twenty-second year, having
+graduated at Harvard, wishes to see something of the war before it
+ends. I do not wish to put him in the ranks, nor yet to give him a
+commission, to which those who have already served long are better
+entitled and better qualified to hold. Could he, without
+embarrassment to you, or detriment to the service, go into your
+military family with some nominal rank, I, and not the public,
+furnishing his necessary means? If no, say so without the least
+hesitation, because I am as anxious and as deeply interested that you
+shall not be encumbered as you can be yourself.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 19, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL DODGE, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+If Mrs. Beattie, alias Mrs. Wolff, shall be sentenced to death,
+notify me, and postpone the execution till further order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ORD.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 19, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD:
+
+You have a man in arrest for desertion passing by the name of
+Stanley. William Stanley, I think, but whose real name is different.
+He is the son of so close a friend of mine that I must not let him be
+executed. Please let me know what is his present and prospective
+condition.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. M. DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 24, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL DODGE, St. Louis, Mo.:
+
+It is said an old lady in Clay County, Missouri, by name Mrs.
+Winifred B. Price, is about being sent South. If she is not
+misbehaving let her remain.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 24, 1865.
+
+HON. ANDREW JOHNSON, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Several members of the Cabinet, with myself, considered the question,
+to-day, as to the time of your coming on here. While we fully
+appreciate your wish to remain in Tennessee until her State
+government shall be completely reinaugurated, it is our unanimous
+conclusion that it is unsafe for you to not be here on the 4th of
+March. Be sure to reach here by that time.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE, JANUARY 24, 1865.
+
+REVEREND SIR, AND LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:
+
+I accept with emotions of profoundest gratitude, the beautiful gift
+you have been pleased to present to me. You will, of course, expect
+that I acknowledge it. So much has been said about Gettysburg and so
+well, that for me to attempt to say more may perhaps only serve to
+weaken the force of that which has already been said. A most
+graceful and eloquent tribute was paid to the patriotism and
+self-denying labors of the American ladies, on the occasion of the
+consecration of the National Cemetery at Gettysburg, by our
+illustrious friend, Edward Everett, now, alas! departed from earth.
+His life was a truly great one, and I think the greatest part of it
+was that which crowned its closing years, I wish you to read, if you
+have not already done so, the eloquent and truthful words which he
+then spoke of the women of America. Truly, the services they have
+rendered to the defenders of our country in this perilous time, and
+are yet rendering, can never be estimated as they ought to be. For
+your kind wishes to me personally, I beg leave to render you likewise
+my sincerest thanks. I assure you they are reciprocated. And now,
+gentlemen and ladies, may God bless you all.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 25, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point
+
+If Newell W. Root, of First Connecticut Heavy Artillery, is under
+sentence of death, please telegraph me briefly the circumstances.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 25, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Having received the report in the case of Newell W. Root, I do not
+interfere further in the case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EARLY CONSULTATIONS WITH REBELS
+
+INSTRUCTIONS TO MAJOR ECKERT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 30, 1865.
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT.
+
+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.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM SECRETARY OF WAR TO GENERAL ORD.
+(Cipher.)
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., January 30, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD, Headquarters Army of the James:
+
+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.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON A LETTER FROM J. M. ASHLEY.
+
+HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
+January 31, 1865.
+
+DEAR SIR:--The report is in circulation in the House that Peace
+Commissioners are on their way or in the city, and is being used
+against us. If it is true, I fear we shall lose the bill. Please
+authorize me to contradict it, if it is not true.
+
+Respectfully,
+J. M. ASHLEY.
+
+To the President.
+
+
+(Indorsement.)
+
+So far as I know there are no Peace Commissioners in the city or
+likely to be in it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+January 31, 1865
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 31, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+A messenger is coming to you on the business contained in your
+despatch. 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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INSTRUCTIONS TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+January 31, 1865.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State
+
+You will proceed to Fortress Monroe, Virginia, 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. You will make known to them that three
+things are indispensable to wit:
+
+1. The restoration of the national authority throughout all the
+States.
+
+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.
+
+3. No cessation of hostilities short of an end of the war and the
+disbanding of all forces hostile to the Government.
+
+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. You will not assume to definitely
+consummate anything.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PASSAGE THROUGH CONGRESS OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT FOR THE
+ABOLISHING OF SLAVERY
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE, JANUARY 31, 1865.
+
+He supposed the passage through Congress of the Constitutional
+amendment for the abolishing of slavery throughout the United States
+was the occasion to which he was indebted for the honor of this call.
+
+The occasion was one of congratulation to the country, and to the
+whole world. But there is a task yet before us--to go forward and
+consummate by the votes of the States that which Congress so nobly
+began yesterday. He had the honor to inform those present that
+Illinois had already done the work. Maryland was about half through,
+but he felt proud that Illinois was a little ahead.
+
+He thought this measure was a very fitting if not an indispensable
+adjunct to the winding up of the great difficulty. He wished the
+reunion of all the States perfected, and so effected as to remove all
+causes of disturbance in the future; and, to attain this end, it was
+necessary that the original disturbing cause should, if possible, be
+rooted out. He thought all would bear him witness that he had never
+shirked from doing all that he could to eradicate slavery, by issuing
+an Emancipation Proclamation. But that proclamation falls short of
+what the amendment will be when fully consummated. A question might
+be raised whether the proclamation was legally valid. It might be
+added, that it only aided those who came into our lines, and that it
+was inoperative as to those who did not give themselves up; or that
+it would have no effect upon the children of the slaves born
+hereafter; in fact, it would be urged that it did not meet the evil.
+But this amendment is a king's cure for all evils. It winds the
+whole thing up. He would repeat, that it was the fitting if not the
+indispensable adjunct to the consummation of the great game we are
+playing. He could not but congratulate all present--himself, the
+country, and the whole world upon this great moral victory.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, February 1, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point:
+
+Let nothing which is transpiring change, hinder, or delay your
+military movements or plans.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MAJOR ECKERT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 1, 1865.
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT,
+Care of General Grant, City Point, Va.:
+
+Call at Fortress Monroe, and put yourself under direction of Mr.
+Seward, whom you will find there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Say to the gentlemen I will meet them personally at Fortress Monroe
+as soon as I can get there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Fortress Monroe, Va.
+
+Induced by a despatch of General Grant, I join you at Fort Monroe, as
+soon as I can come.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER TO MAKE CORRECTIONS IN THE DRAFT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON CITY, February 6, 1865
+
+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: Now, in order to determine all
+controversies in respect thereto, and to avoid any delay in
+filling up the armies, it is ordered,
+
+1. 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.
+
+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
+fifteenth of this month.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 6, 1865.
+
+PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL:
+
+These gentlemen distinctly say to me this morning that what they want
+is the means from your office of showing their people that the quota
+assigned to them is right. They think it will take but little time
+--two hours, they say. Please give there double the time and every
+facility you can.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+February 6, 1865.
+
+The Provost-Marshal brings this letter back to me and says he cannot
+give the facility required without detriment to the service, and
+thereupon he is excused from doing it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO LIEUTENANT-COLONEL GLENN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 7, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-COLONEL GLENN,
+Commanding Post at Henderson, Ky.:
+
+Complaint is made to me that you are forcing negroes into the
+military service, and even torturing them--riding them on rails and
+the like to extort their consent. I hope this may be a mistake. The
+like must not be done by you, or any one under you. You must not
+force negroes any more than white men. Answer me on this.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR SMITH.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 8, 1865.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY GOVERNOR SMITH, of Vermont:
+
+Complaint is made to me, by Vermont, that the assignment of her quota
+for the draft on the pending call is intrinsically unjust, and also
+in bad faith of the Government's promise to fairly allow credits for
+men previously furnished. To illustrate, a supposed case is stated
+as follows:
+
+Vermont and New Hampshire must between them furnish six thousand men
+on the pending call; and being equal, each must furnish as many as
+the other in the long run. But the Government finds that on former
+calls Vermont furnished a surplus of five hundred, and New Hampshire
+a surplus, of fifteen hundred. These two surpluses making two
+thousand and added to the six thousand, making eight thousand to be
+furnished by the two States, or four thousand each less, by fair
+credits. Then subtract Vermont's surplus of five hundred from her
+four thousand, leaves three thousand five hundred as her quota on the
+pending call; and likewise subtract New Hampshire's surplus of
+fifteen hundred from her four thousand, leaves two thousand five
+hundred as her quota on the pending call. These three thousand five
+hundred and two thousand five hundred make precisely six thousand,
+which the supposed case requires from the two States, and it is just
+equal for Vermont to furnish one thousand more now than New
+Hampshire, because New Hampshire has heretofore furnished one
+thousand more than Vermont, which equalizes the burdens of the two in
+the long run. And this result, so far from being bad faith to
+Vermont, is indispensable to keeping good faith with New Hampshire.
+By no other result can the six thousand men be obtained from the two
+States, and, at the same time deal justly and keep faith with both,
+and we do but confuse ourselves in questioning the process by which
+the right result is reached. The supposed case is perfect as an
+illustration.
+
+The pending call is not for three hundred thousand men subject to
+fair credits, but is for three hundred thousand remaining after all
+fair credits have been deducted, and it is impossible to concede what
+Vermont asks without coming out short of three hundred thousand men,
+or making other localities pay for the partiality shown her.
+
+This upon the case stated. If there be different reasons for making
+an allowance to Vermont, let them be presented and considered.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 8, 1865.
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 8, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point. Va.:
+
+I am called on by the House of Representatives to give an account of
+my interview with Messrs. Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell, and it is
+very desirable to me to put your despatch of February 1, to the
+Secretary of War, in which, among other things, you say: "I fear now
+their going back without any expression from any one in authority
+will have a bad influence." I think the despatch does you credit,
+while I do not see that it can embarrass you. May I use it?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE OF CONGRESS, REPORTING
+THE RESULT OF THE ELECTORAL COUNT,
+
+FEBRUARY 9, 1865.
+
+With deep gratitude to my countrymen for this mark of their
+confidence; with a distrust of my own ability to perform the duty
+required under the most favorable circumstances, and now rendered
+doubly difficult by existing national perils; yet with a firm
+reliance on the strength of our free government, and the eventual
+loyalty of the people to the just principles upon which it is
+founded, and above all with an unshaken faith in the Supreme Ruler of
+nations, I accept this trust. Be pleased to signify this to the
+respective Houses of Congress.
+
+
+
+
+CHRONOLOGIC REVIEW OF PEACE PROPOSALS
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 10, 1865
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+In response to your resolution of the eighth 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:
+
+December 28, 1864.
+
+Allow the bearer, F. P. Blair, Sr., to pass our lines, go South, and
+return.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+RICHMOND, VA., January 12, 1865.
+F. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+
+SIR: I have deemed it proper, and probably desirable to you, to give
+you in this for in the substance of remarks made by me, to be
+repeated by you to President Lincoln, etc., etc.
+
+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.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+JEFFERSON DAVIS.
+
+
+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:
+
+
+WASHINGTON, January 18, 1865.
+
+P. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+
+SIR:--Your having shown me Mr. Davis's letter to you of the twelfth
+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.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+January 28, 1865
+
+To-day Mr. Blair tells me that on the twenty-first 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' letter about "the two countries,"
+to which Mr. Davis replied that he so understood it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards the Secretary of War placed in my hands the following
+telegram, indorsed by him, as appears:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH WAR DEPARTMENT.
+The following telegram received at Washington January 29, 1865, from
+headquarters Army of James,
+
+6.30 P.M., January 29, 1865:
+
+"HON. EDWIN M. STANTON," Secretary of War:
+
+"The following despatch 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:
+
+"E. O. C. ORD, Major-General, Commanding.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF POTOMAC,
+January 29, 1863. 4 P.M."
+
+'MAJOR-GENERAL E. O. C. ORD,
+'Headquarters Army of James:
+'The following despatch 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.
+'JNO. G. PARKE, Major-General, Commanding.'
+
+
+"'FROM HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY Cos, 29th.
+'MAJOR-GENERAL JNO. G. PARKE, 'Headquarters Army of Potomac:
+'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. to-morrow morning.
+'O. B. WILCOX,
+'Major-General, Commanding Ninth Corps.'
+
+
+"January 29, 8.30 P.M.
+"Respectfully referred to the President for such instructions as he
+may be pleased to give.
+"EDWIN M. STANTON, "Secretary of War."
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, January 29, 1865. 10 P.M.
+(Sent at 2 A.M., 30th.)
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD.
+
+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 telegraph will be
+submitted for his directions.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards, by my direction, the Secretary of War telegraphed General
+Ord as follows, to wit:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D.C., January 30. 10.30 A.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL E. O. C. ORD,
+Headquarters Army of the James.
+
+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.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards I prepared and put into the hands of Major Thomas T.
+Eckert the following instructions and message:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT. WASHINGTON, January 30, 1865
+
+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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+CITY POINT, VA.. February 1, 1865.
+
+MESSRS. ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS, J. A. CAMPBELL AND
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+
+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.
+
+THOMAS T. ECKERT,
+Major and Aide-de-Camp.
+
+
+
+
+WASHINGTON, January 18, 1865.
+F. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+
+SIR:--Your having shown me Mr. Davis's letter to you of the twelfth
+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.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards, but before Major Eckert had departed, the following
+dispatch was received from General Grant:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+
+The following telegram received at Washington January 30, 1865, from
+City Point, Va., 10.30 A.M., January 30, 1865:
+
+"His EXCELLENCY ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+President of the United States:
+
+"The following communication was received here last evening:
+
+"'PETERSBURG, VA., January 30, 1865.
+'LIEUTENANT-GENERAL U.S. GRANT,
+Commanding Armies United States.
+'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.
+'Very respectfully, yours,
+'ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS.
+'J. A. CAMPBELL.
+'R. M. T. HUNTER.'"
+
+
+"I have sent directions to receive these gentlemen, and expect to
+have them at my quarters this evening, awaiting your instructions.
+U.S. GRANT,
+Lieutenant-General, Commanding
+Armies United States."
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, January 13, 1865
+(Sent at 1.30 P.M.)
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+A messenger is coming to you on the business contained in your
+despatch. 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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+When Major Eckert departed, he bore with him a letter of the
+Secretary of War to General Grant, as follows, to wit:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 30, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, Commanding, etc.
+
+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.
+
+By order of the President:
+EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 31, 1865.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State:
+
+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.
+
+You will make known to them that three things are indispensable, to
+Wit:
+
+1. The restoration of the national authority throughout all the
+States.
+
+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.
+
+3. No cessation of hostilities short of an end of the war and the
+disbanding of all forces hostile to the Government.
+
+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.
+
+You will not assume to definitely consummate anything.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+On the day of its date the following telegram was sent to General
+Grant:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 1,1865
+(Sent at 9.30 A.M.)
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Let nothing which is transpiring change, hinder, or delay your
+military movements or plans.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards the following despatch was received from General Grant:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+The following telegram received at Washington, 2.30 P.M., February 1,
+1865, from City Point, Va., February 1, 12.30 PM., 1865:
+
+"His EXCELLENCY A. LINCOLN, President United States:
+
+"Your despatch 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.
+
+"U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant-General."
+
+
+
+
+To notify Major Eckert that the Secretary of State would be at
+Fortress Monroe, and to put them in communication, the following
+despatch was sent:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 1, 1865.
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT,
+Care of General Grant, City Point, Va.:
+
+Call at Fortress Monroe and put yourself under direction of Mr. S.,
+whom you will find there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+On the morning of the 2d instant the following telegrams were
+received by me respectively from the Secretary of State and Major
+Eckert:
+
+FORT MONROE, VA.,
+February 1,1865. 11.30 PM.
+
+THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+Arrived at 10 this evening. Richmond party not here. I remain here.
+
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
+
+
+
+CITY POINT, VA.,
+February 1, 1865. 10 P.M.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY A. LINCOLN, President of the United States:
+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.
+
+
+
+
+At 8 P.M. the following note, addressed to General Grant, was
+received:
+
+CITY POINT, VA.,
+February 1, 1865
+
+"LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT.
+
+"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.
+
+Very respectfully yours,
+
+ALEX. H. STEPHENS
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+J. A. CAMPBELL."
+
+
+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
+to-morrow unless otherwise ordered.
+
+THOS. T. ECKERT, Major, etc.
+
+
+
+
+On reading this despatch 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:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+
+The following telegram received at Washington
+4.35 A.M., February 2, 1865, from City Point, Va., February 1, 10.30
+P.M., 1865:
+
+"HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, "Secretary of War:
+
+"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 despatch, 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.
+
+"U.S. GRANT
+"Lieutenant-General,"
+
+
+
+
+This despatch of General Grant changed my purpose, and accordingly I
+telegraphed him and the Secretary of State, respectively, as follows:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865. (Sent at 9 A.M.)
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Say to the gentlemen I will meet them personally at Fortress Monroe
+as soon as I can get there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865. (Sent at 9 A.M.)
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Fortress Monroe, Va.:
+
+Induced by a despatch from General Grant, I join you at Fort Monroe
+as soon as I can come.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Before starting, the following despatch was shown me. I proceeded,
+nevertheless:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+The following telegram received at Washington, February 2, 1865, from
+City Point, Va., 9 A.M., February 2, 1865:
+
+"HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State, Fort Monroe:
+
+"The gentlemen here have accepted the proposed terms, and will leave
+for Fort Monroe at 9.30 A.M.
+
+"U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant-General."
+
+(Copy to HON. Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War, Washington.)
+
+
+
+
+On the night of the 2nd 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 despatch to me of the 1st he characterizes as "not satisfactory."
+That answer is as follows, to wit:
+
+CITY POINT, VA., February 1, 1865.
+THOMAS T. ECKERT, Major and Aid-de-Camp.
+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. Our instructions are contained in a letter of which the
+following is a copy:
+
+"RICHMOND, January 28, 1865.
+"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.
+"With great respect, your obedient servant,
+"JEFFERSON DAVIS."
+
+
+The substantial object to be obtained by the informal conference is
+to ascertain upon what terms the existing war can be terminated
+honorably.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Very respectfully, yours,
+ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS.
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+JOHN A. CAMPBELL.
+
+
+
+
+A note of these gentlemen, subsequently addressed to General Grant,
+has already been given in Major Eckert's despatch of the 1st instant.
+
+I also here saw, for the first time, the following note, addressed by
+the Richmond gentlemen to Major Eckert:
+
+CITY POINT, VA., February 2, 1865.
+THOMAS T. ECKERT, Major and Aid-de-Camp.
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Very respectfully, yours, etc.,
+
+ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS,
+J. A. CAMPBELL,
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+
+
+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.
+
+THOMAS T. ECKERT
+Major and Aid-de-Camp.
+
+
+
+
+On the morning of the third 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 ever would consent to reunion, and yet they
+equally omitted to declare that they never would 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.
+
+The foregoing, containing, as is believed, all the information sought
+is respectfully submitted.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE SENATE.
+
+WASHINGTON, February 10, 1865
+
+To THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the eighth 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO THE PRESIDENT:
+
+The Secretary of State, to whom was referred a resolution of the
+Senate of the 8th instant, requesting "the President of the United
+States, if, in his opinion, not incompatible with the public
+interests, to furnish to the Senate any information in his possession
+concerning recent conversations or communications with certain
+rebels, said to have taken place under executive sanction, including
+communications with the rebel Jefferson Davis, and any correspondence
+relating thereto," has the honor to report that the Senate may
+properly be referred to a special message of the President bearing
+upon the subject of the resolution, and transmitted to the House this
+day. Appended to this report is a copy of an instruction which has
+been addressed to Charles Francis Adams, Esq., envoy extraordinary
+and minister plenipotentiary of the United States at London, and
+which is the only correspondence found in this department touching
+the subject referred to in the resolution.
+
+Respectfully submitted,
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
+DEPARTMENT OF STATE, WASHINGTON, February 10, 1865.
+
+
+
+
+MR. SEWARD TO MR. ADAMS.
+(Extract.)
+No. 1258.
+
+DEPARTMENT OF STATE, WASHINGTON, February 7,1865
+
+On the morning of the 3d, the President, attended by the Secretary,
+received Messrs. Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell on board the United
+States steam transport River Queen in Hampton Roads. The conference
+was altogether informal. There was no attendance of secretaries,
+clerks, or other witnesses. Nothing was written or read. The
+conversation, although earnest and free, was calm, and courteous, and
+kind on both sides. The Richmond party approached the discussion
+rather indirectly, and at no time did they either make categorical
+demands, or tender formal stipulations or absolute refusals.
+Nevertheless, during the conference, which lasted four hours, the
+several points at issue between the Government and the insurgents
+were distinctly raised, and discussed fully, intelligently, and in an
+amicable spirit. What the insurgent party seemed chiefly to favor
+was a postponement of the question of separation, upon which the war
+is waged, and a mutual direction of efforts of the Government, as
+well as those of the insurgents, to some extrinsic policy or scheme
+for a season during which passions might be expected to subside, and
+the armies be reduced, and trade and intercourse between the people
+of both sections resumed. It was suggested by them that through such
+postponement we might now have immediate peace, with some not very
+certain prospect of an ultimate satisfactory adjustment of political
+relations between this Government and the States, section, or people
+now engaged in conflict with it.
+
+This suggestion, though deliberately considered, was nevertheless
+regarded by the President as one of armistice or truce, and he
+announced that we can agree to no cessation or suspension of
+hostilities, except on the basis of the disbandment of the insurgent
+forces, and the restoration of the national authority throughout all
+the States in the Union. Collaterally, and in subordination to the
+proposition which was thus announced, the antislavery policy of the
+United States was reviewed in all its bearings, and the President
+announced that he must not be expected to depart from the positions
+he had heretofore assumed in his proclamation of emancipation and
+other documents, as these positions were reiterated in his last
+annual message. It was further declared by the President that the
+complete restoration of the national authority was an indispensable
+condition of any assent on our part to whatever form of peace might
+be proposed. The President assured the other party that, while he
+must adhere to these positions, he would be prepared, so far as power
+is lodged with the Executive, to exercise liberality. His power,
+however, is limited by the Constitution; and when peace should be
+made, Congress must necessarily act in regard to appropriations
+of money and to the admission of representatives from the
+insurrectionary States. The Richmond party were then informed that
+Congress had, on the 31st ultimo, adopted by a constitutional
+majority a joint resolution submitting to the several States the
+proposition to abolish slavery throughout the Union, and that there
+is every reason to expect that it will be soon accepted by three
+fourths of the States, so as to become a part of the national organic
+law.
+
+The conference came to an end by mutual acquiescence, without
+producing an agreement of views upon the several matters discussed,
+or any of them. Nevertheless, it is perhaps of some importance that
+we have been able to submit our opinions and views directly to
+prominent insurgents, and to hear them in answer in a courteous and
+not unfriendly manner.
+
+I am, sir, your obedient servant,
+
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
+
+
+
+
+TO ADMIRAL DAVID D. PORTER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 10, 1865
+
+REAR-ADMIRAL DAVID D. PORTER,
+Commanding North Atlantic Squadron, Hampton Roads, Va.
+
+SIR:--It is made my agreeable duty to enclose herewith the joint
+resolution approved 24th January, 1865, tendering the thanks of
+Congress to yourself, the officers and men under your command for
+their gallantry and good conduct in the capture of Fort Fisher, and
+through you to all who participated in that brilliant and decisive
+victory under your command.
+
+Very respectfully,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL S. POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 12, 1865
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St. Louis, Missouri:
+
+I understand that provost-marshals in different parts of Missouri are
+assuming to decide that the conditions of bonds are forfeited, and
+therefore are seizing and selling property to pay damages. This, if
+true, is both outrageous and ridiculous.  Do not allow it. The
+courts, and not provost-marshals, are to decide such questions unless
+when military necessity makes an exception. Also excuse John Eaton,
+of Clay County, and Wesley Martin, of Platte, from being sent South,
+and let them go East if anywhere.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+
+
+TO THE COMMANDING OFFICERS IN WEST TENNESSEE
+
+WASHINGTON,
+February 13, 1865.
+
+TO THE MILITARY OFFICERS COMMANDING IN WEST
+TENNESSEE:
+
+While I cannot 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.
+
+Of your military necessities you must judge and execute, but please
+do so in the spirit and with the purpose above indicated.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL J. POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 14, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St. Louis, Missouri:
+
+Yours of yesterday about provost-marshal system received. As part of
+the same subject, let me say I am now pressed in regard to a pending
+assessment in St. Louis County. Please examine and satisfy yourself
+whether this assessment should proceed or be abandoned; and if you
+decide that it is to proceed, please examine as to the propriety of
+its application to a gentleman by the name of Charles McLaran.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON February 15, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St. Louis, Missouri:
+
+Please ascertain whether General Fisk's administration is as good as
+it might be, and answer me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONVENING THE SENATE IN EXTRA SESSION,
+
+FEBRUARY 17, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation
+
+Whereas objects of interest to the United States require that the
+Senate should be convened at twelve o'clock on the fourth of March
+next to receive and act upon such communications as may be made to it
+on the part of the Executive;
+
+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 fourth day of March next,
+at twelve 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.
+
+Given under my hand and the seal of the United States, at
+Washington...............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT HARPER'S FERRY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 17, 1865
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND AT HARPER'S FERRY:
+
+Chaplain Fitzgibbon yesterday sent me a despatch invoking Clemency
+for Jackson, Stewart, and Randall, who are to be shot to-day. The
+despatch is so vague that there is no means here of ascertaining
+whether or not the execution of sentence of one or more of them may
+not already have been ordered. If not suspend execution of sentence
+m their cases until further orders and forward records of trials for
+examination.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+MAJOR ECKERT:
+Please send above telegram
+JNO. G. NICOLAY.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 24, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Virginia:
+
+I am in a little perplexity. I was induced to authorize a gentleman
+to bring Roger A. Pryor here with a view of effecting an exchange of
+him; but since then I have seen a despatch of yours showing that you
+specially object to his exchange. Meantime he has reached here and
+reported to me. It is an ungracious thing for me to send him back to
+prison, and yet inadmissible for him to remain here long. Cannot
+you help me out with it? I can conceive that there may be difference
+to you in days, and I can keep him a few days to accommodate on that
+point. I have not heard of my son's reaching you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 24, 1865
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+Please inquire and report to me whether there is any propriety of
+longer keeping in Gratiott Street Prison a man said to be there by
+the name of Riley Whiting.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, February 25, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Virginia:
+
+General Sheridan's despatch to you, of to-day, in which he says he
+"will be off on Monday," and that he "will leave behind about two
+thousand men," causes the Secretary of War and myself considerable
+anxiety.  Have you well considered whether you do not again leave
+open the Shenandoah Valley entrance to Maryland and Pennsylvania, or,
+at least, to the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 27, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Virginia:
+
+Subsequent reflection, conference with General Halleck, your
+despatch, and one from General Sheridan, have relieved my anxiety;
+and so I beg that you will dismiss any concern you may have on my
+account, in the matter of my last despatch.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO T. W. CONWAY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 1, 1865.
+
+MR. THOMAS W. CONWAY,
+General Superintendent Freedmen,
+Department of the Gulf.
+
+SIR:--Your statement to Major-General Hurlbut of the condition of the
+freedmen of your department, and of your success in the work of their
+moral and physical elevation, has reached me and given me much
+pleasure.
+
+That we shall be entirely successful in our efforts I firmly believe.
+
+The blessing of God and the efforts of good and faithful men will
+bring us an earlier and happier consummation than the most sanguine
+friends of the freedmen could reasonably expect.
+
+Yours,
+
+A. LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 2, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+You have not sent contents of Richmond papers for Tuesday or
+Wednesday. Did you not receive them? If not, does it indicate
+anything?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM SECRETARY STANTON
+TO GENERAL GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, March 3, 1865. 12 PM.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+The President directs me to say to you that he wishes you to have no
+conference with General Lee unless it be for the capitulation of
+General Lee's army, or on some minor and purely military matter. He
+instructs me to say that you are not to decide, discuss, or confer
+upon any political question. Such questions the President holds in
+his own hands, and will submit them to no military conferences or
+conventions. Meantime you are to press to the utmost your military
+advantages.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+
+SECOND INAUGURAL ADDRESS,
+
+MARCH 4, 1865.
+
+
+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.
+
+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 saving the Union
+without war, insurgent agents were in the city seeking to destroy it
+without war seeking to dissolve the Union and divide effects by
+negotiation. Both parties deprecated war, but one of them would make
+war rather than let the nation survive, and the other would accept
+war rather than let it perish, and the war came.
+
+One eighth of the whole population was 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 cause 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."
+
+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.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL JOHN POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 7, 1865
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St. Louis, Missouri:
+
+Please state briefly, by telegraph, what you concluded about the
+assessments in St. Louis County. Early in the war one Samuel B.
+Churchill was sent from St. Louis to Louisville, where I have quite
+satisfactory evidence that he has not misbehaved. Still I am told
+his property at St. Louis is subjected to the assessment, which I
+think it ought not to be. Still I wish to know what you think.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 8, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va:
+
+Your two despatches to the Secretary of War, one relating to supplies
+for the enemy going by the Blackwater, and the other to General
+Singleton and Judge Hughes, have been laid before me by him. As to
+Singleton and Hughes, I think they are not in Richmond by any
+authority, unless it be from you. I remember nothing from me which
+could aid them in getting there, except a letter to you, as follows,
+to wit:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON CITY, February 7, 1865.
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+General Singleton, who bears you this, claims that he already has
+arrangements made, if you consent, to bring a large amount of
+Southern produce through your lines. For its bearing on our
+finances, I would be glad for this to be done, if it can be, without
+injuriously disturbing your military operations, or supplying the
+enemy. I wish you to be judge and master on these points. Please
+see and hear him fully, and decide whether anything, and, if
+anything, what, can be done in the premises.
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+I believe I gave Hughes a card putting him with Singleton on the same
+letter. However this may be, I now authorize you to get Singleton
+and Hughes away from Richmond, if you choose, and can. I also
+authorize you, by an order, or in what form you choose, to suspend
+all operations on the Treasury trade permits, in all places
+southeastward of the Alleghenies. If you make such order, notify me
+of it, giving a copy, so that I can give corresponding direction to
+the Navy.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OFFERING PARDON TO DESERTERS,
+
+MARCH 11, 1865
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
+OF AMERICA
+
+A Proclamation
+
+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 citizenship and their
+right 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 they are 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:
+
+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 or companies or to such other organization 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.
+
+In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed...............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO H. T. BLOW.
+
+WASHINGTON, March 13, 1865.
+
+HON. HENRY T. BLOW, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+A Miss E. Snodgrass, who was banished from Saint Louis in May,1863,
+wishes to take the oath and return home. What say you?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LETTER TO THURLOW WEED,
+
+MARCH 15, 1865.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C.
+
+DEAR Mr. WEED:
+
+Every one likes a compliment. Thank you for yours on my little
+notification speech and on the recent inaugural address. I expect
+the latter to wear as well as perhaps better than--anything I have
+produced; but I believe it is not immediately popular. Men are not
+flattered by being shown that there has been a difference of purpose
+between the Almighty and them. To deny it, however, in this case, is
+to deny that there is a God governing the world. It is a truth which
+I thought needed to be told, and, as whatever of humiliation there is
+in it falls most directly on myself, I thought others might afford
+for me to tell it.
+
+Truly yours,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COLONEL ROUGH AND OTHERS.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 17, 1865.
+
+COL. R. M. ROUGH AND OTHERS, Chicago, Ill.:
+
+Yours received. The best I can do with it is, to refer it to the War
+Department. The Rock Island case referred to, was my individual
+enterprise; and it caused so much difficulty in so many ways that I
+promised to never undertake another.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO AN INDIANA REGIMENT,
+
+MARCH 17, 1865.
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS:--It will be but a very few words that I shall
+undertake to say. I was born in Kentucky, raised in Indiana, and
+lived in Illinois; and now I am here, where it is my business to care
+equally for the good people of all the States. I am glad to see an
+Indiana regiment on this day able to present the captured flag to the
+Governor of Indiana.  I am not disposed, in saying this, to make a
+distinction between the States, for all have done equally well.
+
+There are but few views or aspects of this great war upon which I
+have not said or written something whereby my own opinions might be
+known. But there is one--the recent attempt of our erring brethren,
+as they are sometimes called, to employ the negro to fight for them.
+I have neither written nor made a speech on that subject, because
+that was their business, not mine, and if I had a wish on the
+subject, I had not the power to introduce it, or make it effective.
+The great question with them was whether the negro, being put into
+the army, will fight for them. I do not know, and therefore cannot
+decide. They ought to know better than me. I have in my lifetime
+heard many arguments why the negroes ought to be slaves; but if they
+fight for those who would keep them in slavery, it will be a better
+argument than any I have yet heard. He who will fight for that,
+ought to be a slave. They have concluded, at last, to take one out
+of four of the slaves and put them in the army, and that one out of
+the four who will fight to keep the others in slavery, ought to be a
+slave himself, unless he is killed in a fight.  While I have often
+said that all men ought to be free, yet would I allow those colored
+persons to be slaves who want to be, and next to them those white
+people who argue in favor of making other people slaves.  I am in
+favor of giving an appointment to such white men to try it on for
+these slaves. I will say one thing in regard to the negroes being
+employed to fight for them. I do know he cannot fight and stay at
+home and make bread too.  And as one is about as important as the
+other to them, I don't care which they do. I am rather in favor of
+having them try them as soldiers. They lack one vote of doing that,
+and I wish I could send my vote over the river so that I might cast
+it in favor of allowing the negro to fight. But they cannot fight
+and work both. We must now see the bottom of the enemy's resources.
+They will stand out as long as they can, and if the negro will fight
+for them they must allow him to fight. They have drawn upon their
+last branch of resources, and we can now see the bottom. I am glad
+to see the end so near at hand. I have said now more than I
+intended, and will therefore bid you good-by.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING INDIANS,
+
+MARCH 17, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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;
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed...................
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER ANNULLING THE SENTENCE AGAINST
+BENJAMIN G. SMITH AND FRANKLIN W. SMITH,
+
+MARCH 18, 1865.
+
+
+I am unwilling for the sentence to stand, and be executed, to any
+extent in this case. In the absence of a more adequate motive than
+the evidence discloses, I am wholly unable to believe in the
+existence of criminal or fraudulent intent on the part of men of such
+well established good character. If the evidence went as far to
+establish a guilty profit of one or two hundred thousand dollars, as
+it does of one or two hundred dollars, the case would, on the
+question of guilt, bear a far different aspect. That on this
+contract, involving some twelve hundred thousand dollars, the
+contractors would plan, and attempt to execute a fraud which, at the
+most, could profit them only one or two hundred, or even one thousand
+dollars, is to my mind beyond the power of rational belief. That
+they did not, in such a case, make far greater gains, proves that
+they did not, with guilty or fraudulent intent, make at all. The
+judgment and sentence are disapproved, and declared null, and the
+defendants are fully discharged.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+March 18, 1865.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL J. POPE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 19, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St. Louis, Missouri:
+
+Understanding that the plan of action for Missouri contained in your
+letter to the Governor of that State, and your other letter to me, is
+concurred in by the Governor, it is approved by me, and you will be
+sustained in proceeding upon it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ORD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May [March] 20, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD, Army of the James
+
+Is it true that George W. Lane is detained at Norfolk without any
+charge against him? And if so why is it done?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO JUDGE SCATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, March 21, 1865.
+
+HON. WALTER B. SCATES, Centralia, Illinois:
+
+If you choose to go to New Mexico and reside, I will appoint you
+chief justice there. What say you? Please answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. HANCOCK.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 22, 1865.
+MAJOR-GENERAL HANCOCK, Winchester, Va.:
+
+Seeing your despatch about General Crook, and fearing that through
+misapprehension something unpleasant may occur, I send you below two
+despatches of General Grant, which I suppose will fully explain
+General Crook's movements.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANOTHER FEMALE SPY
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 23, 1865.
+
+GENERAL DODGE,
+Commanding, &c, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+Allow Mrs. R. S. Ewell the benefit of my amnesty proclamation on her
+taking the oath.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, March 25, 1865. 8.30 A.M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D. C.:
+
+Arrived here all safe about 9 P.M. yesterday.  No war news. General
+Grant does not seem to know very much about Yeatman, but thinks very
+well of him so far as he does know.
+
+I like Mr. Whiting very much, and hence would wish him to remain or
+resign as best suits himself. Hearing this much from me, do as you
+think best in the matter. General Lee has sent the Russell letter
+back, concluding, as I understand from Grant, that their dignity does
+not admit of their receiving the document from us. Robert just now
+tells me there was a little rumpus up the line this morning, ending
+about where it began.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+(Cipher.)
+HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
+March 25, 1865. (Received 5 P.M.)
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+I am here within five miles of the scene of this morning's action. I
+have nothing to add to what General Meade reports except that I have
+seen the prisoners myself and they look like there might be the
+number he states--1600.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., March 26, 1865. (Received 11.30 A.M.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+I approve your Fort Sumter programme. Grant don't seem to know
+Yeatman very well, but thinks very well of him so far as he knows.
+Thinks it probable that Y. is here now, for the place. I told you
+this yesterday as well as that you should do as you think best about
+Mr. Whiting's resignation, but I suppose you did not receive the
+dispatch. I am on the boat and have no later war news than went to
+you last night.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, March 27, 1865.3.35 P.M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D.C.:
+
+Yours inclosing Fort Sumter order received. I think of but one
+suggestion. I feel quite confident that Sumter fell on the 13th, and
+not on the 14th of April, as you have it. It fell on Saturday, the
+13th; the first call for troops on our part was got up on Sunday, the
+14th, and given date and issued on Monday, the 15th. Look up the old
+almanac and other data, and see if I am not right.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, March 28, 1865. 12 M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D.C.:
+After your explanation, I think it is little or no difference whether
+the Fort Sumter ceremony takes place on the 13th or 14th.
+
+General Sherman tells me he is well acquainted with James Yeatman,
+and that he thinks him almost the best man in the country for
+anything he will undertake.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., March 30, 1865. 7.30 P.M.
+(Received 8.30 P.M.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+I begin to feel that I ought to be at home and yet I dislike to leave
+without seeing nearer to the end of General Grant's present movement.
+He has now been out since yesterday morning and although he has not
+been diverted from his programme no considerable effort has yet been
+produced so far as we know here. Last night at 10.15 P. M. when it
+was dark as a rainy night without a moon could be, a furious
+cannonade soon joined in by a heavy musketry fire opened near
+Petersburg and lasted about two hours. The sound was very distinct
+here as also were the flashes of the guns up the clouds. It seemed
+to me a great battle, but the older hands here scarcely noticed it
+and sure enough this morning it was found that very little had been
+done.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, March 31, 1865. 3 P.M.
+
+SECRETARY STANTON:
+
+At 12.30 P.M. to-day General Grant telegraphed me as follows:
+"There has been much hard fighting this morning. The enemy drove our
+left from near Dabney's house back well toward the Boydton plank
+road. We are now about to take the offensive at that point, and I
+hope will more than recover the lost ground."
+
+Later he telegraphed again as follows:
+"Our troops, after being driven back to the Boydton plank road,
+turned and drove the enemy in turn, and took the White Oak road,
+which we now have. This gives us the ground occupied by the enemy
+this morning. I will send you a rebel flag captured by our troops in
+driving the enemy back. There have been four flags captured to-day."
+
+Judging by the two points from which General Grant telegraphs, I
+infer that he moved his headquarters about one mile since he sent the
+first of the two despatches.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+CITY POINT, April 1, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Yours to Colonel Bowers about the Secretary of War is shown to me.
+He is not here, nor have I any notice that he is coming. I presume
+the mistake comes of the fact that the Secretary of State was here.
+He started back to Washington this morning. I have your two
+despatches of this morning, and am anxious to hear from Sheridan.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, April 1, 1865. 12.50 P.M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D.C.:
+
+I have had two despatches from General Grant since my last to you,
+but they contain little additional, except that Sheridan also had
+pretty hot work yesterday, that infantry was sent to his support
+during the night, and that he (Grant) has not since heard from
+Sheridan.
+
+Mrs. Lincoln has started home, and I will thank you to see that our
+coachman is at the Arsenal wharf at eight o'clock to-morrow morning,
+there to wait until she arrives.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+CITY POINT, VA., April, 1865. 5.30 ?.M.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Secretary of State, Fort Monroe:
+
+Despatch just received, showing that Sheridan, aided by Warren, had,
+at 2 P.M., pushed the enemy back, so as to retake the Five Forks and
+bring his own headquarters up to J. Boisseau's. The Five Forks were
+barricaded by the enemy and carried by Devin's division of cavalry.
+This part of the enemy seem to now be trying to work along the White
+Oak road, to join the main force in front of Grant, while Sheridan
+and Warren are pressing them as closely as possible.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+CITY POINT, April 1, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Yours showing Sheridan's success of to-day is just received and
+highly appreciated. Having no great deal to do here, I am still
+sending the substance of your despatches to the Secretary of War.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MRS. LINCOLN.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 2, 1865. 8.30 A.M. (Received 9 A.M.)
+
+MRS. A. LINCOLN, Executive Mansion:
+
+Last night General Grant telegraphed that General Sheridan with his
+cavalry and the Fifth Corps had captured three brigades of infantry,
+a train of wagons, and several batteries, prisoners amounting to
+several thousand. This morning General Grant having ordered an
+attack along the whole line telegraphs as follows.
+
+Robert yesterday wrote a little cheerful note to Captain Penrose,
+which is all he has heard of him since you left.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAMS TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 2, 1865. 8.30 A.M.
+
+HON. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+Last night General Grant telegraphed that General Sheridan, with his
+cavalry and the Fifth Corps, had captured three brigades of infantry,
+a train of wagons, and several batteries; the prisoners amounting to
+several thousand.
+
+This morning General Grant, having ordered an attack along the whole
+line, telegraphs as follows:
+
+"Both Wright and Parke got through the enemy's lines. The battle now
+rages furiously. General Sheridan, with his cavalry, the Fifth
+corps, and Miles's Division of the Second Corps, which was sent to
+him this morning, is now sweeping down from the west.
+
+"All now looks highly favorable. General Ord is engaged, but I have
+not yet heard the result in his front."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+CITY POINT, April 1. 11.00 A.M.
+
+Despatches are frequently coming in. All is going on finely.
+Generals Parke, Wright, and Ord's lines are extending from the
+Appomattox to Hatcher's Run. They have all broken through the
+enemy's intrenched lines, taking some forts, guns, and prisoners.
+Sheridan, with his own cavalry, the Fifth Corps, and part of the
+Second, is coming in from the west on the enemy's flank. Wright is
+already tearing up the Southside Railroad.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 2. 2 P.M.
+
+At 10.45 A.M. General Grant telegraphs as follows:
+
+"Everything has been carried from the left of the Ninth Corps. The
+Sixth Corps alone captured more than three thousand prisoners. The
+Second and Twenty-fourth Corps captured forts, guns, and prisoners
+from the enemy, but I cannot tell the numbers. We are now closing
+around the works of the line immediately enveloping Petersburg. All
+looks remarkably well. I have not yet heard from Sheridan. His
+headquarters have been moved up to Banks's house, near the Boydton
+road, about three miles southwest of Petersburg."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 2. 8.30 P.M.
+
+At 4.30 P.M. to-day General Grant telegraphs as follows:
+
+"We are now up and have a continuous line of troops, and in a few
+hours will be intrenched from the Appomattox below Petersburg to the
+river above. The whole captures since the army started out will not
+amount to less than twelve thousand men, and probably fifty pieces of
+artillery. I do not know the number of men and guns accurately,
+however. A portion of Foster's Division, Twenty Fourth Corps, made a
+most gallant charge this afternoon, and captured a very important
+fort from the enemy, with its entire garrison. All seems well with
+us, and everything is quiet just now."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MRS. LINCOLN.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 1, 1865.
+
+MRS. LINCOLN:
+
+At 4.30 P.M. to-day General Grant telegraphs that he has Petersburg
+completely enveloped from river below to river above, and has
+captured, since he started last Wednesday, about twelve thousand
+prisoners and fifty guns. He suggests that I shall go out and see
+him in the morning, which I think I will do. Tad and I are both
+well, and will be glad to see you and your party here at the time you
+name.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+CITY POINT, April 2, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Allow me to tender to you and all with you the nation's grateful
+thanks for this additional and magnificent success. At your kind
+suggestion I think I will meet you to-morrow.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 3, 1865.8.30 A.M.
+
+HON. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+This morning Lieutenant-General Grant reports Petersburg evacuated,
+and he is confident that Richmond also is.  He is pushing forward to
+cut off, if possible, the retreating rebel army.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 3, 1865. 5 P.M.
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+Yours received. Thanks for your caution, but I have already been to
+Petersburg. Staid with General Grant an hour and a half and returned
+here. It is certain now that Richmond is in our hands, and I think I
+will go there to-morrow. I will take care of myself.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 4, 1865
+(Received 8.45 A.M.)
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+General Weitzel telegraphs from Richmond that of railroad stock he
+found there twenty-eight locomotives, forty-four passenger and
+baggage cars, and one hundred and six freight cars. At 3.30 this
+evening General Grant, from Sutherland's Station, ten miles from
+Petersburg toward Burkevllle, telegraphs as follows:
+
+"General Sheridan picked up twelve hundred prisoners to-day, and from
+three hundred to five hundred more have been gathered by other
+troops. The majority of the arms that were left in the hands of the
+remnant of Lee's army are now scattered between Richmond and where
+his troops are. The country is also full of stragglers; the line of
+retreat marked with artillery, ammunition, burned or charred wagons,
+caissons, ambulances, etc."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+CITY POINT, APRIL 5, 1865.
+(Received 11.55 PM.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF STATE:
+
+Yours of to-day received. I think there is no probability of my
+remaining here more than two days longer. If that is too long come
+down. I passed last night at Richmond and have just returned.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES,
+CITY POINT, April 6, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, in the Field:
+
+Secretary Seward was thrown from his carriage yesterday and seriously
+injured. This, with other matters, will take me to Washington soon.
+I was at Richmond yesterday and the day before, when and where Judge
+Campbell, who was with Messrs. Hunter and Stephens in February,
+called on me, and made such representations as induced me to put in
+his hands an informal paper, repeating the propositions in my letter
+of instructions to Mr. Seward, which you remember, and adding that if
+the war be now further persisted in by the rebels, confiscated
+property shall at the least bear the additional cost, and that
+confiscation shall be remitted to the people of any State which will
+now promptly and in good faith withdraw its troops and other support
+from resistance to the Government.
+
+Judge Campbell thought it not impossible that the rebel legislature
+of Virginia would do the latter if permitted; and accordingly I
+addressed a private letter to General Weitzel, with permission to
+Judge Campbell to see it, telling him (General Weitzel) that if they
+attempt this, to permit and protect them, unless they attempt
+something hostile to the United States, in which case to give them
+notice and time to leave, and to arrest any remaining after such
+time.
+
+I do not think it very probable that anything win come of this, but I
+have thought best to notify you so that if you should see signs you
+may understand them.
+
+From your recent despatches it seems that you are pretty effectually
+withdrawing the Virginia troops from opposition to the Government.
+Nothing that I have done, or probably shall do, is to delay, hinder,
+or interfere with your work.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. WEITZEL.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES
+CITY POINT, April 6, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL WEITZEL, Richmond, Va.:
+
+It has been intimated to me that the gentlemen who have acted as the
+legislature of Virginia in support of the rebellion may now desire to
+assemble at Richmond and take measures to withdraw the Virginia
+troops and other support from resistance to the General Government.
+If they attempt it, give them permission and protection, until, if at
+all, they attempt some action hostile to the United States, in which
+case you will notify them, give them reasonable time to leave, and at
+the end of which time arrest any who remain. Allow Judge Campbell to
+see this, but do not make it public.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 7, 1865
+(Received 10.30 AM.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+At 11.15 P.M. yesterday at Burkesville Station, General Grant sends
+me the following from General Sheridan:
+
+"April 6, 11.15 P.M.
+"LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+I have the honor to report that the enemy made a stand at the
+intersection of the Burks Station road with the road upon which they
+were retreating. I attacked them with two divisions of the Sixth
+Army Corps and routed them handsomely, making a connection with the
+cavalry. I am still pressing on with both cavalry and infantry. Up
+to the present time we have captured Generals Ewell, Kershaw, Button,
+Corse, DeBare, and Custis Lee, several thousand prisoners, fourteen
+pieces of artillery with caissons and a large number of wagons.  If
+the thing is pressed I think Lee will surrender.
+"P. H. SHERIDAN,
+"Major-General, Commanding."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES,
+
+CITY POINT, April 7, 11 A.M., 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Gen. Sheridan says:
+
+"If the thing is pressed I think that Lee will surrender."
+
+Let the thing be pressed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+NOTE ON A CARD TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+April 10, 1865.
+
+Tad wants some flags--can he be accommodated?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A CALL,
+
+APRIL 10, 1865
+
+If the company had assembled by appointment, some mistake had crept
+in their understanding. He had appeared before a larger audience
+than this one to-day, and he would repeat what he then said, namely,
+he supposed owing to the great, good news, there would be some
+demonstration. He would prefer to-morrow evening, when he should be
+quite willing, and he hoped ready, to say something. He desired to
+be particular, because every thing he said got into print. Occupying
+the position he did, a mistake would produce harm, and therefore he
+wanted to be careful not to make a mistake.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. H. GORDON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 11, 1865.
+
+BRIG. GEN. G. H. GORDON, Norfolk, Va.:
+
+Send to me at once a full statement as to the cause or causes for
+which, and by authority of what tribunal George W. Lane, Charles
+Whitlock, Ezra Baler, J. M. Renshaw, and others are restrained of
+their liberty. Do this promptly and fully.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CLOSING CERTAIN PORTS,
+APRIL 11, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+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
+
+Whereas by the fourth 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," the
+President, for the reasons therein set forth, is authorized to close
+certain ports of entry:
+
+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 (Shieldsboro), 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 parts 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.
+
+In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of
+the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this eleventh day of April, A.D.,
+1865, and of the independence of the United States of America, the
+eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OPENING THE PORT OF KEY WEST,
+
+APRIL 11, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this eleventh day of April, A.D.
+1865, and of the independence of the United States of America the
+eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CLAIMING EQUALITY OF RIGHTS
+WITH ALL MARITIME NATIONS,
+
+APRIL 11, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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 community 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.......
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed..................
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+LAST PUBLIC ADDRESS,
+
+APRIL 11, 1865
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS--We meet this evening not in sorrow, but in gladness
+of heart. The evacuation of Petersburg and Richmond, and the
+surrender of the principal insurgent army, give hope of a righteous
+and speedy peace, whose joyous expression cannot be restrained. In
+the midst of this, however, He from whom blessings flow must not be
+forgotten.
+
+A call for a national thanksgiving is being prepared, and will be duly
+promulgated. Nor must those whose harder part gives us the cause of
+rejoicing be overlooked. Their honors must not be parceled out with
+others. I myself was near the front, and had the pleasure of
+transmitting much of the good news to you. But no part of the honor
+for plan or execution is mine. To General Grant, his skillful
+officers, and brave men, all belongs. The gallant navy stood ready,
+but was not in reach to take active part. By these recent successes,
+the reinauguration of the national authority--reconstruction which has
+had a large share of thought from the first, is pressed much more
+closely upon our attention. It is fraught with great difficulty.
+Unlike a case of war between independent nations, there is no
+authorized organ for us to treat with--no one man has authority to
+give up the rebellion for any other man. We simply must begin with and
+mould from disorganized and discordant elements. Nor is it a small
+additional embarrassment that we, the loyal people, differ among
+ourselves as to the mode, manner, and measure of reconstruction. As a
+general rule, I abstain from reading the reports of attacks upon
+myself, Wishing not to be provoked by that to which I cannot properly
+offer an answer. In spite of this precaution, however, it comes to my
+knowledge that I am much censured for some supposed agency in setting
+up and seeking to sustain the new State government of Louisiana.  In
+this I have done just so much and no more than the public knows. In
+the Annual Message of December, 1863, and the accompanying
+proclamation, I presented a plan of reconstruction, as the phrase
+goes, which I promised, if adopted by any State, would be acceptable
+to and sustained by the Executive Government of the nation. I
+distinctly stated that this was not the only plan that might possibly
+be acceptable, and I also distinctly protested that the Executive
+claimed no right to say when or whether members should be admitted to
+seats in Congress from such States. This plan was in advance submitted
+to the then Cabinet, and approved by every member of it. One of them
+suggested that I should then and in that connection apply the
+Emancipation Proclamation to the theretofore excepted parts of
+Virginia and Louisiana; that I should drop the suggestion about
+apprenticeship for freed people, and that I should omit the protest
+against my own power in regard to the admission of members of
+Congress. But even he approved every part and parcel of the plan which
+has since been employed or touched by the action of Louisiana.  The
+new constitution of Louisiana, declaring emancipation for the whole
+State, practically applies the proclamation to the part previously
+excepted. It does not adopt apprenticeship for freed people, and is
+silent, as it could not well be otherwise, about the admission of
+members to Congress. So that, as it applied to Louisiana, every member
+of the Cabinet fully approved the plan. The message went to Congress,
+and I received many commendations of the plan, written and verbal, and
+not a single objection to it from any professed emancipationist came
+to my knowledge until after the news reached Washington that the
+people of Louisiana had begun to move in accordance with it. From
+about July, 1862, I had corresponded with different persons supposed
+to be interested in seeking a reconstruction of a State government for
+Louisiana. When the message of 1863, with the plan before mentioned,
+reached New Orleans, General Banks wrote me that he was confident that
+the people, with his military co-operation, would reconstruct
+substantially on that plan. I wrote to him and some of them to try it.
+They tried it, and the result is known. Such has been my only agency
+in getting up the Louisiana government. As to sustaining it my promise
+is out, as before stated. But, as bad promises are better broken than
+kept, I shall treat this as a bad promise and break it, whenever I
+shall be convinced that keeping it is adverse to the public interest;
+but I have not yet been so convinced. I have been shown a letter on
+this subject, supposed to be an able one, in which the writer
+expresses regret that my mind has not seemed to be definitely fixed
+upon the question whether the seceded States, so called, are in the
+Union or out of it. It would perhaps add astonishment to his regret
+were he to learn that since I have found professed Union men
+endeavoring to answer that question, I have purposely forborne any
+public expression upon it. As appears to me, that question has not
+been nor yet is a practically material one, and that any discussion of
+it, while it thus remains practically immaterial, could have no effect
+other than the mischievous one of dividing our friends. As yet,
+whatever it may become, that question is bad as the basis of a
+controversy, and good for nothing at all--a merely pernicious
+abstraction. We all agree that the seceded States, so called, are out
+of their proper practical relation with the Union, and that the sole
+object of the Government, civil and military, in regard to those
+States, is to again get them into their proper practical relation. I
+believe that it is not only possible, but in fact easier, to do this
+without deciding or even considering whether those States have ever
+been out of the Union, than with it. Finding themselves safely at
+home, it would be utterly immaterial whether they had been abroad. Let
+us all join in doing the acts necessary to restore the proper
+practical relations between these States and the Union, and each
+forever after innocently indulge his own opinion whether, in doing the
+acts he brought the States from without into the Union, or only gave
+them proper assistance, they never having been out of it. The amount
+of constituency, so to speak, on which the Louisiana government rests,
+would be more satisfactory to all if it contained fifty thousand, or
+thirty thousand, or even twenty thousand, instead of twelve thousand,
+as it does. It is also unsatisfactory to some that the elective
+franchise is not given to the colored man. I would myself prefer that
+it were now conferred on the very intelligent, and on those who serve
+our cause as soldiers. Still, the question is not whether the
+Louisiana government, as it stands, is quite all that is desirable.
+The question is, Will it be wiser to take it as it is and help to
+improve it, or to reject and disperse? Can Louisiana be brought into
+proper practical relation with the Union sooner by sustaining or by
+discarding her new State government? Some twelve thousand voters in
+the heretofore Slave State of Louisiana have sworn allegiance to the
+Union, assumed to be the rightful political power of the State, held
+elections, organized a State government, adopted a Free State
+constitution, giving the benefit of public schools equally to black
+and white, and empowering the Legislature to confer the elective
+franchise upon the colored man. This Legislature has already voted to
+ratify the Constitutional Amendment recently passed by Congress,
+abolishing slavery throughout the nation. These twelve thousand
+persons are thus fully committed to the Union and to perpetuate
+freedom in the State--committed to the very things, and nearly all
+things, the nation wants--and they ask the nation's recognition and
+its assistance to make good this committal. Now, if we reject and
+spurn them, we do our utmost to disorganize and disperse them.  We, in
+fact, say to the white man: You are worthless or worse; we will
+neither help you nor be helped by you. To the blacks we say: This cup
+of liberty which these, your old masters, held to your lips, we will
+dash from you, and leave you to the chances of gathering the spilled
+and scattered contents in some vague and undefined when, where, and
+how. If this course, discouraging and paralyzing both white and black,
+has any tendency to bring Louisiana into proper practical relations
+with the Union, I have so far been unable to perceive it. If, on the
+contrary, we recognize and sustain the new government of Louisiana,
+the converse of all this is made true. We encourage the hearts and
+nerve the arms of twelve thousand to adhere to their work, and argue
+for it, and proselyte for it, and fight for it, and feed it, and grow
+it, and ripen it to a complete success. The colored man, too, in
+seeing all united for him, is inspired with vigilance, and energy, and
+daring to the same end. Grant that he desires the elective franchise,
+will he not attain it sooner by saving the already advanced steps
+towards it, than by running backward over them? Concede that the new
+government of Louisiana is only to what it should be as the egg is to
+the fowl, we shall sooner have the fowl by hatching the egg than by
+smashing it. Again, if we reject Louisiana, we also reject one vote in
+favor of the proposed amendment to the National Constitution.  To meet
+this proposition, it has been argued that no more than three fourths
+of those States which have not attempted secession are necessary to
+validly ratify the amendment. I do not commit myself against this,
+further than to say that such a ratification would be questionable,
+and sure to be persistently questioned, while a ratification by three
+fourths of all the States would be unquestioned and unquestionable. I
+repeat the question, Can Louisiana be brought into proper practical
+relation with the Union sooner by sustaining or by discarding her new
+State government? What has been said of Louisiana will apply to other
+States. And yet so great peculiarities pertain to each State, and such
+important and sudden changes occur in the same State, and withal so
+new and unprecedented is the whole case, that no exclusive and
+inflexible plan can safely be prescribed as to details and
+collaterals. Such exclusive and inflexible plan would surely become a
+new entanglement. Important principles may and must be inflexible. In
+the present situation as the phrase goes, it may be my duty to make
+some new announcement to the people of the South. I am considering,
+and shall not fail to act, when satisfied that action will be proper.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. WEITZEL.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., April 12, 1865.
+MAJOR-GENERAL WEITZEL, Richmond, Va.:
+
+I have seen your despatch to Colonel Hardie about the matter of
+prayers. I do not remember hearing prayers spoken of while I was in
+Richmond; but I have no doubt you have acted in what appeared to you
+to be the spirit and temper manifested by me while there. Is there
+any sign of the rebel legislature coming together on the
+understanding of my letter to you? If there is any such sign, inform
+me what it is; if there is no such sign, you may withdraw the offer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. WEITZEL.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., April 12, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL WEITZEL, Richmond, Va.:
+
+I have just seen Judge Campbell's letter to you of the 7th. He
+assumes, as appears to me, that I have called the insurgent
+legislature of Virginia together, as the rightful legislature of the
+State, to settle all differences with the United States. I have done
+no such thing. I spoke of them, not as a legislature, but as "the
+gentlemen who have acted as the legislature of Virginia in support of
+the rebellion." I did this on purpose to exclude the assumption that
+I was recognizing them as a rightful body. I deal with them as men
+having power de facto to do a specific thing, to wit: "To withdraw
+the Virginia troops and other support from resistance to the General
+Government," for which, in the paper handed Judge Campbell, I
+promised a specific equivalent, to wit: a remission to the people of
+the State, except in certain cases, of the confiscation of their
+property. I meant this, and no more. Inasmuch, however, as Judge
+Campbell misconstrues this, and is still pressing for an armistice,
+contrary to the explicit statement of the paper I gave him, and
+particularly as General Grant has since captured the Virginia troops,
+so that giving a consideration for their withdrawal is no longer
+applicable, let my letter to you and the paper to Judge Campbell both
+be withdrawn, or countermanded, and he be notified of it. Do not now
+allow them to assemble, but if any have come, allow them safe return
+to their homes.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INTERVIEW WITH SCHUYLER COLFAX ON THE MORNING OF APRIL 14, 1865.
+
+Mr. Colfax, I want you to take a message from me to the miners whom
+you visit. I have very large ideas of the mineral wealth of our
+nation. I believe it practically inexhaustible. It abounds all over
+the Western country, from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific, and its
+development has scarcely commenced. During the war, when we were
+adding a couple of millions of dollars every day to our national
+debt, I did not care about encouraging the increase in the volume of
+our precious metals. We had the country to save first. But now that
+the rebellion is overthrown, and we know pretty nearly the amount of
+our national debt, the more gold and silver we mine, we make the
+payment of that debt so much the easier. "Now," said he, speaking
+with more emphasis, "I am going to encourage that in every possible
+way. We shall have hundreds of thousands of disbanded soldiers, and
+many have feared that their return home in such great numbers might
+paralyze industry, by furnishing, suddenly, a greater supply of labor
+than there will be demand for. I am going to try to attract them to
+the hidden wealth of our mountain ranges, where there is room enough
+for all. Immigration, which even the war has not stopped, will land
+upon our shores hundreds of thousands more per year from overcrowded
+Europe. I intend to point them to the gold and silver that wait for
+them in the West. Tell the miners for me, that I shall promote their
+interests to the utmost of my ability; because their prosperity is
+the prosperity of the nation; and," said he, his eye kindling with
+enthusiasm, "we shall prove, in a very few years, that we are indeed
+the treasury of the world."
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL VAN ALLEN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+April 14, 1865
+
+GENERAL VAN ALLEN:
+
+I intend to adopt the advice of my friends and use due precaution....
+I thank you for the assurance you give me that I shall be
+supported by conservative men like yourself, in the efforts I may
+make to restore the Union, so as to make it, to use your language, a
+Union of hearts and hands as well as of States.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LINCOLN'S LAST WRITTEN WORDS
+
+Allow Mr. Ashmer and friend to come in at 9 A.M. to-morrow.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+April 14, 1865
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Writings of Abraham Lincoln,
+Volume 7, 1863-1865, by Abraham Lincoln
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK WRITINGS OF LINCOLN ***
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diff --git a/old/20060816.2659.zip b/old/20060816.2659.zip
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+Project Gutenberg Etext of The Writings of Abraham Lincoln, Vol 7
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+Title:  The Writings of Abraham Lincoln
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+Author:  Abraham Lincoln
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+
+
+VOLUME 7
+
+
+
+
+OPINION ON THE LOSS OF
+GENERAL R. H. MILROY'S DIVISION.
+
+October 27, 1863.
+
+In June last a division was substantially lost at or near Winchester,
+Va.  At the time, it was under General Milroy as immediate commander
+in the field, General Schenck as department commander at Baltimore,
+and General Halleck as general-in-chief at Washington.
+
+General Milroy, as immediate commander, was put in arrest, and
+subsequently a court of inquiry examined chiefly with reference to
+disobedience of orders, and reported the evidence.
+
+The foregoing is a synoptical statement of the evidence, together
+with the judge-advocate-general's conclusions.  The disaster, when it
+came, was a surprise to all.  It was very well known to Generals
+Shenck and Milroy for some time before, that General Halleck thought
+the division was in great danger of a surprise at Winchester; that it
+was of no service commensurate with the risk it incurred, and that it
+ought to be withdrawn; but, although he more than once advised its
+withdrawal, he never positively ordered it.  General Schenck, on the
+contrary, believed the service of the force at Winchester was worth
+the hazard, and so did not positively order its withdrawal until it
+was so late that the enemy cut the wire and prevented the order
+reaching General Milroy.
+
+General Milroy seems to have concurred with General Schenck in the
+opinion that the force should be kept at Winchester at least until
+the approach of danger, but he disobeyed no order upon the subject.
+
+Some question can be made whether some of General Halleck's
+dispatches to General Schenk should not have been construed to be
+orders to withdraw the force, and obeyed accordingly; but no such
+question can be made against General Milroy.  In fact, the last order
+he received was to be prepared to withdraw, but not to actually
+withdraw until further order, which further order never reached him.
+
+Serious blame is not necessarily due to any serious disaster, and I
+cannot say that in this case any of the officers are deserving of
+serious blame.  No court-martial is deemed necessary or proper in the
+case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL SCHOFIELD.
+
+Private and confidential
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, October 28, 1863.
+
+GENERAL JOHN M. SCHOFIELD:
+
+There have recently reached the War Department, and thence been laid
+before me, from Missouri, three communications, all similar in import
+and identical in object.  One of them, addressed to nobody, and
+without place or date, but having the signature of (apparently) the
+writer, is a letter of eight closely written foolscap pages.  The
+other two are written by a different person, at St.  Joseph, Mo., and
+of the dates, respectively, October 12 and 13, 1863, and each
+inclosing a large number of affidavits.  The general statements of
+the whole are that the Federal and State authorities are arming the
+disloyal and disarming the loyal, and that the latter will all be
+killed or driven out of the State unless there shall be a change.  In
+particular, no loyal man who has been disarmed is named, but the
+affidavits show by name forty-two persons as disloyal who have been
+armed.  They are as follows: [The names are omitted.]
+
+A majority of these are shown to have been in the rebel service.  I
+believe it could be shown that the government here has deliberately
+armed more than ten times as many captured at Gettysburg, to say
+nothing of similar operations in East Tennessee.  These papers
+contain altogether thirty--one manuscript pages, and one newspaper in
+extenso, and yet I do not find it anywhere charged in them that any
+loyal man has been harmed by reason of being disarmed, or that any
+disloyal one has harmed anybody by reason of being armed by the
+Federal or State Government.  Of course, I have not had time to
+carefully examine all; but I have had most of them examined and
+briefed by others, and the result is as stated.  The remarkable fact
+that the actual evil is yet only anticipated--inferred--induces me to
+suppose I understand the case; but I do not state my impression,
+because I might be mistaken, and because your duty and mine is plain
+in any event.  The locality of nearly all this seems to be St.
+Joseph and Buchanan County.   I wish you to give special attention to
+this region, particularly on election day.  Prevent violence from
+whatever quarter, and see that the soldiers themselves do no wrong.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+[Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., October 28, 1863.
+
+HON. ANDREW JOHNSON, Nashville, Tenn.:
+If not too inconvenient, please come at once and have a personal
+conversation with me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO VICE-PRESIDENT HAMLIN.
+
+AN ACT TO REGULATE THE DUTIES OF THE CLERK OF THE HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES IN PREPARING FOR THE ORGANIZATION OF THE HOUSE.
+
+Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+United States of America in Congress assembled, that, before the
+first meeting of the next Congress, and of every subsequent Congress,
+the clerk of the next preceding House of Representatives shall make a
+roll of the Representatives elect, and place thereon the names of all
+persons, and of such persons only, whose credentials show that they
+were regularly elected in accordance with the laws of their States
+respectively, or the laws of the United States.
+
+Approved March 3, 1863.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. W. GRIMES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D.C., October 29, 1863.
+
+HON. JAMES W. GRIMES.
+
+MY DEAR SIR :--The above act of Congress was passed, as I suppose,
+for the purpose of shutting out improper applicants for seats in the
+House of Representatives; and I fear there is some danger that it
+will be used to shut out proper ones.  Iowa, having an entire Union
+delegation, will be one of the States the attempt will be made, if
+upon any.  The Governor doubtless has made out the certificates, and
+they are already in the hands of the members.  I suggest that they
+come on with them; but that, for greater caution, you, and perhaps
+Mr. Harlan with you, consult with the Governor, and have an
+additional set made out according to the form on the other half of
+this sheet; and still another set, if you can, by studying the law,
+think of a form that in your judgment, promises additional security,
+and quietly bring the whole on with you, to be used in case of
+necessity.  Let what you do be kept still.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO P. F. LOWE.
+[Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., October 30, 1863.
+
+HON. F. F. LOWE, San Francisco, Cal.:
+
+Below is an act of Congress, passed last session, intended to exclude
+applicants not entitled to seats, but which, there is reason to fear,
+will be used to exclude some who are entitled.  Please get with the
+Governor and one or two other discreet friends, study the act
+carefully, and make certificates m two or three forms, according to
+your best judgement, and have them sent to me, so as to multiply the
+chances of the delegation getting their seats.  Let it be done
+without publicity.  Below is a form which may answer for one.  If you
+could procure the same to be done for the Oregon member it might be
+well.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., October 30, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Much obliged for the information about deserters contained in your
+dispatch of yesterday, while I have to beg your pardon for troubling
+you in regard to some of them, when, as it appears by yours, I had
+the means of answering my own questions.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, October 31, 1863.
+
+The Provost-Marshal-General has issued no proclamation at all.  He
+has in no form announced anything recently in regard to troops in New
+York, except in his letter to Governor Seymour of October 21, which
+has been published in the newspapers of that State.  It has not been
+announced or decided in any form by the Provost-Marshal-General, or
+any one else in authority of the Government, that every citizen who
+has paid his three hundred dollars commutation is liable to be
+immediately drafted again, or that towns that have just raised the
+money to pay their quotas will have again to be subject to similar
+taxation or suffer the operations of the new conscription, nor it is
+probable that the like of them ever will be announced or decided.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO W. H. SEWARD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 1, 1863.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Auburn, N.Y.:
+
+No important news.  Details of Hooker's night fight do great credit
+to his command, and particularly to the Eleventh Corps and Geary's
+part of the Twelfth.  No discredit on any.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO POSTMASTER-GENERAL BLAIR.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 2, 1863.
+
+HON. MONTGOMERY BLAIR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Some days ago I understood you to say that your
+brother, General Frank Blair, desires 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 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 benefit of the
+country.
+
+This will heal a dangerous schism for him.  It will relieve him from
+a dangerous position or 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 time-servers 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 was my brother
+instead of yours.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR BRADFORD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 2, 1863.
+
+His EXCELLENCY A. W. BRADFORD, Governor of Maryland.
+
+SIR:--Yours of the 31st ult.  was received yesterday about noon, and
+since then I have been giving most earnest attention to the subject-
+matter of it.  At my call General Schenck has attended, and he
+assures me it is almost certain that violence will be used at some of
+the voting places on election day unless prevented by his provost-
+guards.  He says that at some of those places Union voters will not
+attend at all, or run a ticket, unless they have some assurance of
+protection.   This makes the Missouri case, of my action in regard to
+which you express your approval.
+
+The remaining point of your letter is a protest against any person
+offering to vote being put to any test not found in the laws of
+Maryland.  This brings us to a difference between Missouri and
+Maryland.  With the same reason in both States, Missouri has, by law,
+provided a test for the voter with reference to the present
+rebellion, while Maryland has not.  For example, General Trimble,
+captured fighting us at Gettysburg, is, without recanting his
+treason, a legal voter by the laws of Maryland.  Even General
+Schenck's order admits him to vote, if he recants upon oath.  I think
+that is cheap enough.  My order in Missouri, which you approve, and
+General Scherick's order here, reach precisely the same end.  Bach
+assures the right of voting to all loyal men, and whether a man is
+loyal, each allows that man to fix by his own oath.  Your suggestion
+that nearly all the candidates are loyal, I do not think quite meets
+the case.  In this struggle for the nation's life, I cannot so
+confidently rely on those whose elections may have depended upon
+disloyal votes.  Such men, when elected, may prove true; but such
+votes are given them in the expectation that they will prove false.
+
+Nor do I think that to keep the peace at the polls, and to prevent
+the persistently disloyal from voting, constitutes just cause of
+offense to Maryland.  I think she has her own example for it.  If I
+mistake not, it is precisely what General Dix did when your
+Excellency was elected Governor.
+
+I revoke the first of the three propositions in General Schenek's
+General Order No.  53; not that it is wrong in principle, but because
+the military, being of necessity exclusive judges as to who shall be
+arrested, the provision is too liable to abuse.  For the revoked part
+I substitute the following:
+
+That, all provost-marshals and other military officers do prevent all
+disturbance and violence at or about the polls, whether offered by
+such persons as above described, or by any other person or persons
+whomsoever.
+
+The other two propositions of the order I allow to stand.  General
+Schenek is fully determined, and has my strict orders besides, that
+all loyal men may vote, and vote for whom they please.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. H. HACKETT
+[Private.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+November 2, 1863.
+
+JAMES H. HACKETT.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Yours of October 22d is received, as also was, in due
+course, that of October 3d.  I look forward with pleasure to the
+fulfillment of the promise made in the former to visit Washington the
+following winter and to "call."
+
+Give yourself no uneasiness on the subject mentioned in that
+of the 22d.  My note to you I certainly did not expect to see in
+print, yet I have not been much shocked by the newspaper comments
+upon it.
+
+Those comments constitute a fair specimen of what has occurred
+to me through life.  I have endured a great deal of ridicule, without
+much malice; and have received a great deal of kindness not quite
+free from ridicule.  I am used to it.
+
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO W. H. SEWARD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, November 3, 1863.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Auburn, N. Y.:
+
+Nothing new.  Dispatches up to 12 last night from Chattanooga show
+all quiet and doing well.  How is your son?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 3, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Samuel Wellers, private in Company B, Forty-ninth Pennsylvania
+Volunteers, writes that he is to be shot for desertion on the 6th
+instant.  His own story is rather a bad one, and yet he tells it so
+frankly, that I am somewhat interested in him.  Has he been a good
+soldier except the desertion? About how old is he?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE, MANSION
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 5, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Please suspend the execution of Samuel Wellers, Forty-ninth
+Pennsylvania Volunteers, until further
+orders.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL A. E. BURNSIDE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, November 9, 1863.4 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURNSIDE, Knoxville, Tenn.:
+
+Have seen dispatch from General Grant about your loss at Rogersville.
+Per contra, about the same time, Averell and Duffle got considerable
+advantage of the enemy at and about Lewisburg, Virginia: and on
+Saturday, the seventh, Meade drove the enemy from Rappahannock
+Station and Kelly's Ford, capturing eight battle-flags, four guns,
+and over 1800 prisoners, with very little loss to himself.  Let me
+hear from you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. G. MEADE.
+WASHINGTON, November 9, 1863 7.30 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE:
+
+I have seen your dispatches about operations on the Rappahannock on
+Saturday, and I wish to say, "Well done!" Do the 1500 prisoners
+reported by General Sedgwick include the 400 taken by General French,
+or do the Whole amount to 1900?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE EXPORT OF TOBACCO PURCHASED BY FOREIGN NATIONS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, November 10, 1863.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SCHOFIELD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 10, 1863.
+
+GENERAL SCHOFIELD, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+ I see a dispatch here from Saint Louis, which is a little difficult
+for me to understand.  It says "General Schofield has refused leave
+of absence to members in military service to attend the legislature.
+All such are radical and administration men.  The election of two
+Senators from this place on Thursday will probably turn upon this
+thing." what does this mean? Of course members of the legislation
+must be allowed to attend its sessions.  But how is there a session
+before the recent election returns are in? And how is it to be at
+"this place"--and that is Saint Louis? Please inform me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SCHOFIELD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C.,November 11, 1863.
+
+GENERAL SCHOFIELD, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+I believe the Secretary of War has telegraphed you about members of
+the legislation.  At all events, allow those in the service to attend
+the session, and we can afterward decide whether they can stay
+through the entire session.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HIRAM BARNEY.
+     [Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 11, 1863.
+
+HON. HIRAM BARNEY, New York;
+I would like an interview with you.  Can you not come?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. MILDERBORGER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 11, 1863.
+
+JOHN MILDERBORGER, Peru, Ind.:
+
+I cannot comprehend the object of your dispatch.  I do not often
+decline seeing people who call upon me, and probably will see you if
+you call.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM to E. H. AND E. JAMESON.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 13, 1863.
+
+E. H. and E. JAMESON, Jefferson City, Mo.:
+
+Yours saying Brown and Henderson are elected Senators is received. I
+understand this is one and one.  If so it is knocking heads together
+to some
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, November 14, 1863.  12.15 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Cincinnati, Ohio:
+
+I have received and considered your dispatch of yesterday.  Of the
+reports you mention, I have not the means of seeing any except your
+own.  Besides this, the publication might be improper in view of the
+court of inquiry which has been ordered.  With every disposition, not
+merely to do justice, but to oblige you, I feel constrained to say I
+think the publications better not be made now.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BURNSIDE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, November 16, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURNSIDE, Knoxville, Tenn.:
+
+What is the news?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY CHASE
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, November 17, 1863.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I expected to see you here at Cabinet meeting, and to
+say something about going to Gettysburg.  There will be a train to
+take and return us.  The time for starting is not yet fixed, but when
+it shall be I will notify you.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS AT GETTYSBURG
+
+NOVEMBER 19, 1863.
+
+Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this
+continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the
+proposition that all men are created equal.
+
+Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation
+or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure.  We are
+met on a great battle-field of that war.   We have come to dedicate a
+portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here
+gave their lives that that nation might live.   It is altogether
+fitting and proper that we should do this.
+
+But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate--we can not consecrate--
+we can not hallow--this ground.  The brave men, living and dead, who
+struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add
+or detract.  The world will little note, nor long remember what we
+say here, but it can never forget what they did here.  It is for us
+the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which
+they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced.  It is rather
+for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us--
+that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause
+for which they gave the last full measure of devotion that we here
+highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain--that this
+nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom--and that
+government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not
+perish from the earth.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 20, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+If there is a man by the name of King under sentence to be shot,
+please suspend execution till further order, and send record.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON. November 20, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+An intelligent woman in deep distress, called this morning, saying
+her husband, a lieutenant in the Army of Potomac, was to be shot next
+Monday for desertion, and putting a letter in my hand, upon which I
+relied for particulars, she left without mentioning a name or other
+particular by which to identify the case.  On opening the letter I
+found it equally vague, having nothing to identify by, except her own
+signature, which seems to be "Mrs. Anna S. King." I could not again
+find her.  If you have a case which you shall think is probably the
+one intended, please apply my dispatch of this morning to it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO E. P. EVANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 23, 1863.
+
+E. P. EVANS, West Union, Adams County, Ohio:
+
+Yours to Governor Chase in behalf of John A Welch is before me.  Can
+there be a worse case than to desert and with letters persuading
+others to desert? I cannot interpose without a better showing than
+you make.  When did he desert? when did he write the letters?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 23, 1863.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Two despatches since I saw you; one not quite so late
+on firing as we had before, but giving the points that Burnside
+thinks he can hold the place, that he is not closely invested, and
+that he forages across the river.  The other brings the firing up to
+11 A.M. yesterday, being twenty-three hours later than we had before.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, November 25, 1863.  8.40 A.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL U.S. GRANT:
+
+Your despatches as to fighting on Monday and Tuesday are here.  Well
+done!  Many thanks to all.  Remember Burnside.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO C. P. KIRKLAND.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 7, 1863.
+
+CHARLES P. KIRKLAND, ESQ., New York:
+
+I have just received and have read your published letter to the HON.
+Benjamin R. Curtis.  Under the circumstances I may not be the most
+competent judge, but it appears to me to be a paper of great ability,
+and for the country's sake more than for my own I thank you for it.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANNOUNCEMENT OF UNION SUCCESS IN EAST TENNESSEE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+December 7, 1863.
+
+Reliable information being received that the insurgent force is
+retreating from East Tennessee, under circumstances rendering it
+probable that the Union forces cannot 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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OF AMNESTY AND RECONSTRUCTION
+DECEMBER 8, 1863.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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,
+
+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
+
+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
+
+Whereas the Congressional declaration for limited and conditional
+pardon accords with well-established judicial exposition of the
+pardoning power; and
+
+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
+
+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:
+
+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:
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+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 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."
+
+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.
+
+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 co and which may be deemed
+expedient by those framing the new State government.
+
+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 re-established 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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+ANNUAL MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+DECEMBER 8, 1863.
+
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES:--Another year of health, and of sufficiently
+abundant harvests, has passed.  For these, and especially for the
+improved condition cf our national affairs, our renewed and
+profoundest gratitude to God is due.
+
+We remain in peace and friendship with foreign powers.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 of 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The joint commission under the act of the last session of 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.
+
+Difficulties concerning interoceanic transit through Nicaragua are in
+course of amicable adjustment.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 estoppe
+against any plea of exemption from military service or other civil
+obligation on the ground of alienage.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The report of the Secretary of War is a document of great interest.
+It consists of:
+1.The military operations of the year, detailed in the report of the
+General in Chief.
+2.The organization of colored persons into the war service.
+3.The exchange of prisoners, fully set forth in the letter of General
+Hitchcock.
+4.The operations under the act for enrolling and calling out the
+national forces, detailed in the report of the Provost Marshal
+General.
+5.The organization of the invalid corps, and
+6.The operation of the several departments of the Quartermaster-
+General, Commissary-General, Paymaster-General, Chief of Engineers,
+Chief of Ordnance, and Surgeon-General.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The naval force of the United States consists at this time of five
+hundred and eighty-eight vessels completed and in the course of
+completion, and of these seventy-five 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 that those of 1863.
+The decrease since 1860 in the annual amount of transportation has
+been only about twenty-five per cent, but the annual expenditure on
+account of the same has been reduced thirty-five 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+I commend the benevolent institutions established or patronized by
+the Government in this District to your generous and fostering care.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 are 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, dispute now only as to the best mode of
+removing it within their own limits.
+
+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, criticized, 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.
+
+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.  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 promised a pardon only 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 ( 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 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 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+WASHINGTON D. C., December 8, 1863.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend
+that Captain John Rogers 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 Fingal, alias
+Atlanta, whilst in command of the United States ironclad steamer
+Weehawken, 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.
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE SENATE.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 8, 1863.
+
+TO THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, December 8, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL GRANT:
+Understanding that your lodgment at Chattanooga and Knoxville is now
+secure, I wish to tender you, and all under your command, my more
+than thanks, my profoundest gratitude, for the skill, courage, and
+perseverance with which you and they, over so great difficulties,
+have effected that important object.  God bless you all!
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR CURTIN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 9, 1863
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY A. G. CURTIN,
+Governor of Pennsylvania.
+DEAR SIR:--I have to urge my illness, and the preparation of the
+message, in excuse for not having sooner transmitted you the inclosed
+from the Secretary of War and Provost Marshal General in response to
+yours in relation to recruiting in Pennsylvania.   Though not quite
+as you desire, I hope the grounds taken will be reasonably
+satisfactory to you.  Allow me to exchange congratulations with you
+on the organization of the House of Representatives, and especially
+on recent military events in Georgia and Tennessee.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 10, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Please suspend execution in any and all sentences of death in your
+department until further order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 11, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Lieut.  Col.  James B. Knox, Tenth Regiment Pennsylvania Reserves,
+offers his resignation under circumstances inducing me to wish to
+accept it.  But I prefer to know your pleasure upon the subject.
+Please answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO JUDGE HOFFMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+December 15, 1863.
+
+HON. OGDEN HOFFMAN, U. S. District Judge, San Francisco, Cal.:
+
+The oath in the proclamation of December 8 is intended for those who
+may voluntarily take it, and not for those who may be constrained to
+take it in order to escape actual imprisonment or punishment.  It is
+intended that the latter class shall abide the granting or
+withholding of the pardoning power in the ordinary way.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MARY GONYEAG.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 15, 1863.
+
+MOTHER MARY GONYEAG, Superior, Academy of Visitation,
+Keokuk, Iowa:
+
+The President has no authority as to whether you may raffle for the
+benevolent object you mention.  If there is no objection in the Iowa
+laws, there is none here.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING DISCRIMINATING DUTIES,
+DECEMBER 16, 1863.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+Whereas satisfactory evidence has lately been received by me through
+an official communication of Senor 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 second 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:
+
+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
+the 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.
+
+Given under my hand at the city of Washington, the sixteenth day of
+December, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and
+sixty-three, and the eighty-eighth of the Independence of the United
+States.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+DECEMBER 17, 1863.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL HURLBUT.
+[Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 17, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HURLBUT, Memphis, Tenn.:
+
+I understand you have under sentence of death, a tall old man, by the
+name of Henry F. Luckett.  I personally knew him, and did not think
+him a bad man.   Please do not let him be executed unless upon
+further order from me, and in the meantime send me a transcript of
+the record.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, December 19, 1863.
+
+GENERAL GRANT, Chattanooga, Tennessee:
+
+The Indiana delegation in Congress, or at least a large part of them,
+are very anxious that General Milroy shall enter active service
+again, and I share in this feeling.  He is not a difficult man to
+satisfy, sincerity and courage being his strong traits.  Believing in
+our cause, and wanting to fight for it, is the whole matter with him.
+Could you, without embarrassment, assign him a place, if directed to
+report to you?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+(Private.)
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 21, 1863.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Sending a note to the Secretary of the Navy, as I
+promised, he called over and said that the strikes in the ship-yards
+had thrown the completion of vessels back so much that he thought
+General Gilimore's proposition entirely proper.  He only wishes (and
+in which I concur) that General Gillmore will courteously confer
+with, and explain to, Admiral Dahlgren.
+
+In regard to the Western matter, I believe the program will have to
+stand substantially as I first put it.  Henderson, and especially
+Brown, believe that the social influence of St.  Louis would
+inevitably tell injuriously upon General Pope in the particular
+difficulty existing there, and I think there is some force in that
+view.
+
+As to retaining General Schofield temporarily, if this should be
+done, I believe I should scarcely be able to get his nomination
+through the Senate.  Send me over his nomination, which, however, I
+am not quite ready to send to the Senate.
+
+Yours as ever,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO O. D. FILLEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 22, 1863.
+
+O. D. FILLEY, ST. Louis, Missouri:
+
+I have just looked over a petition signed by some three dozen
+citizens of St.  Louis, and three accompanying letters, one by
+yourself, one by a Mr. Nathan Ranney, and one by a Mr. John D.
+Coalter, the whole relating to the Rev.  Dr. McPheeters.  The
+petition prays, in the name of justice and mercy, that I will restore
+Dr. McPheeters to all his ecclesiastical rights.   This gives no
+intimation as to what ecclesiastical rights are withheld.
+
+Your letter states that Provost-Marshal Dick, about a year ago,
+ordered the arrest of Dr. McPheeters, pastor of the Vine Street
+Church, prohibited him from officiating, and placed the management of
+the affairs of the church out of the control of its chosen trustees;
+and near the close you state that a certain course "would insure his
+release."  Mr. Ranney's letter says: "Dr. Samuel S. McPheeters is
+enjoying all the rights of a civilian, but cannot preach the
+Gospel!!!!"  Mr. Coalter, in his letter, asks: "Is it not a strange
+illustration of the condition of things, that the question of who
+shall be allowed to preach in a church in St. Louis shall be decided
+by the President of the United States?"
+
+Now, all this sounds very strangely; and, withal, a little as if you
+gentlemen making the application do not understand the case alike;
+one affirming that the doctor is enjoying all the rights of a
+civilian, and another pointing out to me what will secure his
+release! On the second day of January last, I wrote to General Curtis
+in relation to Mr. Dick's order upon Dr. McPheeters; and, as I
+suppose the doctor is enjoying all the rights of a civilian, I only
+quote that part of my letter which relates to the church.  It is as
+follows: "But I must add that the United States Government must not,
+as by this order, undertake to run the churches.  When an individual,
+in a church or out of it, becomes dangerous to the public interest,
+he must be checked; but the churches, as such, must take care of
+themselves.  It will not do for the United States to appoint
+trustees, supervisors, or other agents for the churches."
+
+This letter going to General Curtis, then in command there, I
+supposed, of course, it was obeyed, especially as I heard no further
+complaint from Dr. McPheeters or his friends for nearly an entire
+year.  I have never interfered, nor thought of interfering, as to who
+shall or shall not preach in any church; nor have I knowingly or
+believingly tolerated any one else to so interfere by my authority.
+If any one is so interfering by color of my authority, I would like
+to have it specifically made known to me.   If, after all, what is
+now sought is to have me put Dr. McPheeters back over the heads of a
+majority of his own congregation, that, too, will be declined.  I
+will not have control of any church on any side.
+
+Yours respectfully,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MILITARY COMMANDER AT POINT LOOKOUT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 22, 1863.
+
+MILITARY COMMANDER, Point Lookout, Md.:
+
+If you have a prisoner by the name Linder--Daniel Linder, I think,
+and certainly the son of U. F. Linder, of Illinois, please send him
+to me by an officer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MILITARY COMMANDER AT POINT LOOKOUT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 24, 1863.
+
+MILITARY COMMANDER, Point Lookout, Md.:
+
+If you send Linder to me as directed a day or two ago, also send
+Edwin C. Claybrook, of Ninth Virginia rebel cavalry.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO U. F. LINDER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON D. C., December 26, 1863.
+
+HON. U. F. LINDER, Chicago, Ill.:
+Your son Dan has just left me with my order to the Secretary of War,
+to administer to him the oath of allegiance, discharge him and send
+him to you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL N. P. BANKS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 29, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BANKS:
+
+Yours of the sixteenth is received, and I send you, as covering the
+ground of it, a copy of my answer to yours of the sixth, it being
+possible the original may not reach you.  I intend you to be master
+in every controversy made with you.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 30, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Jacob Bowers is fully pardoned for past offence, upon condition that
+he returns to duty and re-enlists for three years or during the war.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, December 31, 1863.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+SIR:--Please fix up the department to which Curtis is to go, without
+waiting to wind up the Missouri matter.  Lane is very anxious to have
+Fort Smith in it, and I am willing, unless there be decided military
+reasons to the contrary, in which case of course, I am not for it.
+It will oblige me to have the Curtis department fixed at once.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+1864
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SULLIVAN.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D.C., January 1, 1864.  3.30pm
+
+GENERAL SULLIVAN, Harper's Ferry:
+
+Have you anything new from Winchester, Martinsburg or thereabouts?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR PIERPOINT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 2, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR PIERPOINT, Alexandria, Va.:
+
+Please call and see me to-day if not too inconvenient.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 2, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+SIR:--The Secretary of War and myself have concluded to discharge of
+the prisoners at Point Lookout the following classes: First, those
+who will take the oath prescribed in the proclamation of December 8,
+and issued by the consent of General Marston, will enlist in our
+service.  Second, those who will take the oath and be discharged and
+whose homes lie safely within our military lines.
+
+I send by Mr. Hay this letter and a blank-book and some other blanks,
+the way of using which I propose for him to explain verbally better
+than I can in writing.
+
+Yours, very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 5, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE:
+
+If not inconsistent with the service, please allow General William
+Harrow as long a leave of absence as the rules permit with the
+understanding that I may lengthen it if I see fit.  He is an
+acquaintance and friend of mine, and his family matters very urgently
+require his presence.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+JANUARY 5, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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 three hundred dollars 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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 6, 1864. 2 P.M.
+
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Kentucky:
+
+Yours of yesterday received.  Nothing is known here about General
+Foster's order, of which you complain, beyond the fair presumption
+that it comes from General Grant, and that it has an object which, if
+you understood, you would be loath to frustrate.  True, these troops
+are, in strict law, only to be removed by my order; but General
+Grant's judgment would be the highest incentive to me to make such
+order.  Nor can I understand how doing so is bad faith and dishonor,
+nor yet how it so exposes Kentucky to ruin.  Military men here do not
+perceive how it exposes Kentucky, and I am sure Grant would not
+permit it if it so appeared to him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL Q. A. GILLMORE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 13, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL GILLMORE:
+
+I understand an effort is being made by some worthy gentlemen to
+reconstruct a legal State government in Florida.   Florida is in your
+Department, and it is not unlikely you may be there in person.  I
+have given Mr. Hay a commission of major, and sent him to you, with
+some blank-books and other blanks, to aid in the reconstruction.  He
+will explain as to the manner of using the blanks, and also my
+general views on the subject.  It is desirable for all to co-operate,
+but if irreconcilable differences of opinion shall arise, you are
+master.  I wish the thing done in the most speedy way, so that when
+done it be within the range of the late proclamation on the subject.
+The detail labor will, of course, have to be done by others; but I
+will be greatly obliged if you will give it such general supervision
+as you can find consistent with your more strictly military duties.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BROUGH.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 15, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BROUGH, Columbus, Ohio:
+
+If Private William G. Toles, of Fifty-ninth Ohio Volunteers, returns
+to his regiment and faithfully serves out his term, he is fully
+pardoned for all military offenses prior to this.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO CROSBY AND NICHOLS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 16, 1864.
+
+MESSRS. CROSBY AND NICHOLS.
+
+GENTLEMEN : The number for this month and year of the North American
+Review was duly received, and for which please accept my thanks.  Of
+course I am not the most impartial judge; yet, with due allowance for
+this, I venture to hope that the article entitled The President's
+Policy" will be of value to the country.  I fear I am not worthy of
+all which is therein kindly said of me personally.
+
+The sentence of twelve lines, commencing at the top of page 252, I
+could wish to be not exactly what it is.  In what is there expressed,
+the writer has not correctly understood me.  I have never had a
+theory that secession could absolve States or people from their
+obligations.  Precisely the contrary is asserted in the inaugural
+address; and it was because of my belief in the continuation of those
+obligations that I was puzzled, for a time, as to denying the legal
+rights of those citizens who remained individually innocent of
+treason or rebellion.  But I mean no more now than to merely call
+attention to this point.
+
+Yours respectfully,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL P. STEELE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 20, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE:
+
+Sundry citizens of the State of Arkansas petition me that an election
+may be held in that State, at which to elect a Governor; that it be
+assumed at that election, and thenceforward, that the constitution
+and laws of the State, as before the rebellion, are in full force,
+except that the constitution is so modified as to declare that there
+shall be neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except in the
+punishment of crimes whereof the party shall have been duly
+convicted; that the General Assembly may make such provisions for the
+freed people as shall recognize and declare their permanent freedom,
+and provide for their education, and which may yet be construed as a
+temporary arrangement suitable to their condition as a laboring,
+landless, and homeless class; that said election shall be held on the
+28th of March, 1864, at all the usual places of the State, or all
+such as voters may attend for that purpose, that the voters attending
+at eight o'clock in the morning of said day may choose judges and
+clerks of election for such purpose; that all persons qualified by
+said constitution and laws, and taking the oath presented in the
+President's proclamation of December 8, 1863, either before or at the
+election, and none others, may be voters; that each set of judges and
+clerks may make returns directly to you on or before the __th day of
+_____next; that in all other respects said election may be conducted
+according to said constitution and laws: that on receipt of said
+returns, when five thousand four hundred and six votes shall have
+been cast, you can receive said votes, and ascertain all who shall
+thereby appear to have been elected; that on the ___th day of
+_______next, all persons so appearing to have been elected, who shall
+appear before you at Little Rock, and take the oath, to be by you
+severally administered, to support the Constitution of the United
+States and said modified Constitution of the State of Arkansas, may
+be declared by you qualified and empowered to enter immediately upon
+the duties of the offices to which they shall have been respectively
+elected.
+
+You will please order an election to take place on the 28th of March,
+1864, and returns to be made in fifteen days thereafter.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS, JANUARY 20, 1864
+
+GENTLEMEN OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER APPROVING TRADE REGULATIONS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 26, 1864.
+
+I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States having seen and
+considered the additional regulations of trade prescribed by the
+Secretary of the Treasury, and numbered LI, LII, LIII, LIV, LV, and
+LVI, do hereby approve the same; and I further declare and order that
+all property brought in for sale, in good faith, and actually sold in
+pursuance of said Regulations LII, LIII, LIV, LV, and LVI,
+after the same shall have taken effect and come in force as provided
+in Regulation LVI, shall be exempt from confiscation or forfeiture to
+the United States.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL FOSTER.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., January 27, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL FOSTER, Knoxville, Tenn.:
+
+Is a supposed correspondence between General Longstreet and yourself
+about the amnesty proclamation, which is now in the newspapers,
+genuine?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO E. STANLEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 28, 1864
+
+HON. EDWARD STANLEY, San Francisco, Cal.:
+
+Yours of yesterday received.  We have rumors similar to the dispatch
+received by you, but nothing very definite from North Carolina.
+Knowing Mr. Stanley to be an able man, and not doubting that he is a
+patriot, I should be glad for him to be with his old acquaintances
+south of Virginia, but I am unable to suggest anything definite upon
+the subject.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL H. W. HALLECK.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, January 28, 1864.
+MAJOR-GENERAL HALLECK:
+
+Some citizens of Missouri, vicinity of Kansas City, are apprehensive
+that there is special danger of renewed troubles in that
+neighborhood, and thence on the route toward New Mexico.  I am not
+impressed that the danger is very great or imminent, but I will thank
+you to give Generals Rosecrans and Curtis, respectively, such orders
+as may turn their attention thereto and prevent as far as possible
+the apprehended disturbance.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SICKLES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 29, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SICKLES, New York:
+
+Could you, without it being inconvenient or disagreeable to yourself,
+immediately take a trip to Arkansas for me?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 31, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Ky.:
+
+General Boyle's resignation is accepted, so that your Excellency can
+give him the appointment proposed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+COLONIZATION EXPERIMENT
+
+ORDER TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 1, 1864
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER FOR A DRAFT OF FIVE HUNDRED
+THOUSAND MEN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 1, 1864.
+
+Ordered, That a draft of five hundred thousand (500,000) men, to
+serve for three years or during the war, be made on the tenth (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 first (1st) day of March,
+and not before credited.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR YATES.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 3, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR YATES, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+The United States Government lot in Springfield can be used for a
+soldiers' home, with the understanding that the Government does not
+incur any expense
+in the case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR MURPHY.
+WASHINGTON, February 6, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR J. MURPHY:
+
+My order to General Steele about an election was made in ignorance of
+the action your convention had taken or would take.  A subsequent
+letter directs General Steele to aid you on your own plan, and not to
+thwart or hinder you.  Show this to him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION
+
+TOLD BY THE PRESIDENT,
+TO THE ARTIST F. B. CARPENTER,
+FEBRUARY 6, 1864.
+
+It had got to be," said Mr. Lincoln, "midsummer, 1862.  Things had
+gone on from bad to worse, until I felt that we had reached the end
+of our rope on the plan of operations we had been pursuing; that we
+had about played our last card, and must change our tactics, or lose
+the game.  I now determined upon the adoption of the emancipation
+policy; and without consultation with, or the knowledge of, the
+Cabinet, I prepared the original draft of the proclamation, and,
+after much anxious thought, called a Cabinet meeting  upon  the
+subject.  This was the last of July or the first part of the month of
+August, 1862.   [The exact date was July 22, 1862.]  .  .  .  All
+were present excepting Mr. Blair, the Postmaster-General, who was
+absent at the opening of the discussion, but came in subsequently.  I
+said to the Cabinet that I had resolved upon this step, and had not
+called them together to ask their advice, but to lay the subject-
+matter of a proclamation before them, suggestions as to which would
+be in order after they had heard it read.   Mr. Lovejoy was in error
+when he informed you that it excited no comment excepting on the part
+of Secretary Seward.  Various suggestions were offered.  Secretary
+Chase wished the language stronger in reference to the arming of the
+blacks.
+
+"Mr. Blair, after he came in, deprecated the policy on the ground
+that it would cost the administration the fall elections.  Nothing,
+however, was offered that I had not already fully anticipated and
+settled in my mind, until Secretary Seward spoke.  He said in
+substance, 'Mr. President, I approve of the proclamation, but I
+question the expediency of its issue at this juncture.  The
+depression of the public mind, consequent upon our repeated reverses,
+is so great that I fear the effect of so important a step.  It may be
+viewed as the last measure of an exhausted government, a cry for
+help; the government stretching forth its hands to Ethiopia, instead
+of Ethiopia stretching forth her hands to the government.'  His
+idea," said the President, "was that it would be considered our last
+shriek on the retreat.  [This was his precise expression.]  'Now,'
+continued Mr. Seward, 'while I approve the measure, I suggest, sir,
+that you postpone its issue until you can give it to the country
+supported by military success, instead of issuing it, as would be the
+case now, upon the greatest disasters of the war.'  "Mr. Lincoln
+continued "The wisdom of the view of the Secretary of State struck me
+with very great force.  It was an aspect of the case that, in all my
+thought upon the subject, I had entirely overlooked.  The result was
+that I put the draft of the proclamation aside, as you do your sketch
+for a picture, waiting for a victory.
+
+"From time to time I added or changed a line, touching it up here and
+there, anxiously watching the process of events.  Well, the next news
+we had was of Pope's disaster at Bull Run.  Things looked darker than
+ever.  Finally came the week of the battle of Antietam.  I determined
+to wait no longer.   The news came, I think, on Wednesday, that the
+advantage was on our side.  I was then staying at the Soldiers' Home
+[three miles out of Washington].  Here I finished writing the second
+draft of the preliminary proclamation; came up on Saturday; called
+the Cabinet together to hear it, and it was published on the
+following Monday."
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SEDGWICK.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 11, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SEDGWICK, Army of Potomac:
+
+Unless there be some strong reason to the contrary, please send
+General Kilpatrick to us here, for two or three days.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HORACE MAYNARD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 13, 1864.
+
+HON. HORACE MAYNARD, Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+Your letter of [the] second received.  Of course Governor Johnson
+will proceed with reorganization as the exigencies of the case appear
+to him to require.  I do not apprehend he will think it necessary to
+deviate from my views to any ruinous extent.  On one hasty reading I
+see no such deviation in his program, which you send.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO W. M. FISHBACK.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, February 17, 1864.
+
+WILLIAM M. FISHBACK, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+When I fixed a plan for an election in Arkansas I did it in ignorance
+that your convention was doing the same work.  Since I learned the
+latter fact I have been constantly trying to yield my plan to them.
+I have sent two letters to General Steele, and three or four
+despatches to you and others, saying that he, General Steele, must be
+master, but that it will probably be best for him to merely help the
+convention on its own plan.  Some single mind must be master, else
+there will be no agreement in anything, and General Steele,
+commanding the military and being on the ground, is the best man to
+be that master.  Even now citizens are telegraphing me to postpone
+the election to a later day than either that fixed by the convention
+or by me.  This discord must be silenced.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL STEELE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 17, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+The day fixed by the convention for the election is probably the
+best, but you on the ground, and in consultation with gentlemen
+there, are to decide.  I should have fixed no day for an election,
+presented no plan for reconstruction, had I known the convention was
+doing the same things.  It is probably best that you merely assist
+the convention on their own plan, as to election day and all other
+matters I have already written and telegraphed this half a dozen
+times.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO A. ROBINSON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 18, 1864.
+
+A. ROBINSON, Leroy, N. Y.:
+
+The law only obliges us to keep accounts with States, or at most
+Congressional Districts, and it would overwhelm us to attempt in
+counties, cities and towns.  Nevertheless we do what we can to oblige
+in particular cases.  In this view I send your dispatch to the
+Provost-Marshal General, asking him to do the best he can for you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING BLOCKADE,
+FEBRUARY 18, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+Whereas, by my proclamation of the nineteenth of April, one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-one, 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
+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:
+
+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; sail-cloth of all kinds, hemp
+and cordage, intoxicating drinks other than beer and light native
+wines.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.  Done at the city of Washington,
+this eighteenth day of February, in the year of our Lord one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United
+States the eighty-eighth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COMMANDER BLAKE.
+EXECUTIVE, MANSION, February 19, 1864.
+
+COMMANDER GEORGE S. BLAKE,
+Commandant Naval Academy, Newport, R. I.:
+
+I desire the case of Midshipman C. Lyon re-examined and if not
+clearly inconsistent I shall be much obliged to have the
+recommendation changed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM WARREN JORDAN.
+NASHVILLE, February 20, 1864.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Secretary of State, Washington, D.C.:
+
+In county and State elections, must citizens of Tennessee take the
+oath prescribed by Governor Johnson, or will the President's oath of
+amnesty entitle them to vote? I have been appointed to hold the March
+election in Cheatham County, and wish to act understandingly.
+
+WARREN JORDAN.
+
+
+
+
+WASHINGTON, February 20, 1864.
+
+WARREN JORDAN, NASHVILLE:
+
+In county elections you had better stand by Governor Johnson's plan;
+otherwise you will have conflict and confusion.  I have seen his
+plan.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 22, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Saint LOUIS, MO.:
+
+Colonel Sanderson will be ordered to you to-day, a mere omission that
+it was not done before. The other questions in your despatch I am not
+yet prepared to answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL STEELE.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 22, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Ark.:
+
+Yours of yesterday received. Your conference with citizens approved.
+Let the election be on the i4th of March as they agreed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL F. STEELE.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, February 25, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+General Sickles is not going to Arkansas.  He probably will make a
+tour down the Mississippi and home by the gulf and ocean, but he will
+not meddle in your affairs.
+
+At one time I did intend to have him call on you and explain more
+fully than I could do by letter or telegraph, so as to avoid a
+difficulty coming of my having made a plan here, while the convention
+made one there, for reorganizing Arkansas; but even his doing that
+has been given up for more than two weeks.  Please show this to
+Governor Murphy to save me telegraphing him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+DESERTERS DEATH SENTENCES REMITTED
+
+GENERAL ORDERS, NO.76.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
+
+WASHINGTON, February 26, 1864.
+
+Sentence of Deserters.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Copies of all orders issued under the foregoing instructions will be
+immediately forwarded to the Adjutant-General and to the Judge-
+Advocate General.
+
+By order of the Secretary of War:
+B. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General
+
+
+
+
+FEMALE SPY
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 26, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort.  Monroe, Va.:
+
+I cannot remember at whose request it was that I gave the pass to
+Mrs. Bulky.  Of course detain her, if the evidence of her being a spy
+is strong against her.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO W. JAYNE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 26, 1864.
+
+HON. W. JAYNE.
+
+DEAR SIR--I dislike to make changes in office so long as they can be
+avoided.  It multiplies my embarrassments immensely.  I dislike two
+appointments when one will do.  Send me the name of some man not the
+present marshal, and I will nominate him to be Provost-Marshal for
+Dakota.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO E. H. EAST.
+
+WASHINGTON, February 27, 1864.
+
+HON. E. H: EAST, Secretary of State, Nashville, Tennessee
+
+Your telegram of the twenty-sixth instant asking for a copy of my
+despatch to Warren Jordan, Esq., at Nashville Press office, has just
+been referred to me by Governor Johnson.  In my reply to Mr. Jordan,
+which was brief and hurried, I intended to say that in the county and
+State elections of Tennessee, the oath prescribed in the proclamation
+of Governor Johnson on the twenty-sixth of January, 1864, ordering an
+election in Tennessee on the first Saturday in March next, is
+entirely satisfactory to me as a test of loyalty of all persons
+proposing or offering to vote in said elections; and coming from him
+would better be observed and followed.  There is no conflict between
+the oath of amnesty in my proclamation of eighth December, 1863, and
+that prescribed by Governor Johnson in his proclamation of the
+twenty-sixth ultimo.
+
+No person who has taken the oath of amnesty of eighth December, 1863,
+and obtained a pardon thereby, and who intends to observe the same in
+good faith, should have any objection to taking that prescribed by
+Governor Johnson as a test of loyalty.
+
+I have seen and examined Governor Johnson's proclamation, and am
+entirely satisfied with his plan, which is to restore the State
+government and place it under the control of citizens truly loyal to
+the Government of the United States.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+Please send above to Governor Johnson.
+A. L.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 27, 1864
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+SIR:--You ask some instructions from me in relation to the Report of
+Special Commission constituted by an order of the War Department,
+dated December 5, 1863, "to revise the enrolment and quotas of the
+City and State of New York, and report whether there be any, and
+what, errors or irregularities therein, and what corrections, if any,
+should be made."
+
+In the correspondence between the Governor of New York and myself
+last summer, I understood him to complain that the enrolments in
+several of the districts of that State had been neither accurately
+nor honestly made; and in view of this, I, for the draft then
+immediately ensuing, ordered an arbitrary reduction of the quotas in
+several of the districts wherein they seemed too large, and said:
+"After this drawing, these four districts, and also the seventeenth
+and twenty-ninth, shall be carefully re-enrolled, and, if you please,
+agents of yours may witness every step of the process." In a
+subsequent letter I believe some additional districts were put into
+the list of those to be re-enrolled.  My idea was to do the work over
+according to the law, in presence of the complaining party, and
+thereby to correct anything which might be found amiss.  The
+commission, whose work I am considering, seem to have proceeded upon
+a totally different idea.  Not going forth to find men at all, they
+have proceeded altogether upon paper examinations and mental
+processes.  One of their conclusions, as I understand, is that, as
+the law stands, and attempting to follow it, the enrolling officers
+could not have made the enrolments much more accurately than they
+did.  The report on this point might be useful to Congress.  The
+commission conclude that the quotas for the draft should be based
+upon entire population, and they proceed upon this basis to give a
+table for the State of New York, in which some districts are reduced
+and some increased.  For the now ensuing draft, let the quotas stand
+as made by the enrolling officers, in the districts wherein this
+table requires them to be increased; and let them be reduced
+according to the table in the others: this to be no precedent for
+subsequent action.  But, as I think this report may, on full
+consideration, be shown to have much that is valuable in it, I
+suggest that such consideration be given it, and that it be
+especially considered whether its suggestions can be conformed to
+without an alteration of the law.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL THOMAS.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, February 28, 1864.
+
+GENERAL L. THOMAS, Louisville, Kentucky:
+
+I see your despatch of yesterday to the Secretary of War.
+
+I wish you would go to the Mississippi River at once, and take hold
+of and be master in the contraband and leasing business.  You
+understand it better than any other man does.  Mr. Miller's system
+doubtless is well intended, but from what I hear I fear that, if
+persisted in, it would fall dead within its own entangling details.
+Go there and be the judge.  A Mr. Lewis will probably follow you with
+something from me on this subject, but do not wait for him.  Nor is
+this to induce you to violate or neglect any military order from the
+General-in-Chief or Secretary of War.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY CHASE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 29, 1864.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I would have taken time to answer yours of the 22d
+inst. sooner, only that I did not suppose any evil could result from
+the delay, especially as, by a note, I promptly acknowledged the
+receipt of yours, and promised a fuller answer.  Now, on
+consideration I find there is really very little to say.  My
+knowledge of Mr. Pomeroy's letter having been made public came to me
+only the day you wrote; but I had, in spite of myself, known of its
+existence several days before.  I have not yet read it, and I think I
+shall not.  I was not shocked or surprised by the appearance of the
+letter, because I had had knowledge of Mr. Pomeroy's committee, and
+of secret issues which, I supposed, came from it, and of secret
+agents who, I supposed, were sent out by it for several weeks.  I
+have known just as little a these things as my friends have allowed
+me to know.  They bring the documents to me, but I do not read them;
+they tell me what they think fit to tell me, but I do not inquire for
+more.
+
+I fully concur with you that neither of us can justly be held
+responsible for what our respective friends may do without our
+instigation or countenance and I assure you, as you have assured me,
+that no assault has been made upon you by my instigation, or with my
+countenance.
+
+Whether you shall remain at the head of the Treasury Department is a
+question which I will not allow myself to consider from any
+standpoint other than my judgment of the public service, and, in that
+view, I do not perceive occasion for a change.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL THOMAS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, March 1,1864.
+
+GENERAL L. THOMAS:
+
+This introduces Mr. Lewis, mentioned in my despatch sent you at
+Louisville some days ago.  I have but little personal acquaintance
+with him; but he has the confidence of several members of Congress
+here who seem to know him well.  He hopes to be useful, without
+charge to the government, in facilitating the introduction of the
+free-labor system on the Mississippi plantations.  He is acquainted
+with, and has access to, many of the planters who wish to adopt the
+system.  He will show you two letters of mine on this subject, one
+somewhat General, and the other relating to named persons; they are
+not different in principle.  He will also show you some suggestions
+coming from some of the planters themselves.  I desire that all I
+promise in these letters, so far as practicable, may be in good faith
+carried out, and that suggestions from the planters may be heard and
+adopted, so far as they may not contravene the principles stated, nor
+justice, nor fairness, to laborers.  I do not herein intend to
+overrule your own mature judgment on any point.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL STEELE.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 3, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Ark.:
+
+Yours including address to people of Arkansas is received.  I approve
+the address and thank you for it.  Yours in relation to William M.
+Randolph also received.  Let him take the oath of December 8,
+and go to work for the new constitution, and on your notifying me of
+it, I will immediately issue the special pardon for him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 4,1864.
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Admiral Dahlgren is here, and of course is very anxious about his
+son.  Please send me at once all you know or can learn of his fate.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER IN REGARD TO THE EXPORTATION OF TOBACCO BELONGING TO THE FRENCH
+GOVERNMENT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, March 7, 1864.
+
+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 seven thousand hogsheads, and that
+it is the same tobacco respecting the exportation of which
+application Was originally made by the French government.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO UNITED STATES MARSHAL, LOUISVILLE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 7, 1864.
+
+U.S. MARSHAL, Louisville, Ky.:
+
+Until further order suspend sale of property and further proceedings
+in cases of the United States against Dr. John B. English, and S. S.
+English, qt al., sureties for John L. Hill.  Also same against same
+sureties for Thomas A. Ireland.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+MAJOR ECKERT:
+Please send the above dispatch.
+JNO. G. NICOLAY, Private Secretary
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 9, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+New York City votes ninety-five hundred majority for allowing
+soldiers to vote, and the rest of the State nearly all on the same
+side.  Tell the soldiers.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO SENATE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, March 9, 1864.
+
+TO THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO GENERAL GRANT,
+
+MARCH 9, 1864.
+
+GENERAL GRANT:--The expression of the nation's approbation of what
+you have already done, and its reliance on you for what remains to do
+in the existing great struggle, is now presented with this commission
+constituting you Lieutenant-General of the Army of the United States.
+
+With this high honor, devolves on you an additional responsibility.
+As the country herein trusts you, so, under God, it win sustain you.
+I scarcely need add, that with what I here speak for the country,
+goes my own hearty personal concurrence.
+
+
+
+GENERAL GRANT'S REPLY.
+
+Mr. PRESIDENT:--I accept this commission, with gratitude for the high
+honor conferred.
+
+With the aid of the noble armies that have fought on so many fields
+for our common country, it will be my earnest endeavor not to
+disappoint your expectations.
+
+I feel the full weight of the responsibilities now devolving on me,
+and I know that if they are met, it will be due to those armies; and
+above all, to the favor of that Providence which leads both nations
+and men.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER ASSIGNING U. S. GRANT TO THE COMMAND OF
+THE ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 10, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR MURPHY.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 12, 1864.
+GOVERNOR MURPHY, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+I am not appointing officers for Arkansas now, and I will try to
+remember your request. Do your. best to get out the largest vote
+possible, and of course as much of it as possible on the right side.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL HAHN.
+(Private.)
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 13, 1864
+
+HON. MICHAEL HAHN.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I congratulate you on having fixed your name in history
+as the first free-state governor of Louisiana.  Now, you are about to
+have a convention, which among other things will probably define the
+elective franchise.  I barely suggest for your private consideration,
+whether some of the colored people may not be let in,--as, for
+instance, the very intelligent, and especially those who have fought
+gallantly in our ranks.  They would probably help, in some trying
+time to come, to keep the jewel of liberty within the family of
+freedom.  But this is only a suggestion,--not to the public, but to
+you alone.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+CALL FOR TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND MEN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, MARCH 14, 1864.
+
+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 five hundred thousand men called for February 1,
+1864, a call is hereby made and a draft ordered for two hundred
+thousand men for the military service (Army, Navy, and Marine Corps)
+of the United States.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The Government bounties as now paid continue until April I, 1864, at
+which time the additional bounties cease.   On and after that date
+one hundred dollars bounty only will be paid, as provided by the act
+approved July 22, 1861.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+(Private.)
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 15, 1864
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+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?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PASS FOR GENERAL D. E. SICKLES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 15, 1864.
+
+WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
+
+Major-General Sickles is making a tour for me from here by way of
+Cairo, New Orleans, and returning by the gulf, and ocean, and all
+land and naval officers and, employees are directed to furnish
+reasonable transportation and other reasonable facilities to himself
+and personal staff not inconsistent with the public service.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER TO GOVERNOR HAHN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 15, 1864.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY MICHAEL HAHN, Governor of Louisiana
+
+Until further order, you are hereby invested with the powers
+exercised hitherto by the military governor of Louisiana.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REMARKS AT A FAIR IN THE PATENT OFFICE,
+
+WASHINGTON, MARCH 16, 1864.
+
+LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:
+
+I appear to say but a word.  This extraordinary war in which we are
+engaged falls heavily upon all classes of people but the most heavily
+upon the soldier.  For it has been said, "All that a man hath will he
+give for his life;" and while all contribute of their substance, the
+soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his
+country's cause.  The highest merit, then, is due to the soldier.
+
+In this extraordinary war, extraordinary developments have manifested
+themselves, such as have not been seen in former wars; and among
+these manifestations nothing has been more remarkable than these
+fairs for the relief of suffering soldiers and their families.  And
+the chief agents of these fairs are the women of America.
+
+I am not accustomed to the use of language of eulogy: I have never
+studied the art of paying compliments to women; but I must say, that
+if all that has been said by orators and poets since the creation of
+the world in praise of women were applied to the women of America, it
+would not do them justice for their conduct during this war.  I will
+close by saying, God bless the women of America.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE FROM
+THE WORKINGMEN'S ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK,
+
+MARCH 21, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN OF THE COMMITTEE:
+
+The honorary membership in your association, as generously tendered,
+is gratefully accepted.
+
+You comprehend, as your address shows, that the existing rebellion
+means more and tends to do more than the perpetuation of African
+slavery--that it is, in fact, a war upon the rights of all working
+people.  Partly to show that this view has not escaped my attention,
+and partly that I cannot better express myself, I read a passage from
+the message to Congress in December, 1861:
+
+"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 legislature, boldly advocated, with labored
+argument 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.   In my
+present position I could scarcely be justified were I to omit raising
+a warning voice against this approach of returning despotism.
+
+"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 capital on an equal
+footing, if not above labor, in the structure of government.  It is
+assumed that labor is available only in connection with capital; that
+nobody labors unless somebody 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 hire laborers, and thus induce
+them to work by their own consent or buy them, and drive them to it
+without their consent.  Having proceeded so it is naturally concluded
+that all laborers are either hired 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.  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.
+
+"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 capital and labor,
+producing mutual benefits.  The error is in assuming that the whole
+labor of a 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.
+
+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 a while, 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 touch or take aught which they have not honestly
+earned.  Let them beware of surrendering a political power 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."
+
+The views then expressed remain unchanged, nor have I much to add.
+None are so deeply interested to resist the present rebellion as the
+working people.  Let them beware of prejudices, working division and
+hostility among themselves.  The most notable feature of a
+disturbance in your city last summer was the hanging of some working
+people by other working people.   It should never be so.   The
+strongest bond of human sympathy, outside of the family relation,
+should be one uniting all working people, of all nations, and
+tongues, and kindreds.  Nor should this lead to a war upon property,
+or the owners of property.  Property is the fruit of labor; property
+is desirable; is a positive good in the world.  That some should be
+rich shows that others may become rich, and, hence, is just
+encouragement to industry and enterprise.  Let not him who is
+houseless pull down the house of another, but let him labor
+diligently and build one for himself, thus by example assuring that
+his own shall be safe from violence when built.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 22, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Hon. W. R. Morrison says he has requested you by letter to effect a
+special exchange of Lieut. Col. A. F. Rogers, of Eightieth Illinois
+Volunteers, now in Libby Prison, and I shall be glad if you can
+effect it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+CORRESPONDENCE WITH GENERAL C. SCHURZ.
+( Private.)
+
+WASHINGTON, March 13, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SCHURZ.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Yours of February 29 reached me only four days ago; but
+the delay was of little consequence, because I found, on feeling
+around, I could not invite you here without a difficulty which at
+least would be unpleasant, and perhaps would be detrimental to the
+public service.  Allow me to suggest that if you wish to remain in
+the military service, it is very dangerous for you to get temporarily
+out of it; because, with a major-general once out, it is next to
+impossible for even the President to get him in again.  With my
+appreciation of your ability and correct principle, of course I would
+be very glad to have your service for the country in the approaching
+political canvass; but I fear we cannot properly have it without
+separating you from the military.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION ABOUT AMNESTY,
+MARCH 26, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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 these benefits; and whereas the objects of that
+Proclamation were to suppress the insurrection and to restore the
+authority of the United States; and whereas the amnesty therein
+proposed by the President was offered with reference to these objects
+alone:
+
+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 offences 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.
+
+Persons excluded from the amnesty offered in the said Proclamation
+may apply to the President for clemency, like all other offenders,
+and their application will receive due consideration.
+
+I do further declare and proclaim that the oath presented 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 thereof 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 registry thereof, and will, on
+application, in proper cases, issue certificates of such records in
+the customary form of official certificates.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 28, 1864.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--The Governor of Kentucky is here, and desires to have
+the following points definitely fixed:
+
+First.  That the quotas of troops furnished, and to be furnished, by
+Kentucky may be adjusted upon the basis as actually reduced by able-
+bodied men of hers having gone into the rebel service; and that she
+be required to furnish no more than her just quotas upon fair
+adjustment upon such basis.
+
+Second.  To whatever extent the enlistment and drafting, one or both,
+of colored troops may be found necessary within the State, it may be
+conducted within the law of Congress; and, so far as practicable,
+free from collateral embarrassments, disorders, and provocations.
+
+I think these requests of the Governor are reasonable; and I shall be
+obliged if you will give him a full hearing, and do the best you can
+to effect these objects.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL G. G. MEADE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 29, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Your letter to Colonel Townsend, inclosing a slip from
+the "Herald," and asking a court of inquiry, has been laid before me
+by the Secretary of War, with the request that I would consider it.
+It is quite natural that you should feel some sensibility on the
+subject; yet I am not impressed, nor do I think the country is
+impressed, with the belief that your honor demands, or the public
+interest demands, such an inquiry.  The country knows that at all
+events you have done good service; and I believe it agrees with me
+that it is much better for you to be engaged in trying to do more,
+than to be diverted, as you necessarily would be, by a court of
+inquiry.
+
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 29,1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Captain Kinney, of whom I spoke to you as desiring to go on your
+staff, is now in your camp, in company with Mrs. Senator Dixon.  Mrs.
+Grant and I, and some others, agreed last night that I should, by
+this despatch, kindly call your attention to Captain Kinney.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO A. G. HODGES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 4, 1864.
+
+A. G. HODGES, ESQ., Frankfort, Kentucky:
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--You ask me to put in writing the substance of what I
+verbally said the other day, in your presence, to Governor Bramlette
+and Senator Dixon.  It was about as follows:
+
+"I am naturally anti-slavery.  If slavery is not wrong, nothing is
+wrong.  I cannot remember when I did not so think and feel, and yet I
+have never understood that the Presidency conferred upon me an
+unrestricted right to act officially upon this judgment and feeling.
+It was in the oath I took that I would to the best of my ability
+preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.
+I could not take the office without taking the oath.   Nor was it my
+view that I might take an oath to get power, and break the oath in
+using the power.  I understood, too, that in ordinary civil
+administration this oath even forbade me to practically indulge my
+primary abstract judgment on the moral question of slavery.  I had
+publicly declared this many times, and in many ways.  And I aver
+that, to this day, I have done no official act in mere deference to
+my abstract judgment and feeling on slavery.  I did understand,
+however, that my oath to preserve the Constitution to the best of my
+ability, imposed upon me the duty of preserving, by every
+indispensable means, that government, that nation, of which that
+Constitution was the organic law.  Was it possible to lose the nation
+and yet preserve the Constitution? By General law, life and limb must
+be protected; yet often a limb must be amputated to save a life; but
+a life is never wisely given to save a limb.  I felt that measures,
+otherwise unconstitutional, might become lawful, by becoming
+indispensable to the preservation of the Constitution, through the
+preservation of the nation.   Right or wrong, I assumed this ground,
+and now avow it.  I could not feel that to the best of my ability I
+had even tried to preserve the Constitution, if, to save slavery, or
+any minor matter, I should permit the wreck of government, country,
+and Constitution, altogether.  When, early in the war, General
+Fremont attempted military emancipation, I forbade it, because I did
+not then think it an indispensable necessity.  When, a little later,
+General Cameron, then Secretary of War, suggested the arming of the
+blacks, I objected, because I did not yet think it an indispensable
+necessity.  When, still later, General Hunter attempted military
+emancipation, I again forbade it, because I did not yet think the
+indispensable necessity had come.  When, in March, and May, and July,
+1862, I made earnest and successive appeals to the Border States to
+favor compensated emancipation, I believed the indispensable
+necessity for military emancipation and arming the blacks would come,
+unless averted by that measure.  They declined the proposition, and I
+was, in my best judgment, driven to the alternative of either
+surrendering the Union, and with it the Constitution, or of laying
+strong hand upon the colored element.   I chose the latter.  In
+choosing it, I hoped for greater gain than loss, but of this I was
+not entirely confident.  More than a year of trial now shows no loss
+by it in our foreign relations, none in our home popular sentiment,
+none in our white military force, no loss by it any how, or anywhere.
+On the contrary, it shows a gain of quite one hundred and thirty
+thousand soldiers, seamen, and laborers.  These are palpable facts,
+about which, as facts, there can be no caviling.  We have the men;
+and we could not have had them without the measure.
+
+"And now let any Union man who complains of the measure test himself
+by writing down in one line that he is for subduing the rebellion by
+force of arms; and in the next, that he is for taking these hundred
+and thirty thousand men from the Union side, and placing them where
+they would be but for the measure he condemns.  If he cannot face his
+case so stated, it is only because he cannot face the truth."
+
+I add a word which was not in the verbal conversation.  In telling
+this tale I attempt no compliment to my own sagacity.  I claim not to
+have controlled events, but confess plainly that events have
+controlled me.  Now, at the end of three years' struggle, the
+nation's condition is not what either party, or any man, devised or
+expected.  God alone can claim it.  Whither it is tending seems
+plain.  If God now wills the removal of a great wrong, and wills also
+that we of the North, as well as you of the South, shall pay fairly
+for our complicity in that wrong, impartial history will find therein
+new cause to attest and revere the justice and goodness of God.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO MRS. HORACE MANN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+April 5, 1864.
+
+MRS HORACE MANN:
+
+MADAM:--The petition of persons under eighteen, praying that I would
+free all slave children, and the heading of which petition it appears
+you wrote, was handed me a few days since by Senator Sumner.  Please
+tell these little people I am very glad their young hearts are so
+full of just and generous sympathy, and that, while I have not the
+power to grant all they ask, I trust they will remember that God has,
+and that, as it seems, he wills to do it.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, April 12, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+I am pressed to get from Libby, by special exchange, Jacob C.
+Hagenbuek, first lieutenant, Company H, Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania
+Volunteers.  Please do it if you can without detriment or
+embarrassment.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, April 17, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Private William Collins of Company B, of the Sixty-ninth New York
+Volunteers, has been convicted of desertion, and execution suspended
+as in numerous other cases.  Now Captain O'Neill, commanding the
+regiment, and nearly all its other regimental and company officers,
+petition for his full pardon and restoration to his company.  Is
+there any good objection?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LECTURE ON LIBERTY
+
+ADDRESS AT SANITARY FAIR IN BALTIMORE,
+
+APRIL 18, 1864.
+
+LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:--Calling to mind that we are in Baltimore, we
+cannot fail to note that the world moves.  Looking upon these many
+people assembled here to serve, as they best may, the soldiers of the
+Union, it occurs at once that three years ago the same soldiers could
+not so much as pass through Baltimore.  The change from then till now
+is both great and gratifying.  Blessings on the brave men who have
+wrought the change, and the fair women who strive to reward them for
+it!
+
+But Baltimore suggests more than could happen within Baltimore.  The
+change within Baltimore is part only of a far wider change.  When the
+war began, three years ago, neither party, nor any man, expected it
+would last till now.  Each looked for the end, in some way, long ere
+to-day.  Neither did any anticipate that domestic slavery would be
+much affected by the war.  But here we are; the war has not ended,
+and slavery has been much affected how much needs not now to be
+recounted.  So true is it that man proposes and God disposes.
+
+But we can see the past, though we may not claim to have directed it;
+and seeing it, in this case, we feel more hopeful and confident for
+the future.
+
+The world has never had a good definition of the word liberty, and
+the American people, just now, are much in want of one.  We all
+declare for liberty; but in using the same word we do not all mean
+the same thing.  With some the word liberty may mean for each man to
+do as he pleases with himself, and the product of his labor; while
+with others the same word may mean for some men to do as they please
+with other men, and the product of other men's labor.  Here are two,
+not only different, but incompatible things, called by the same name,
+liberty.  And it follows that each of the things is, by the
+respective parties, called by two different and incompatible names--
+liberty and tyranny.
+
+The shepherd drives the wolf from the sheep's throat, for which the
+sheep thanks the shepherd as his liberator, while the wolf denounces
+him for the same act, as the destroyer of liberty, especially as the
+sheep was a black one.  Plainly, the sheep and the wolf are not
+agreed upon a definition of the word liberty; and precisely the same
+difference prevails to-day among us human creatures, even in the
+North, and all professing to love liberty.  Hence we behold
+the process by which thousands are daily passing from under the yoke
+of bondage hailed by some as the advance of liberty, and bewailed by
+others as the destruction of all liberty.  Recently, as it seems, the
+people of Maryland have been doing something to define liberty, and
+thanks to them that, in what they have done, the wolf's dictionary
+has been repudiated.
+
+It is not very becoming for one in my position to make speeches at
+length; but there is another subject upon which I feel that I ought
+to say a word.  A painful rumor, true, I fear, has reached us, of the
+massacre, by the rebel forces at Fort Pillow, in the west end of
+Tennessee, on the Mississippi River, of some three hundred colored
+soldiers and white officers [I believe it latter turned out to be
+500], who had just been overpowered by their assailants [numbering
+5000].  There seems to be some anxiety in the public mind whether the
+Government is doing its duty to the colored soldier, and to the
+service, at this point.  At the beginning of the war, and for some
+time, the use of colored troops was not contemplated; and how the
+change of purpose was wrought I will not now take time to explain.
+Upon a clear conviction of duty I resolved to turn that element of
+strength to account; and I am responsible for it to the American
+people, to the Christian world, to history, and in my final account
+to God.  Having determined to use the negro as a soldier, there is no
+way but to give him all the protection given to any other soldier.
+The difficulty is not in stating the principle, but in practically
+applying it.  It is a mistake to suppose the Government is
+indifferent to this matter, or is not doing the best it can in regard
+to it.  We do not to-day know that a colored soldier, or white
+officer commanding colored soldiers, has been massacred by the rebels
+when made a prisoner.  We fear it, we believe it, I may say,--but we
+do not know it.  To take the life of one of their prisoners on the
+assumption that they murder ours, when it is short of certainty that
+they do murder ours, might be too serious, too cruel, a mistake.  We
+are having the Fort Pillow affair thoroughly investigated; and such
+investigation will probably show conclusively how the truth is.  If
+after all that has been said it shall turn out that there has been no
+massacre at Fort Pillow, it will be almost safe to say there has been
+none, and will be none, elsewhere.  If there has been the massacre of
+three hundred there, or even the tenth part of three hundred, it will
+be conclusively proved; and being so proved, the retribution shall as
+surely come.  It will be matter of grave consideration in what exact
+course to apply the retribution; but in the supposed case it must
+come.
+
+[There was a massacre of a black company and their officers at Fort
+Pillow--they were prisoners who later on, the day of their capture,
+were ordered executed.   The black soldiers were tied alive to
+individual planks--then man and plank were cobbled up like cord wood
+and burned.   The white officers were shot.   D.W.]
+
+
+
+
+TO CALVIN TRUESDALE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 20, 1864.
+
+CALVIN TRUESDALE, ESQ., Postmaster, Rock Island, Ill.:
+
+Thomas J. Pickett, late agent of the Quartermaster 's Department for
+the island of Rock Island, has been removed or suspended from that
+position on a charge of having sold timber and stone from the island
+for his private benefit.  Mr. Pickett is an old acquaintance and
+friend of mine, and I will thank you, if you will, to set a day or
+days and place on and at which to take testimony on the point.
+Notify Mr. Pickett and one J. B. Danforth (who, as I understand,
+makes the charge) to be present with their witnesses.  Take the
+testimony in writing offered by both sides, and report it in full to
+me.  Please do this for me.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER COMMANDING AT FORT WARREN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 20, 1864.
+
+OFFICER IN MILITARY COMMAND,
+Fort Warren, Boston Harbor, Mass.:
+
+If there is a man by the name of Charles Carpenter, under sentence of
+death for desertion, at Fort Warren, suspend execution until further
+order and send the record of his trial.  If sentenced for any other
+offence, telegraph what it is and when he is to be executed.  Answer
+at all events.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER COMMANDING AT FORT WARREN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 21,1864.
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND AT FORT WARREN,
+Boston Harbor, Mass.:
+
+The order I sent yesterday in regard to Charles Carpenter is hereby
+withdrawn and you are to act as if it never existed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL DIX.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., April 21, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL Dix, New York:
+
+Yesterday I was induced to telegraph the officer in military command
+at Fort Warren, Boston Harbor, Massachusetts, suspending the
+execution of Charles Carpenter, to be executed tomorrow for
+desertion.  Just now, on reaching your order in the case, I
+telegraphed the same officer withdrawing the suspension, and leave
+the case entirely with you.  The man's friends are pressing me, but I
+refer them to you, intending to take no further action myself.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 23, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Senator Ten Eyck is very anxious to have a, special exchange of Capt.
+Frank J. McLean, of Ninth Tennessee Cavalry now, or lately, at
+Johnson's Island, for Capt. T. Ten Eyck, Eighteenth U. S. Infantry,
+and now at Richmond.  I would like to have it done.  Can it be?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON OFFER OF TROOPS, APRIL 23, 1864.
+
+TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+1. The Governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin
+offer to the President infantry troops for the approaching campaign
+as follows: Ohio, thirty thousand; Indiana, twenty thousand;
+Illinois, twenty thousand; Iowa, ten thousand; Wisconsin, five
+thousand.
+
+2. The term of service to be one hundred days, reckoned from the date
+of muster into the service of the United States, unless sooner
+discharged.
+
+3. The troops to be mustered into the service of the United States by
+regiments, when the regiments are filled 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.
+
+4. 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.
+
+5. No bounty to be paid the troops, nor the service charged or
+credited on any draft.
+
+6. 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.
+
+JOHN BROUGH, Governor of Ohio.
+O. P. MORTON, Governor of Indiana.
+RICHARD PATES, Governor of Illinois.
+WILLIAM M. STONE, Governor of Iowa.
+JAMES T. LEWIS, Governor of Wisconsin
+
+(Indorsement.)
+
+April 23, 1864.
+
+The foregoing proposition of the governors is accepted, and the
+Secretary of War is directed to carry it into execution.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 23, 1864.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+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.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO JOHN WILLIAMS.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON CITY, April 25, 1864.
+
+JOHN WILLIAMS, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+Yours of the 15th is just received.  Thanks for your kind
+remembrance.  I would accept your offer at once, were it not that I
+fear there might be some impropriety in it, though I do not see that
+there would.  I will think of it a while.
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON CITY, April 25, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+A Mr. Corby brought you a note from me at the foot of a petition I
+believe, in the case of Dawson, to be executed to-day.  The record
+has been examined here, and it shows too strong a case for a pardon
+or commutation, unless there is something in the poor man's favor
+outside of the record, which you on the ground may know, but I do
+not.  My note to you only means that if you know of any such
+thing rendering a suspension of the execution proper, on your own
+judgment, you are at liberty to suspend it.  Otherwise I do not
+interfere.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL THOMAS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., April 26, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Chattanooga, Term.:
+
+Suspend execution of death sentence of young Perry, of Wisconsin,
+condemned for sleeping on his post, till further orders, and forward
+record for examination.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR MURPHY.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., April 27, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR MURPHY, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+I am much gratified to learn that you got out so large a vote, so
+nearly all the right way, at the late election; and not less so that
+your State government including the legislature, is organized and in
+good working order.  Whatever I can I will do to protect you;
+meanwhile you must do your utmost to protect yourselves.  Present my
+greeting to all.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS, APRIL 28, 1864.
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
+
+APRIL 28, 1864.
+
+TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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:
+
+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 the 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
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 30, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Not expecting to see you before the spring campaign opens, I wish to
+express in this way my entire satisfaction with what you have done up
+to this time, so far as I understand it.
+
+The particulars of your plans I neither know nor seek to know.  You
+are vigilant and self-reliant; and, pleased with this, I wish not to
+obtrude any restraints or constraints upon you.  While I am very
+anxious that any great disaster or capture of our men in great number
+shall be avoided, I know that these points are less likely to escape
+your attention than they would be mine.  If there be anything wanting
+which is within my power to give, do not fail to let me know it.
+
+And now, with a brave army and a just cause, may God sustain you.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
+
+MAY 2, 1864.
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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:
+[Correspondence and orders relating to the resignation and
+reinstatement of Major-General Frank P. Blair, Jr., of Missouri.]
+
+The foregoing constitutes all sought by the resolution so far as is
+remembered or has been found upon diligent search.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., May 4, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Chattanooga, Tenn.:
+
+I have an imploring appeal in behalf of the citizens who say your
+Order No.8 will compel them to go north of Nashville.  This is in no
+sense an order, nor is it even a request that you will do anything
+which in the least shall be a drawback upon your military operations,
+but anything you can do consistently with those operations for those
+suffering people I shall be glad of.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 5, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Commanding,  Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+The President directs me to inquire whether a day has yet been fixed
+for the execution of citizen Robert Louden, and if so what day?
+
+JOHN HAY,
+Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.
+
+
+
+
+TO MRS. S. B. McCONKEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 9, 1864.
+
+MRS. SARAH B. McCONKEY, West Chester, Pa.:
+
+MADAM:--Our mutual friend, Judge Lewis, tells me you do me the honor
+to inquire for my personal welfare.  I have been very anxious for
+some days in regard to our armies in the field, but am considerably
+cheered, just now, by favorable news from them.
+
+I am sure you will join me in the hope for their further success;
+while yourself, and other good mothers, wives, sisters, and
+daughters, do all you and they can, to relieve and comfort the
+gallant soldiers who compose them.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RECOMMENDATION OF THANKSGIVING.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 9, 1864
+
+TO THE FRIENDS OF UNION AND LIBERTY:
+
+Enough is known of army operations, within the last five days, to
+claim our special gratitude to God.  While what remains undone
+demands our most sincere prayers to and reliance upon Him (without
+whom all effort is 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+
+MAY 9, 1864.
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS:--I am very much obliged to you for the compliment of
+this call, though I apprehend it is owing more to the good news
+received to-day from the Army, than to a desire to see me.  I am
+indeed very grateful to the brave men who have been struggling with
+the enemy in the field, to their noble commanders who have directed
+them, and especially to our Maker.  Our commanders are following up
+their victories resolutely and successfully.  I think, without
+knowing the particulars of the plans of General Grant, that what has
+been accomplished is of more importance than at first appears.  I
+believe, I know (and am especially grateful to know) that General
+Grant has not been jostled in his purposes, that he has made all his
+points, and to-day he is on his line as he purposed before he moved
+his armies.  I will volunteer to say that I am very glad at what has
+happened, but there is a great deal still to be done.  While we are
+grateful to all the brave men and officers for the events of the past
+few days, we should, above all, be very grateful to Almighty God, who
+gives us victory.
+
+There is enough yet before us requiring all loyal men and patriots to
+perform their share of the labor and follow the example of the modest
+General at the head of our armies, and sink all personal
+consideration for the sake of the country.  I commend you to keep
+yourselves in the same tranquil mood that is characteristic of that
+brave and loyal man.  I have said more than I expected when I came
+before you.  Repeating my thanks for this call, I bid you good-bye.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL LEW WALLACE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., May 10, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL WALLACE, Baltimore:
+
+Please tell me what is the trouble with Dr. Hawks.   Also please ask
+Bishop Whittington to give me his view of the case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS,
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 11, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Complaints are coming to me of disturbances in Canoll, Platte, and
+Buchanan counties.   Please ascertain the truth, correct what is
+found wrong, and telegraph me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO P. B. LOOMIS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 12, 1864
+
+F. B. LOOMIS, ESQ.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
+communication of the 28th April, in which you offer to replace the
+present garrison at Port Trumbull with volunteers, which you propose
+to raise at your own expense.  While it seems inexpedient at this
+time to accept this proposition on account of the special duties now
+devolving upon the garrison mentioned, I cannot
+pass unnoticed such a meritorious instance of individual patriotism.
+Permit me, for the Government, to express my cordial thanks to you
+for this generous and public-spirited offer, which is worthy of note
+among the many called forth in these times of national trial.
+
+I am very truly, your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A METHODIST DELEGATION, MAY 14, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN:-In response to your address, allow me to attest the
+accuracy of its historical statements, indorse the sentiments it
+expresses, and thank you in the nation's name for the sure promise it
+gives.  Nobly sustained, as the Government has been, by all the
+churches, I would utter nothing which might in the least appear
+invidious against any.  Yet without this, it may fairly be said, that
+the Methodist Episcopal Church, not less devoted than the best, is by
+its greatest numbers the most important of all.  It is no fault in
+others that the Methodist Church sends more soldiers to the field,
+more nurses to the hospitals, and more prayers to Heaven than--any
+other.  God bless the Methodist Church Bless all the churches; and
+blessed be God, who in this our great trial giveth us the churches.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR YATES.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 18, 1864.
+
+His EXCELLENCY RICHARD YATES, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+If any such proclamation has appeared, it is a forgery.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ARREST AND IMPRISONMENT OF IRRESPONSIBLE NEWSPAPER
+REPORTERS AND EDITORS
+
+ORDER TO GENERAL J. A. DIX.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 18, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL JOHN A. DIX,
+Commanding at New York:
+
+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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+[On the morning of May 18, 3864, a forged proclamation was published
+in the World, and Journal of Commerce, of New York.  The proclamation
+named a day for fasting and prayer, called for 400,000 fresh troops,
+and purposed to raise by an "immediate and peremptory draft,"
+whatever quotas were not furnished on the day specified.   D.W.]
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL B. P. BUTLER.
+(Cipher.)
+WASHINGTON, D. C., May 18, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Bermuda Hundred, Va.:
+
+Until receiving your dispatch of yesterday, the idea of commissions
+in the volunteers expiring at the end of three years had not occurred
+to me.  I think no trouble will come of it; and, at all events, I
+shall take care of it so far as in me lies.  As to the major-
+generalships in the regular army, I think I shall not dispose of
+another, at least until the combined operations now in progress,
+under direction of General Grant, and within which yourself and
+command are included, shall be terminated.
+Meanwhile, on behalf of yourself, officers, and men, please accept my
+hearty thanks for what you and they have so far done.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE EXEMPTION OF
+AMERICAN CONSULS FROM MILITARY SERVICE,
+
+MAY 19, 1864.
+
+It is officially announced by the State Department that citizens of
+the United States holding commissions and recognized as Consuls of
+foreign powers, are not by law exempt from military service if
+drafted:
+
+Therefore the mere enrolment of a citizen holding a foreign consulate
+will not be held to vacate his commission, but if he shall be drafted
+his exequatur will be revoked unless he shall have previously
+resigned in order that another Consul may be received.
+
+An exequatur bearing date the 3d day of May, 1858, having been issued
+to Charles Hunt, a citizen of the United States, recognizing him as a
+Consul of Belgium for St.  Louis, Missouri, 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.
+
+These are therefore to declare that I no longer recognize the said
+Hunt as Consul of Belgium, for St.  Louis, Missouri, 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.
+
+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................
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR MORTON AND OTHERS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, May 21, 1864
+
+GOVERNOR O. P. MORTON:
+
+The getting forward of hundred-day troops to sustain General
+Sherman's lengthening lines promises much good.  Please put your best
+efforts into the work.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+Same to Governor Yates, Springfield, Illinois; Governor Stone,
+Davenport, Iowa; Governor Lewis, Madison, Wisconsin.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO CHRISTIANA A. SACK.
+WAR DEPARTMENT WASHINGTON, D. C., May 21, 1864
+
+CHRISTIANA A. SACK, Baltimore, Md.:
+
+I cannot postpone the execution of a convicted spy on a mere
+telegraphic despatch signed with a name I never heard before.
+General Wallace may give you a pass to see him if he chooses.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BROUGH.
+WASHINGTON CITY, May 24, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BROUGH, Columbus, Ohio:
+
+Yours to Secretary of War [received] asking for something cheering.
+We have nothing bad from anywhere.  I have just seen a despatch of
+Grant, of 11 P.M., May 23, on the North Anna and partly across it,
+which ends as follows: "Everything looks exceedingly favorable for
+us." We have nothing later from him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 25,1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Mr. J. C. Swift wishes a pass from me to follow your army to pick up
+rags and cast-off clothing.  I will give it to him if you say so,
+otherwise not.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+["No job to big or too small" for this president--not even a request
+from a Rag Picker.  D.W.]
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM CONCERNING THE TRANSPORTATION OF
+THE NEW YORK NAVAL BRIGADE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 26, 1864.
+
+WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
+
+I am again pressed with the claim of Mr. Marshall O. Roberts, for
+transportation of what was called the Naval Brigade from New York to
+Fortress Monroe.  This force was a special organization got up by one
+Bartlett, in pretended pursuance of written authority from me, but in
+fact, pursuing the authority in scarcely anything whatever.  The
+credit given him by Mr. Roberts, was given in the teeth of the
+express declaration that the Government would not be responsible for
+the class of expenses to which it belonged.  After all some part of
+the transportation became useful to the Government, and equitably
+should be paid for; but I have neither time nor means to ascertain
+this equitable amount, or any appropriation to pay it with if
+ascertained.  If the Quartermaster at New York can ascertain what
+would compensate for so much of the transportation as did result
+usefully to the Government, it might be a step towards reaching
+justice.  I write this from memory, but I believe it is substantially
+correct.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO P. A. CONKLING AND OTHERS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, June 3, 1864.
+
+HON. F. A. CONKLING AND OTHERS.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--Your letter, inviting me to be present at a mass meeting
+of loyal citizens, to be held at New York on the 4th instant, for the
+purpose of expressing gratitude to Lieutenant-General Grant for his
+signal services, was received yesterday.  It is impossible for me to
+attend.  I approve, nevertheless, of whatever may tend to strengthen
+and sustain General Grant and the noble armies now under his
+direction.  My previous high estimate of General Grant has been
+maintained and heightened by what has occurred in the remarkable
+campaign he is now conducting, while the magnitude and difficulty of
+the task before him does not prove less than I expected.  He and his
+brave soldiers are now in the midst of their great trial, and I trust
+that at your meeting you will so shape your good words that they may
+turn to men and guns, moving to his and their support.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON A LETTER TOUCHING THE
+REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION.
+
+JUNE 5, 1864.
+
+(Indorsement.)
+
+Swett is unquestionably all right.  Mr. Holt is a good man, but I had
+not heard or thought of him for Vice-President.  Wish not to
+interfere about Vice-President.  Cannot interfere about platform.
+Convention must judge for itself.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 6, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Private James McCarthy, of the One-hundred and fortieth New York
+Volunteers, is here under sentence to the Dry Tortugas for an attempt
+to desert.  His friends appeal to me and if his colonel and you
+consent, I will send him to his regiment.  Please answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS.
+WASHINGTON, June 8, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Yours of to-day received.  I am unable to conceive how a message can
+be less safe by the express than by a staff-officer.  If you send a
+verbal message, the messenger is one additional person let into the
+secret.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO THE COMMITTEE NOTIFYING PRESIDENT LINCOLN OF HIS
+RENOMINATION,
+
+JUNE 9, 1864.
+
+Mr. CHAIRMAN AND GENTLEMEN OF THE COMMITTEE:
+
+I will neither conceal my gratification nor restrain the expression
+of my gratitude that the Union people, through their convention, in
+their continued effort to save and advance the nation, have deemed me
+not unworthy to remain in my present position.  I know no reason to
+doubt that I shall accept the nomination tendered; and yet perhaps I
+should not declare definitely before reading and considering what is
+called the platform.  I will say now, however, I approve the
+declaration in favor of so amending the Constitution as to prohibit
+slavery throughout the nation.  When the people in revolt, with a
+hundred days of explicit notice that they could within those days
+resume their allegiance without the overthrow of their institution,
+and that they could not so resume it afterward, elected to stand out,
+such amendment of the Constitution as now proposed became a fitting
+and necessary conclusion to the final success of the Union cause.
+Such alone can meet and cover all cavils.  Now the unconditional
+Union men, North and South, perceive its importance and embrace it.
+In the joint names of Liberty and Union, let us labor to give it
+legal form and practical effect.
+
+
+
+
+PLATFORM OF THE UNION NATIONAL CONVENTION
+HELD IN BALTIMORE, MD., JUNE 7 AND 8, 1864.
+
+1.  Resolved, That it is the highest duty of every American citizen
+to maintain against all their enemies the integrity of the Union and
+the paramount authority of the Constitution and laws of the United
+States; and that, laying aside all differences of political opinion,
+we pledge ourselves, as Union men, animated by a common sentiment and
+aiming at a common object, to do everything in our power to aid the
+Government in quelling by force of arms the rebellion now raging
+against its authority, and in bringing to the punishment due to their
+crimes the rebels and traitors arrayed against it.
+
+2.  Resolved, That we approve the determination of the Government of
+the United States not to compromise with rebels, or to offer them any
+terms of peace, except such as may be based upon an unconditional
+surrender of their hostility and a return to their just allegiance to
+the Constitution and laws of the United States, and that we call upon
+the Government to maintain this position, and to prosecute the war
+with the utmost possible vigor to the complete suppression of the
+rebellion, in full reliance upon the self-sacrificing patriotism, the
+heroic valor, and the undying devotion of the American people to
+their Country and its free institutions.
+
+3.  Resolved, That as slavery was the cause, and now constitutes the
+strength, of this rebellion, and as it must be, always and
+everywhere, hostile to the principles of republican government,
+justice and the national safety demand its utter and complete
+extirpation from the soil of the republic; and that while we uphold
+and maintain the acts and proclamations by which the Government, in
+its own defense, has aimed a death-blow at this gigantic evil, we are
+in favor, furthermore, of such an amendment to the Constitution, to
+be made by the people in conformity with its provisions, as shall
+terminate and forever prohibit the existence of slavery within the
+limits or the jurisdiction of the United States.
+
+4.  Resolved, That the thanks of the American people are due to the
+soldiers and sailors of the Army and Navy, who have periled their
+lives in defense of their country and in vindication of the honor of
+its flag; that the nation owes to them some permanent recognition of
+their patriotism and their valor, and ample and permanent provision
+for those of their survivors who have received disabling and
+honorable wounds in the service of the country; and that the memories
+of those who have fallen in its defense shall be held in grateful and
+everlasting remembrance.
+
+5.  Resolved, That we approve and applaud the practical wisdom, the
+unselfish patriotism, and the unswerving fidelity to the Constitution
+and the principles of American liberty, with which Abraham Lincoln
+has discharged under circumstances of unparalleled difficulty the
+great duties and responsibilities of the Presidential office; that we
+approve and indorse as demanded by the emergency and essential to the
+preservation of the nation, and as within the provisions of the
+Constitution, the measures and acts which he has adopted to defend
+the nation against its open and secret foes; that we approve,
+especially, the Proclamation of Emancipation, and the employment as
+Union soldiers of men heretofore held in slavery; and that we have
+full confidence in his determination to carry these and all other
+constitutional measures essential to the salvation of the country
+into full and complete effect.
+
+6.  Resolved, That we deem it essential to the General welfare that
+harmony should prevail in the national councils, and we regard as
+worthy of public confidence and official trust those only who
+cordially indorse the principles proclaimed in these resolutions, and
+which should characterize the administration of the Government.
+
+7.  Resolved, That the Government owes to all men employed in its
+armies, without regard to distinction of color, the full protection
+of the laws of war, and that any violation of these laws, or of the
+usages of civilized nations in time of war, by the rebels now in
+arms, should be made the subject of prompt and full redress.
+
+8.  Resolved, That foreign immigration, which in the past has added
+so much to the wealth, development of resources, and increase of
+power to this nation, the asylum of the oppressed of all nations,
+should be fostered and encouraged by a liberal and just policy.
+
+9.  Resolved, That we are in favor of the speedy construction of the
+railroad to the Pacific coast.
+
+10.  Resolved, That the national faith, pledged for the redemption of
+the public debt, must be kept inviolate, and that for this purpose we
+recommend economy and rigid responsibility in the public
+expenditures, and a vigorous and just system of taxation: and that it
+is the duty of every loyal State to sustain the credit and promote
+the use of the national currency.
+
+11.  Resolved, That we approve the position taken by the Government
+that the people of the United States can never regard with
+indifference the attempt of any European power to overthrow by force
+or to supplant by fraud the institutions of any republican government
+on the Western Continent, and that they will view with extreme
+jealousy, as menacing to the peace and independence of their own
+country, the efforts of any such power to obtain new footholds for
+monarchical governments, sustained by foreign military force, in near
+proximity to the United States.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A DELEGATION FROM THE NATIONAL UNION LEAGUE,
+
+JUNE 9, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN--I can only say in response to the remarks of your
+chairman, that I am very grateful for the renewed confidence which
+has been accorded to me, both by the convention and by the National
+League.  I am not insensible at all to the personal compliment there
+is in this, yet I do not allow myself to believe that any but a small
+portion of it is to be appropriated as a personal compliment to me.
+The convention and the nation, I am assured, are alike animated by a
+higher view of the interests of the country, for the present and the
+great future, and the part I am entitled to appropriate as a
+compliment is only that part which I may lay hold of as being the
+opinion of the convention and of the League, that I am not entirely
+unworthy to be intrusted with the place I have occupied for the last
+three years.  I have not permitted myself, gentlemen, to conclude
+that I am the best man in the country; but I am reminded in this
+connection of a story of an old Dutch farmer, who remarked to a
+companion once that "it was not best to swap horses when crossing a
+stream."
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A DELEGATION FROM OHIO,
+
+JUNE 9, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--I am very much obliged to you for this compliment.  I
+have just been saying, and will repeat it, that the hardest of all
+speeches I have to answer is a serenade.  I never know what to say on
+these occasions.  I suppose that you have done me this kindness in
+connection with the action of the Baltimore convention, which has
+recently taken place, and with which, of course, I am very well
+satisfied.  What we want still more than Baltimore conventions, or
+Presidential elections, is success under General Grant.  I propose
+that you constantly bear in mind that the support you owe to the
+brave officers and soldiers in the field is of the very first
+importance, and we should therefore bend all our energies to that
+point.  Now without detaining you any longer, I propose that you help
+me to close up what I am now saying with three rousing cheers for
+General Grant and the officers and soldiers under his command.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO THE ENVOY FROM
+THE HAWAIIAN
+ISLANDS,
+
+JUNE 11, 1864.
+
+SIR:--In every light in which the State of the Hawaiian Islands can
+be contemplated, it is an object of profound interest for the United
+States.   Virtually it was once a colony.  It is now a near and
+intimate neighbor.  It is a haven of shelter and refreshment for our
+merchants, fishermen, seamen, and other citizens, when on their
+lawful occasions they are navigating the eastern seas and oceans.
+Its people are free, and its laws, language, and religion are largely
+the fruit of our own teaching and example.  The distinguished part
+which you, Mr. Minister, have acted in the history of that
+interesting country, is well known here.  It gives me pleasure to
+assure you of my sincere desire to do what I can to render now your
+sojourn in the United States agreeable to yourself, satisfactory to
+your sovereign, and beneficial to the Hawaiian people.
+
+
+
+
+REMARKS TO AN OHIO REGIMENT,
+
+JUNE 11, 1864.
+
+Soldiers! I understand you have just come from Ohio; come to help us
+in this the nation's day of trial, and also of its hopes.  I thank
+you for your promptness in responding to the call for troops.  Your
+services were never needed more than now.  I know not where you are
+going.  You may stay here and take the places of those who will be
+sent to the front, or you may go there yourselves.  Wherever you go I
+know you will do your best.  Again I thank you.  Good-by.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL L. THOMAS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 13, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Louisville, Kentucky:
+
+Complaint is made to me that in the vicinity of Henderson, our
+militia is seizing negroes and carrying them off without their own
+consent, and according to no rules whatever, except those of absolute
+violence.  I wish you would look into this and inform me, and see
+that the making soldiers of negroes is done according to the rules
+you are acting upon, so that unnecessary provocation and irritation
+be avoided.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO THOMAS WEBSTER.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., June 13, 1864.
+
+THOMAS WEBSTER, Philadelphia:
+
+Will try to leave here Wednesday afternoon, say at 4 P.M., remain
+till Thursday afternoon and then return.  This subject to events.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, June 15, 1864.  7 A.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT,
+Headquarters Army of the Potomac:
+
+I have just received your dispatch of 1 P.M. yesterday.  I begin to
+see it: you will succeed.  God bless you all.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS AT A SANITARY FAIR IN PHILADELPHIA,
+
+JUNE 16, 1864.
+
+I suppose that this toast is intended to open the way for me to say
+something.  War at the best is terrible, and this of ours in its
+magnitude and duration is one of the most terrible the world has ever
+known.  It has deranged business totally in many places, and perhaps
+in all.  It has destroyed property, destroyed life, and ruined homes.
+It has produced a national debt and a degree of taxation
+unprecedented in the history of this country.  It has caused mourning
+among us until the heavens may almost be said to be hung in black.
+And yet it continues.  It has had accompaniments not before known in
+the history of the world.  I mean the Sanitary and Christian
+Commissions, with their labors for the relief of the soldiers, and
+the Volunteer Refreshment Saloons, understood better by those who
+hear me than by myself, and these fairs, first begun at Chicago and
+next held in Boston, Cincinnati, and other cities.  The motive and
+object that lie at the bottom of them are worthy of the most that we
+can do for the soldier who goes to fight the battles of his country.
+>From the fair and tender hand of women is much, very much, done for
+the soldier, continually reminding him of the care and thought for
+him at home.  The knowledge that he is not forgotten is grateful to
+his heart.  Another view of these institutions is worthy of thought.
+They are voluntary contributions, giving proof that the national
+resources are not at all exhausted, and that the national patriotism
+will sustain us through all.  It is a pertinent question, When is
+this war to end? I do not wish to name the day when it will end, lest
+the end should not come at the given time.  We accepted this war, and
+did not begin it.  We accepted it for an object, and when that object
+is accomplished the war will end, and I hope to God that it will
+never end until that object is accomplished.  We are going through
+with our task, so far as I am concerned, if it takes us three years
+longer.  I have not been in the habit of making predictions, but I am
+almost tempted now to hazard one.  I will.  It is, that Grant is this
+evening in a position, with Meade and Hancock, of Pennsylvania,
+whence he can never be dislodged by the enemy until Richmond is
+taken.  If I shall discover that General Grant may be greatly
+facilitated in the capture of Richmond by rapidly pouring to him a
+large number of armed men at the briefest notice, will you go? Will
+you march on with him? [Cries of "Yes, yes."] Then I shall call upon
+you when it is necessary.
+
+
+
+
+TO ATTORNEY-GENERAL BATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, Jun. 24, 1864
+
+HONORABLE ATTORNEY-GENERAL.
+
+SIR:--By authority of the Constitution, and moved thereto by the
+fourth section of the act of Congress, entitled "An act making
+appropriations for the support of the army for the year ending the
+thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-five, and for other
+purposes, approved June is, 1864," I require your opinion in writing
+as to what pay, bounty, and clothing are allowed by law to persons of
+color who were free on the nineteenth day of April, 1861, and who
+have been enlisted and mustered into the military service of the
+United States between the month of December, 1862, and the sixteenth
+of June, 1864.
+
+Please answer as you would do, on my requirement, if the act of June
+15, 1864, had not been passed, and I will so use your opinion as to
+satisfy that act.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MRS. LINCOLN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 24, 1864.
+
+MES. A. LINCOLN, Boston, Massachusetts:
+All well and very warm.  Tad and I have been to General Grant's army.
+Returned yesterday safe and sound.
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS.
+WASHINGTON, June 24, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Complaint is made to me that General Brown does not do his best to
+suppress bushwhackers.  Please ascertain and report to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LETTER ACCEPTING THE NOMINATION FOR PRESIDENT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, June 27, 1864.
+
+HON. WILLIAM DENNISON AND OTHERS,
+a Committee of the Union National Convention.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--Your letter of the 14th inst.., formally notifying me
+that I have been nominated by the convention you represent for the
+Presidency of the United States for four years from the 4th of March
+next, has been received.  The nomination is gratefully accepted, as
+the resolutions of the convention, called the platform, are heartily
+approved.
+
+While the resolution in regard to the supplanting of republican
+government upon the Western Continent is fully concurred in, there
+might be misunderstanding were I not to say that the position of the
+Government in relation to the action of France in Mexico, as assumed
+through the State Department and indorsed by the convention among the
+measures and acts of the Executive, will be faithfully maintained so
+long as the state of facts shall leave that position pertinent and
+applicable.
+
+I am especially gratified that the soldier and seaman were not
+forgotten by the convention, as they forever must and will be
+remembered by the grateful country for whose salvation they devote
+their lives.
+
+Thanking you for the kind and complimentary terms in which you have
+communicated the nomination and other proceedings of the convention,
+I subscribe myself,
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL P. STEELE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, June 29, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE:
+
+I understand that Congress declines to admit to seats the persons
+sent as Senators and Representatives from Arkansas.  These persons
+apprehend that, in consequence, you may not support the new State
+government there as you otherwise would.   My wish is that you give
+that government and the people there the same support and protection
+that you would if the members had been admitted, because in no event,
+nor in any view of the case, can this do any harm, while it will be
+the best you can do toward suppressing the rebellion.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 29, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point:
+
+Dr. Worster wishes to visit you with a view of getting your
+permission to introduce into the army "Harmon's Sandal Sock." Shall I
+give him a pass for that object?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO DAVID TOD.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., June 30, 1864.
+
+HON. DAVID TOD, Youngstown, Ohio:
+I have nominated you to be Secretary of the Treasury, in place of
+Governor Chase, who has resigned.  Please come without a moment's
+delay.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. L. SCRIPPS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, July 4, 1864.
+
+To JOHN L. SCRIPPS, E5Q.
+
+DEAR SIR:--Complaint is made to me that you are using your official
+power to defeat Mr. Arnold's nomination to Congress.  I am well
+satisfied with Mr. Arnold as a member of Congress, and I do not know
+that the man who might supplant him would be as satisfactory; but the
+correct principle, I think, is that all our friends should have
+absolute freedom of choice among our friends.  My wish, therefore, is
+that you will do just as you think fit with your own suffrage in the
+case, and not constrain any of your subordinates to [do] other than
+[as] he thinks fit with his.  This is precisely the rule I inculcated
+and adhered to on my part, when a certain other nomination, now
+recently made, was being canvassed for.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. W. GARRETT.
+WASHINGTON, July 5, 1864.
+
+J. W. GARRETT, President [B. & 0.  R. R.], Camden Station:
+
+You say telegraphic communication is re-established with Sandy Hook.
+Well, what does Sandy Hook say about operations of enemy and of Sigel
+during to-day?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FROM SECRETARY STANTON TO GOVERNOR SEYMOUR.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, July 5, 1864.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY HORATIO SEYMOUR,
+Governor of New York, Albany:
+
+The President directs me to inform you that a rebel force, variously
+estimated at from fifteen to twenty thousand men, have invaded the
+State of Maryland, and have taken Martinsburg and Harper's Ferry, and
+are threatening other points; that the public safety requires him to
+call upon the State executives for a militia force to repel this
+invasion.  He therefore directs me to call on you for a militia force
+of twelve thousand men from your State to serve not more than one
+hundred days, and to request that you will with the utmost despatch
+forward the troops to Washington by rail or steamboat as may be most
+expeditious.
+
+Please favor me with an answer at your earliest convenience.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION
+SUSPENDING THE WRIT OF HABEAS CORPUS,
+
+JULY 5, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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 power vested in
+the marshals by law; and
+
+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 insurrections and rebellion; and
+
+Whereas, the Congress of the United States, by an act approved on the
+third 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 habeas corpus in any case throughout the United
+States, or any part thereof; and
+
+Whereas, the said insurrection and rebellion still continue,
+endangering the existence of the Constitution and Government of the
+United States; and
+
+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
+
+Whereas, on the fifteenth day of September last, the President of the
+United States duly issued his proclamation, wherein he declared that
+the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus should be suspended
+throughout the United States, in Cases whereby the authority of the
+President of the United States, the 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 and regulations prescribed for the military and
+naval service by authority of the President of the United States, or
+for resisting a draft, or for any other offence against the military
+or naval service; and
+
+Whereas, many citizens of the State of Kentucky have joined the
+forces of the insurgents, who 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 the State; and
+
+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 the 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.
+
+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 habeas
+corpus 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 declared therein.  I do therefore hereby require of the
+military officers of the said State that the privilege of the habeas
+corpus 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 as military officers,
+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.  The martial laws 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.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+Done at the City of Washington this 5th day of July, in the year of
+our Lord 1864, and of the independence of the United States the
+eighty-eighth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION FOR A DAY OF PRAYER, JULY 7, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+Whereas, the Senate and House of Representatives at their last
+session adopted a concurrent resolution, which was approved on the
+second day of July instant, and which `was in the words following,
+namely:
+
+That the President of the United States be requested to appoint a day
+of 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 conscience 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.
+
+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
+resolutions, 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.
+
+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 other loyal and
+law-abiding people of the United States, to assemble in their
+preferred places of public worship on that day, and there to render
+to the Almighty and merciful Ruler of the Universe, such homage 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.
+
+In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.  Done at the city of Washington
+this seventh day of July, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight
+hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United States
+the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING A BILL "TO GUARANTEE TO CERTAIN STATES, WHOSE
+GOVERNMENTS HAVE BEEN USURPED OR OVERTHROWN, A REPUBLICAN FORM OF
+GOVERNMENT," AND CONCERNING RECONSTRUCTION,
+
+JULY 8, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+Whereas, the said bill was presented to the President of the United
+States for his approval less than one hour before the sine die
+adjournment of said session, and was not signed by him; and
+
+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:
+
+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 States and the people thereof shall have sufficiently
+returned to their obedience to the Constitution and the laws of the
+United States, in which cases militia-governors will be appointed
+with directions to proceed according to the bill.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed..............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TO HORACE GREELEY.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+July 9, 1864
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY.
+
+DEAR SIR:--Your letter of the 7th, with inclosures, received.
+
+If you can find any person, anywhere, professing to have any
+proposition of Jefferson Davis in writing, for peace, embracing the
+restoration of the Union and abandonment of slavery, whatever else it
+embraces, say to him he may come to me with you; and that if he
+really brings such proposition, he shall at the least have safe
+conduct with the paper (and without publicity, if he chooses) to the
+point where you shall have to meet him.  The same if there be two or
+more persons.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. W. GARRETT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., July 9, 1864
+
+J. W. GARRETT, Camden Station:
+
+What have you heard about a battle at Monocacy to-day? We have
+nothing about it here except what you say.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM GENERAL HALLECK
+TO GENERAL WALLACE.
+WASHINGTON, July 9, 1864.  11.57 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL L. WALLACE, Commanding Middle Department:
+
+I am directed by the President to say that you will rally your forces
+and make every possible effort to retard the enemy's march on
+Baltimore.
+
+H. W. HALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO T. SWAN AND OTHERS.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., July 10, 1864.  9.20 A.M.
+
+THOMAS SWAN AND OTHERS, Baltimore, Maryland:
+
+Yours of last night received.  I have not a single soldier but whom
+is being disposed by the military for the best protection of all.  By
+latest accounts the enemy is moving on Washington.  They cannot fly
+to either place.  Let us be vigilant, but keep cool.  I hope neither
+Baltimore nor Washington will be sacked.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON CITY, July TO, 1864.2 P.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Your dispatch to General Halleck, referring to what I may think in
+the present emergency, is shown me.   General Halleck says we have
+absolutely no force here fit to go to the field.  He thinks that with
+the hundred-day men and invalids we have here we can defend
+Washington, and, scarcely, Baltimore.  Besides these there are about
+eight thousand, not very reliable, under Howe, at Harper's Ferry with
+Hunter approaching that point very slowly, with what number I suppose
+you know better than I. Wallace, with some odds and ends, and part of
+what came up with Ricketts, was so badly beaten yesterday at
+Monocacy, that what is left can attempt no more than to defend
+Baltimore.  What we shall get in from Pennsylvania and New York will
+scarcely be worth counting, I fear.  Now, what I think is, that you
+should provide to retain your hold where you are, certainly, and
+bring the rest with you personally, and make a vigorous effort to
+destroy the enemy's forces in this vicinity.  I think there is really
+a fair chance to do this, if the movement is prompt.  This is what I
+think upon your suggestion, and is not an order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, July 11, 1864.  8 A.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Yours of 10.30 P.M. yesterday received, and very satisfactory.  The
+enemy will learn of Wright's arrival, and then the difficulty will be
+to unite Wright and Hunter south of the enemy before he will recross
+the Potomac.  Some firing between Rockville and here now.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., July 12, 1864.  11.30 AM.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Vague rumors have been reaching us for two or three days that
+Longstreet's corps is also on its way [to] this vicinity.  Look out
+for its absence from your front.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM AND LETTER TO HORACE GREELEY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, July 12, 1864.
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY, New York:
+
+I suppose you received my letter of the 9th.  I have just received
+yours of the 13th, and am disappointed by it.  I was not expecting
+you to send me a letter, but to bring me a man, or men.  Mr. Hay goes
+to you with my answer to yours of the 13th.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+[Carried by Major John Hay.]
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, JULY 15, 1864.
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:-Yours of the 13th is just received, and I am
+disappointed that you have not already reached here with those
+commissioners, if they would consent to come on being shown my letter
+to you of the 9th instant.  Show that and this to them, and if they
+will come on the terms stated in the former, bring them.  I not only
+intend a sincere effort for peace, but I intend that you shall be a
+personal witness that it is made.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+SAFE CONDUCT FOR CLEMENT C. CLAY AND OTHERS,
+
+JULY 16, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+By order of the President:
+JOHN HAY, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+[WASHINGTON] July 17.  1864.  11.25 A.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+In your dispatch of yesterday to General Sherman, I find the
+following, to wit:
+
+"I shall make a desperate effort to get a position here, which will
+hold the enemy without the necessity of so many men."
+
+Pressed as we are by lapse of time I am glad to hear you say this;
+and yet I do hope you may find a way that the effort shall not be
+desperate in the sense of great loss of life.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+President.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL D. HUNTER
+WASHINGTON JULY 17, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HUNTER, Harper's Ferry, West Va.
+
+Yours of this morning received.   You misconceive.  The order you
+complain of was only nominally mine, and was framed by those who
+really made it with no thought of making you a scapegoat.  It seemed
+to be General Grant's wish that the forces under General Wright and
+those under you should join and drive at the enemy under General
+Wright.  Wright had the larger part of the force, but you had the
+rank.  It was thought that you would prefer Crook's commanding your
+part to your serving in person under Wright.  That is all of it.
+General Grant wishes you to remain in command of the department, and
+I do not wish to order otherwise.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, July 18, 1864.  11.25 A.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Chattahoochee River, Georgia:
+
+I have seen your despatches objecting to agents of Northern States
+opening recruiting stations near your camps.  An act of Congress
+authorizes this, giving the appointment of agents to the States, and
+not to the Executive Government.  It is not for the War Department,
+or myself, to restrain or modify the law, in its execution, further
+than actual necessity may require.  To be candid, I was for the
+passage of the law, not apprehending at the time that it would
+produce such inconvenience to the armies in the field as you now
+cause me to fear.  Many of the States were very anxious for it, and I
+hoped that, with their State bounties, and active exertions, they
+would get out substantial additions to our colored forces, which,
+unlike white recruits, help us where they come from, as well as where
+they go to.  I still hope advantage from the law; and being a law, it
+must be treated as such by all of us.  We here will do what we
+consistently can to save you from difficulties arising out of it.
+May I ask, therefore, that you will give your hearty co-operation.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANNOUNCEMENT CONCERNING TERMS OF PEACE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, July 18, 1864.
+
+TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CALLING FOR FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND VOLUNTEERS,
+
+JULY 18, 1864,
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+Whereas the new enrolment 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:
+
+Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States,
+do issue this my last call for five hundred thousand volunteers for
+the military service:  Provided, nevertheless, That this call shall
+be reduced by all credits which may be established under section
+eight 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 services for which they enlist.
+
+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.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the City of Washington, this i8th day of July, A.D. 1864, and
+of the independence of the United States the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, July 20, 1864.  4.30 p.m.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Yours of yesterday, about a call for three hundred thousand, is
+received.  I suppose you had not seen the call for five hundred
+thousand, made the day before, and which, I suppose, covers the case.
+Always glad to have your suggestions.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. L. WRIGHT.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, JULY. 20, 1864.
+
+J. L. WRIGHT, Indianapolis, Ind.:
+
+All a mistake.  Mr. Stanton has not resigned.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL D. HUNTER.
+(Cipher.)
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, JULY 23, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HUNTER, Harper's Ferry, West Va.
+
+Are you able to take care of the enemy, when he turns back upon you,
+as he probably will on finding that Wright has left?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR CURTIN, ENCLOSING A LETTER TO WILLIAM O. SNIDER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, July 25, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR CURTIN:
+
+Herewith is the manuscript letter for the gentleman who sent me a
+cane through your hands.  For my life I cannot make out his name; and
+therefore I cut it from his letter and pasted it on, as you see.  I
+suppose [sic] will remember who he is, and I will thank you to
+forward him the letter.  He dates his letter at Philadelphia.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, ,July 25, 1864.
+
+WILLIAM O. SNIDER:
+
+The cane you did me the honor to present through Governor Curtin was
+duly placed in my hand by him.  Please accept my thanks; and, at the
+same time, pardon me for not having sooner found time to tender them.
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FROM JOHN HAY TO J. C. WELLING.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON.
+July 25, 1864.
+
+J. C. WELLING, ESQ.
+
+SIR:--According to the request contained in your note, I have placed
+Mr. Gibson's letter of resignation in the hands of the President.  He
+has read the letter, and says he accepts the resignation, as he will
+be glad to do with any other, which may be tendered, as this is, for
+the purpose of taking an attitude of hostility against him.
+
+He says he was not aware that he was so much indebted to Mr. Gibson
+for having accepted the office at first, not remembering that he ever
+pressed him to do so, or that he gave it otherwise than as was usual,
+upon request made on behalf of Mr. Gibson.
+
+He thanks Mr. Gibson for his acknowledgment that he has been treated
+with personal kindness and consideration, and says he knows of but
+two small drawbacks upon Mr. Gibson's right to still receive such
+treatment, one of which is that he never could learn of his giving
+much attention to the duties of his office, and the other is this
+studied attempt of Mr. Gibson's to stab him.
+
+I am very truly,
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+JOHN HAY.
+
+
+
+
+TO COLONEL, FIRST N. Y. VETERAN CAVALRY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, JULY 25, 1864.
+
+Thomas Connor, a private in the First Veteran New York Cavalry, is
+now imprisoned at hard labor for desertion.  If the Colonel of said
+Regiment will say in writing on this sheets that he is willing to
+receive him back to the Regiment, I will pardon, and send him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, July 26, 1864. 2.30 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, near Atlanta:
+
+I have just seen yours complaining of the appointment of Hovey and
+Osterhaus.  The point you make is unquestionably a good one, and yet
+please hear a word from us.  My recollection is that both General
+Grant and yourself recommended both H [ovey] and O [sterhaus] for
+promotion, and these, with other strong recommendations, drew
+committals from us which we could neither honorably or safely
+disregard.  We blamed H [ovey] for coming away in the manner in which
+he did, but he knew he had apparent reason to feel disappointed and
+mortified, and we felt it was not best to crush one who certainly had
+been a good soldier.  As to [Osterhaus], we did not know of his
+leaving at the time we made the appointment, and do not now know the
+terms on which he left.  Not to have appointed him, as the case
+appeared to us at the time, would have been almost, if not quite, a
+violation of our word.  The word was given on what we thought was
+high merit and somewhat on his nationality.  I beg you to believe we
+do not act in a spirit of disregarding merit.  We expect to await
+your programme for further changes and promotions in your army.  My
+profoundest thanks to you and your whole army for the present
+campaign so far.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FROM SECRETARY STANTON TO GENERAL HALLECK.
+
+WASHINGTON CITY,
+July 27, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HALLECK,
+Chief of Staff of the Army:
+
+GENERAL:--Lieutenant-General Grant having signified that, owing to
+the difficulties and delay of communication between his headquarters
+and Washington, it is necessary that in the present emergency
+military orders must be issued directly from Washington, the
+President directs me to instruct you that all the military operations
+for the defense of the Middle Department, the Department of the
+Susquehanna, the Department of Washington, and the Department of West
+Virginia, and all the forces in those departments, are placed under
+your general command, and that you will be expected to take all
+military measures necessary for defense against any attack of the
+enemy and for his capture and destruction.  You will issue from time
+to time such orders to the commanders of the respective departments
+and to the military authorities therein as may be proper.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+WASHINGTON, July 27, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR JOHNSON, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Yours in relation to General A. C. Gillam just received.  Will look
+after the matter to-day.
+
+I also received yours about General Carl Schurz.  I appreciate him
+certainly, as highly as you do; but you can never know until you have
+the trial, how difficult it is to find a place for an officer of so
+high rank when there is no place seeking him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO Mrs. ANNE WILLIAMSON,
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+July 29, 1864.
+
+Mrs. ANNE WILLIAMSON.
+
+MADAM:--The plaid you send me is just now placed in my hands.  I
+thank you for that pretty and useful present, but still more for
+those good wishes for myself and our country, which prompted you to
+present it.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT, AUGUST 3, 1864.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, August 2, 1864.
+
+MR. PRESIDENT:--This note will introduce to you Mr. Schley of
+Baltimore, who desires to appeal to you for the revocation of an
+order of General Hunter, removing some persons, citizens of
+Frederick, beyond his lines, and imprisoning others.  This Department
+has no information of the reasons or proofs on which General Hunter
+acts, and I do not therefore feel at liberty to suspend or interfere
+with his action except under your direction.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+[Indorsement.)
+
+August 3, 1864.
+
+The Secretary of War will suspend the order of General Hunter
+mentioned within, until further order and direct him to send to the
+Department a brief report of what is known against each one proposed
+to be dealt with.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U, S. GRANT.
+(Cipher.)
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C..  August 3, 1864
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+I have seen your despatch in which you say, "I want Sheridan put in
+command of all the troops in the field, with instructions to put
+himself south of the enemy, and follow him to the death.  Wherever
+the enemy goes, let our troops go also."
+
+This, I think, is exactly right as to how our forces should move; but
+please look over the despatches you may have received from here, ever
+since you made that order, and discover, if you can, that there is
+any idea in the head of any one here of "putting our army south of
+the enemy," or of following him to the "death," in any direction.  I
+repeat to you, it will neither be done nor attempted, unless you
+watch it every day and hour, and force it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+[Here the President was mistaken in thinking that Sherman and Grant
+had the same inability of most of his previous general officers.   No
+one needed to watch Grant or Sherman, they only needed to get out of
+their way.  D.W.]
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HORACE GREELEY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 6, 1864
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY, New York:
+
+Yours to Major Hay about publication of our correspondence received.
+With the suppression of a few passages in your letters in regard to
+which I think you and I would not disagree, I should be glad of the
+publication.  Please come over and see me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HORACE GREELEY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 8, 1864
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY, New York:
+
+I telegraphed you Saturday.  Did you receive the despatch? Please
+answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ON DISLOYAL FAMILY MEMBER
+
+TO GENERAL S. O. BURBRIDGE.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+August 8, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURBRIDGE, Lexington, Ky.:
+
+Last December Mrs. Emily T. Helm, half-sister of Mrs. Lincoln, and
+widow of the rebel general, Ben Hardin Helm, stopped here on her way
+from Georgia to Kentucky, and I gave her a paper, as I remember, to
+protect her against the mere fact of her being General Helm's widow.
+I hear a rumor to-day that you recently sought to arrest her, but
+were prevented by her presenting the paper from me.  I do not intend
+to protect her against the consequences of disloyal words or acts,
+spoken or done by her since her return to Kentucky, and if the paper
+given her by me can be construed to give her protection for such
+words and acts, it is hereby revoked pro tanto.  Deal with her for
+current conduct just as you would with any other.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., August 14, 1864.  1.30 P.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+The Secretary of War and I concur that you had better confer with
+General Lee, and stipulate for a mutual discontinuance of house-
+burning and other destruction of private property.  The time and
+manner of conference and particulars of stipulation we leave, on our
+part, to your convenience and judgment.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., August 15,1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, near Atlanta, Ga.:
+
+If the Government should purchase, on its own account, cotton
+northward of you, and on the line of your communications, would it be
+an inconvenience to you, or detriment to the military service, for it
+to come to the north on the railroad?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INTERVIEW WITH JOHN T. MILLS,
+
+AUGUST [15?], 1864.
+
+
+Mr. President," said Governor Randall, "why can't you seek seclusion,
+and play hermit for a fortnight? It would reinvigorate you."
+
+"Ah," said the President, "two or three weeks would do me no good.  I
+cannot fly from my thoughts--my solicitude for this great country
+follows me wherever I go.  I do not think it is personal vanity or
+ambition, though I am not free from these infirmities, but I cannot
+but feel that the weal or woe of this great nation will be decided in
+November.  There is no program offered by any wing of the Democratic
+party but that must result in the permanent destruction of the Union.
+
+"But, Mr. President, General McClellan is in favor of crushing out
+this rebellion by force.  He will be the Chicago candidate."
+
+"Sir, the slightest knowledge of arithmetic will prove to any man
+that the rebel armies cannot be destroyed by Democratic strategy.  It
+would sacrifice all the white men of the North to do it.  There are
+now in the service of the United States nearly one hundred and fifty
+thousand able-bodied colored men, most of them under arms, defending
+and acquiring Union territory.  The Democratic strategy demands that
+these forces be disbanded, and that the masters be conciliated by
+restoring them to slavery.  The black men who now assist Union
+prisoners to escape are to be converted into our enemies, in the vain
+hope of gaining the good-will of their masters.  We shall have to
+fight two nations instead of one.
+
+"You cannot conciliate the South if you guarantee to them ultimate
+success; and the experience of the present war proves their success
+is inevitable if you fling the compulsory labor of millions of black
+men into their side of the scale.  Will you give our enemies such
+military advantages as insure success, and then depend on coaxing,
+flattery, and concession to get them back into the Union? Abandon all
+the posts now garrisoned by black men, take one hundred and fifty
+thousand men from our side and put them in the battle-field or corn-
+field against us, and we would be compelled to abandon the war in
+three weeks.
+
+"We have to hold territory in inclement and sickly places; where are
+the Democrats to do this? It was a free fight, and the field was open
+to the war Democrats to put down this rebellion by fighting against
+both master and slave, long before the present policy was
+inaugurated.
+
+"There have been men base enough to propose to me to return to
+slavery the black warriors of Port Hudson and Olustee, and thus win
+the respect of the masters they fought.  Should I do so, I should
+deserve to be damned in time and eternity.  Come what will, I will
+keep my faith with friend and foe.  My enemies pretend I am now
+carrying on this war for the sole purpose of abolition.  So long as I
+am President, it shall be carried on for the sole purpose of
+restoring the Union.  But no human power can subdue this rebellion
+without the use of the emancipation policy, and every other policy
+calculated to weaken the moral and physical forces of the rebellion.
+
+"Freedom has given us one hundred and fifty thousand men, raised on
+Southern soil.  It will give us more yet.  Just so much it has
+subtracted from the enemy, and, instead of alienating the South,
+there are now evidences of a fraternal feeling growing up between our
+men and the rank and file of the rebel soldiers.  Let my enemies
+prove to the country that the destruction of slavery is not necessary
+to a restoration of the Union.  I will abide the issue."
+
+
+
+
+ENDORSEMENT OF APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT,
+AUGUST 15, 1864.
+
+I am always for the man who wishes to work; and I shall be glad for
+this man to get suitable employment at Cavalry Depot, or elsewhere
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO H. J. RAYMOND.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, August 15, 1864
+
+HON. HENRY J. RAYMOND.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have proposed to Mr. Greeley that the Niagara
+correspondence be published, suppressing only the parts of his
+letters over which the red pencil is drawn in the copy which I
+herewith send.  He declines giving his consent to the publication of
+his letters unless these parts be published with the rest.  I have
+concluded that it is better for me to submit, for the time, to the
+consequences of the false position in which I consider he has placed
+me, than to subject the country to the consequences of publishing
+these discouraging and injurious parts.  I send you this, and the
+accompanying copy, not for publication, but merely to explain to you,
+and that you may preserve them until their proper time shall come.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 17, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+I have seen your despatch expressing your unwillingness to break your
+hold where you are.  Neither am I willing.  Hold on with a bulldog
+grip, and chew and choke as much as possible.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING COMMERCIAL REGULATIONS,
+AUGUST 18, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.  Done at the city of Washington,
+this eighteenth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United
+States of America, the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT CONCERNING AN EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS, AUGUST 18, 1864.
+
+If General Hitchcock can effect a special exchange of Thomas D.
+Armesy, now under conviction as a spy, or something of the sort, and
+in prison at for Major Nathan Goff, made a prisoner of war, and now
+in prison at Richmond, let it be done.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO THE 164TH OHIO REGIMENT,
+
+AUGUST 18, 1864.
+
+SOLDIERS:--You are about to return to your homes and your friends,
+after having, as I learn, performed in camp a comparatively short
+term of duty in this great contest.  I am greatly obliged to you, and
+to all who have come forward at the call of their country.  I wish it
+might be more generally and universally understood what the country
+is now engaged in.  We have, as all will agree, a free government,
+where every man has a right to be equal with every other man.  In
+this great struggle, this form of government and every form of human
+right is endangered if our enemies succeed.  There is more involved
+in this contest than is realized by every one.  There is involved in
+this struggle, the question whether your children and my children
+shall enjoy the privileges we have enjoyed.  I say this, in order to
+impress upon you, if you are not already so impressed, that no small
+matter should divert us from our great purpose.
+
+There may be some inequalities in the practical application of our
+system.  It is fair that each man shall pay taxes in exact proportion
+to the value of his property; but if we should wait, before
+collecting a tax, to adjust the taxes upon each man in exact
+proportion with every other man, we should never collect any tax at
+all.  There may be mistakes made sometimes; and things may be done
+wrong, while the officers of the Government do all they can to
+prevent mistakes.  But I beg of you, as citizens of this great
+Republic, not to let your minds be carried off from the great work we
+have before us.  This struggle is too large for you to be diverted
+from it by any small matter.  When you return to your homes, rise up
+to the height of a generation of men worthy of a free government, and
+we will carry out the great work we have commenced.  I return to you
+my sincere thanks, soldiers, for the honor you have done me this
+afternoon.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., August 20, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Bermuda Hundred, Va.:
+
+Please allow Judge Snead to go to his family on Eastern Shore, or
+give me some good reason why not.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO THE 166TH OHIO REGIMENT,
+
+AUGUST 22, 1864.
+
+SOLDIERS--I suppose you are going home to see your families and
+friends.  For the services you have done in this great struggle in
+which we are engaged, I present you sincere thanks for myself and the
+country.
+
+I almost always feel inclined, when I say anything to soldiers, to
+impress upon them, in a few brief remarks, the importance of success
+in this contest.  It is not merely for the day, but for all time to
+come, that we should perpetuate for our children's children that
+great and free government which we have enjoyed all our lives.  I beg
+you to remember this, not merely for my sake, but for yours.  I
+happen, temporarily, to occupy this big White House.  I am a living
+witness that any one of your children may look to come here as my
+father's child has.  It is in order that each one of you may have,
+through this free government which we have enjoyed, an open field,
+and a fair chance for your industry, enterprise, and intelligence;
+that you may all have equal privileges in the race of life with all
+its desirable human aspirations--it is for this that the struggle
+should be maintained, that we may not lose our birthrights--not only
+for one, but for two or three years, if necessary.  The nation is
+worth fighting for, to secure such an inestimable jewel.
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+August 23, 1864.
+
+This morning, as for some days past, it seems exceedingly probable
+that this administration will not be re-elected.  Then it will be my
+duty to so co-operate with the President-elect as to save the Union
+between the election and the inauguration; as he will have secured
+his election on such ground that he cannot possibly save it
+afterward.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 26, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR JOHNSON, Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+Thanks to General Gillam for making the news and also to you for
+sending it.  Does Joe Heiskell's "walking to meet us" mean any more
+than that "Joe" was scared and wanted to save his skin?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO B. H. BREWSTER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., August 30,1864.
+
+HON. B. H. BREWSTER, Astor House, New York:
+
+Your letter of yesterday received.  Thank you for it.  Please have no
+fears.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING COTTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, August 31, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO COLONEL HUIDEKOPER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+SEPTEMBER 1, 1864
+
+COLONEL H. C. HUIDEKOPER, Meadville, Penn.
+
+SIR:  It is represented to me that there are at Rock Island,
+Illinois, as rebel prisoners of war, many persons of Northern and
+foreign birth who are unwilling to be exchanged and sent South, but
+who wish to take the oath of allegiance and enter the military
+service of the Union.  Colonel Huidekoper, on behalf of the people of
+some parts of Pennsylvania, wishes to pay the bounties the Government
+would have to pay to proper persons of this class, have them enter
+the service of the United States, and be credited to the localities
+furnishing the bounty money.  He will therefore proceed to Rock
+Island, ascertain the names of such persons (not including any who
+have attractions Southward), and telegraph them to the Provost-
+Marshal-General here, whereupon direction will be given to discharge
+the persons named upon their taking the oath of allegiance; and then
+upon the official evidence being furnished that they shall have been
+duly received and mustered into the service of the United States,
+their number will be credited as may be directed by Colonel
+Huidekoper.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OF THANKSGIVING,
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON CITY,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+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 worship in the United
+States, thanksgivings be offered to Him for His mercy in preserve our
+national existence against the insurgent rebels who have been waging
+a cruel war against the Government of the United States for its
+overthrow, and also that prayer be made for 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
+blessings 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDERS OF GRATITUDE AND REJOICING.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+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
+power 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+Ordered:  First, That on Monday, the fifth day of September,
+commencing at the hour of twelve o'clock noon, there shall be given a
+salute of one hundred 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 the Secretary of the Navy will issue the
+necessary directions in their respective departments for the
+execution of this order.
+
+Second, That on Wednesday, the 7th of September, commencing at the
+hour of twelve o'clock noon, there shall be fired a salute of one
+hundred guns at the arsenal at Washington, and at New York, Boston,
+Philadelphia, Baltimore, Pittsburg, Newport (Ky.), and St.  Louis,
+and New Orleans, Mobile, and Pensacola, Hilton Head, and Newbern, 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 for the capture of Atlanta.  The Secretary of War will
+issue directions for the execution of this order.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+President Of the United States.
+
+
+
+
+TO MRS. GURNEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, SEPTEMBER 4, 1864.
+
+ELIZA P. GURNEY.
+
+MY ESTEEMED FRIEND:--I have not forgotten probably never shall forget
+the very impressive occasion when yourself and friends visited me on
+a Sabbath forenoon two years ago--nor has your kind letter, written
+nearly a year later, even been for gotten.  In all, it has been your
+purpose to strengthen my reliance on God.  I am much indebted to the
+good Christian people of the country for their constant prayer and
+consolations; and to no one of them, more than to yourself.  The
+purposes of the Almighty are perfect, and must prevail, though we
+erring mortals may fail to accurately perceive them in advance.  We
+hoped for a happy termination of this terrible war long before this;
+but God knows best, and has ruled otherwise.  We shall yet
+acknowledge His wisdom, and our own error therein.  Mean while we
+must work earnestly in the best light He gives us, trusting that so
+working still conduces to the great ends He ordains.  Surely He
+intends some great good to follow this mighty convulsion, which no
+mortal could make, and no mortal could stay.
+
+Your people--the Friends--have had, and are having, a very great
+trial.  On principle, and faith, opposed to both war and oppression,
+they can only practically oppose oppression by war.  For those
+appealing to me on conscientious grounds, I have done, and shall do,
+the best I could and can, in my own conscience, under my oath to the
+law.  That you believe this I doubt not, and believing it, I shall
+still receive, for our country and myself your earnest prayers to our
+Father in Heaven.
+
+Your sincere friend,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE OF COLORED PEOPLE FROM BALTIMORE WHO PRESENTED
+HIM WITH A BIBLE,
+
+SEPTEMBER 7, 1864.
+
+I can only say now, as I have often said before, it has always been a
+sentiment with me, that all mankind should be free.  So far as I have
+been able, so far as came within my sphere, I have always acted as I
+believed was just and right, and done all I could for the good of
+mankind. I have, in letters sent forth from this office, expressed
+myself better than I can now.
+
+In regard to the great Book, I have only to say it is the best gift
+which God has ever given to man.  All the good from the Saviour of
+the world is communicated to us through this book.  But for that
+Book, we could not know right from wrong.  All those things desirable
+to man are contained in it.  I return you sincere thanks for this
+very elegant copy of this great Book of God which you present.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR PICKERING.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 8, 1864:
+
+GOVERNOR PICKERING, Olympia, W. T.:
+
+Your patriotic despatch of yesterday received and will be published.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER OF THANKS TO HUNDRED-DAY TROOPS FROM OHIO.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON CITY, September 10, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 12, 1864.
+
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Sheridan and Early are facing each other at a dead-lock.  Could we
+not pick up a regiment here and there, to the number of say ten
+thousand men, and quietly but suddenly concentrate them at Sheridan's
+camp and enable him to make a strike?
+
+This is but a suggestion.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO JAMES G. BLAINE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., September 13, 1864.
+
+HON. J. G. BLAINE, Augusta, Me.:
+On behalf of the Union, thanks to Maine.  Thanks to you personally
+for sending the news.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+P. S.--Send same to L. B. Smith and M. A. Blanchard, Portland, Me.
+A. L.
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, September 13, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Saint Louis:
+
+Postpone the execution of S. H. Anderson for two weeks.  Hear what
+his friends can say in mitigation and report to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+MAJOR ECKERT:
+Please send the above telegram.
+
+JNO. G. NICOLAY, Private Secretary.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SLOUGH.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 16, 1864.
+
+GENERAL SLOUGH, Alexandria, Va.:
+
+On the 14th I commuted the sentence of Conley, but fearing you may
+not have received notice I send this.  Do not execute him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 17,1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Atlanta, Georgia:
+
+I feel great interest in the subjects of your despatch mentioning
+corn and sorghum, and the contemplated visit to you.
+
+A. LINCOLN, President of the United States.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, September 19, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN:
+
+The State election of Indiana occurs on the 11th of October, and the
+loss of it to the friends of the Government would go far towards
+losing the whole Union cause.  The bad effect upon the November
+election, and especially the giving the State government to those who
+will oppose the war in every possible way, are too much to risk if it
+can be avoided.  The draft proceeds, notwithstanding its strong
+tendency to lose us the State.  Indiana is the only important State
+voting in October whose soldiers cannot vote in the field.  Anything
+you can safely do to let her soldiers or any part of them go home and
+vote at the State election will be greatly in point.  They need not
+remain for the Presidential election, but may return to you at once.
+This is in no sense an order, but is merely intended to impress you
+with the importance to the Army itself of your doing all you safely
+can, yourself being the judge of what you can safely do.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT CONCERNING AN EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS, SEPTEMBER 1864.
+
+The writer of this, who appeals for his brother, is our minister to
+Ecuador, and whom, if at all compatible, I would like to have obliged
+by a special exchange of his brother.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL P. SHERIDAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, September 20, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERIDAN, Winchester, Va.:
+
+Have just heard of your great victory.  God bless you all, officers
+and men.  Strongly inclined to come up and See you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL HITCHCOCK,
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 21, 1864.
+
+GENERAL HITCHCOCK:
+
+Please see the bearer, Mr. Broadwell, on a question about a mutual
+supplying of clothes to prisoners.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 22, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+I send this as an explanation to you, and to do justice to the
+Secretary of War.  I was induced, upon pressing application, to
+authorize the agents of one of the districts of Pennsylvania to
+recruit in one of the prison depots in Illinois; and the thing went
+so far before it came to the knowledge of the Secretary that, in my
+judgment, it could not be abandoned without greater evil than would
+follow its going through.  I did not know at the time that you had
+protested against that class of thing being done; and I now say that
+while this particular job must be completed, no other of the sort
+will be authorized, without an understanding with you, if at all.
+The Secretary of War is wholly free of any part in this blunder.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO POSTMASTER-GENERAL BLAIR.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 23, 1864.
+
+
+HON. MONTGOMERY BLAIR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--You have generously said to me, more than once, that
+whenever your resignation could be a relief to me, it was at my
+disposal.  The time has come.  You very well know that this proceeds
+from no dissatisfaction of mine with you personally or officially.
+Your uniform kindness has been unsurpassed by that of any other
+friend, and while it is true that the war does not so greatly add to
+the difficulties of your department as to those of some others, it is
+yet much to say, as I most truly can, that in the three years and a
+half during which you have administered the General Post-Office, I
+remember no single complaint against you in connection therewith.
+
+Yours, as ever,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE PURCHASE OF PRODUCTS IN INSURRECTIONARY STATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, September 24, 1864.
+
+I. Congress having authorized the purchase for the United States of
+the products of States declared in insurrection, and the Secretary of
+the Treasury having designated New Orleans, Memphis, Nashville,
+Pensacola, Port Royal, Beaufort (North Carolina), and Norfolk, as
+places of purchase, and, with my approval, appointed agents and made
+regulations under which said products may be purchased, therefore:
+
+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 or parts 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 in transitu, or in store waiting transportation.
+
+III. Any person having the certificate of a purchasing agent, as
+prescribed by Treasury Regulation 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 fulfilment of the stipulations set forth in said certificate.
+
+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 I, shall be permitted by the
+military authority commanding at the place of sale to purchase from
+any authorized dealer at such place merchandise and other articles
+not contraband of war nor prohibited by 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 agents 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 routes set forth in the said
+certificate.
+
+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 of the order of such generals commanding, or other
+duly authorized military or naval officer, made in pursuance hereof,
+and all persons hindering or preventing such safe conduct of persons
+or property will, be deemed guilty of a military offense and punished
+accordingly.
+
+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 in transitu to any other person or than a purchasing
+agent and a designated of purchase shall be seized and forfeited to
+the 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, 1864.
+
+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 the insurrectionary States, or furnish transportation
+therefor under pain of being deemed guilty of unlawful trading with
+the enemy and punished accordingly.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 27, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Atlanta, Georgia:
+
+You say Jefferson Davis is on a visit to Hood.  I judge that Brown
+and Stephens are the objects of his visit.
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., September 29,1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+I hope it will have no constraint on you, nor do harm any way, for me
+to say I am a little afraid lest Lee sends reinforcements to Early,
+and thus enables him to turn upon Sheridan.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT.
+
+September 29, 1864.
+
+I think the bearer of this, Second Lieutenant Albee, deserves a
+hearing.  Will the Secretary of War please accord it to him?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER RETURNING THANKS TO THE VOLUNTEERS FOR ONE HUNDRED DAYS FROM
+THE STATES OF INDIANA, ILLINOIS, IOWA, AND WISCONSIN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, October 1, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+October 5, 1864
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+I inclose you a copy of a correspondence in regard to a contemplated
+exchange of naval prisoners through your lines, and not very distant
+from your headquarters.  It only came to the knowledge of the War
+Department and of myself yesterday, and it gives us some uneasiness.
+I therefore send it to you with the statement that, as the numbers to
+be exchanged under it are small, and so much has already been done to
+effect the exchange, I hope you may find it consistent to let it go
+forward under the general supervision of General Butler, and
+particularly in reference to the points he holds vital in exchanges.
+Still, you are at liberty to arrest the whole operation if in your
+judgment the public good requires it
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON A MEMORANDUM BY GENERAL McDOWELL,
+OCTOBER 7, 1864
+
+I well remember the meetings herein narrated.  See nothing for me to
+object to in the narrative as being made by General McDowell, except
+the phrase attributed to me "of the Jacobinism of Congress,"
+
+[This memorandum describes the private discussions that preceded the
+transfer of McClellan's army from the Potomac, where it had
+confronted the Confederates at Manassas. See H. J. Raymond: Life of
+Lincoln, p.  772]
+
+which phrase I do not remember using literally or in substance, and
+which I wish not to be published in any event.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO H. W. HOFFMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, October 10, 1864.
+
+HON. HENRY W. HOFFMAN.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--A convention of Maryland has framed a new constitution
+for the State; a public meeting is called for this evening at
+Baltimore to aid in securing its ratification by the people, and you
+ask a word from me for the occasion.  I presume the only feature of
+the instrument about which there is serious controversy is that which
+provides for the extinction of slavery.  It needs not to be a secret
+and I presume it is no secret, that I wish success to this provision.
+I desire it on every consideration.  I wish all men to be free.  I
+wish the material prosperity of the already free, which I feel sure
+the extinction of slavery would bring.  I wish to see in process of
+disappearing that only thing which ever could bring this nation to
+civil war.  I attempt no argument.  Argument upon the question is
+already exhausted by the abler, better informed, and more immediately
+interested sons of Maryland herself.  I only add that I shall be
+gratified exceedingly if the good people of the State shall, by their
+votes, ratify the new constitution.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR CURTIN.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 10, 1864, 5 P.M.
+
+GOVERNOR CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.:
+
+Yours of to-day just this moment received, and the Secretary having
+left it is impossible for me to answer to-day.  I have not received
+your letter from Erie.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO ROBERT T. LINCOLN, Cambridge, Mass.:
+
+Your letter makes us a little uneasy about your health.  Telegraph us
+how you are.  If you think it would help you, make us a visit.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 12, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Secretary of War not being in, I answer yours about election.
+Pennsylvania very close, and still in doubt on home vote.  Ohio
+largely for us, with all the members of Congress but two or three.
+Indiana largely for us,--Governor, it is said, by fifteen thousand,
+and eight of the eleven members of Congress.  Send us what you may
+know of your army vote.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+
+OCTOBER 19, 1864.
+
+
+FRIENDS AND FELLOW-CITIZENS:--I am notified that this is a compliment
+paid me by the loyal Marylanders resident in this District.  I infer
+that the adoption of the new constitution for the State furnishes the
+occasion, and that in your view the extirpation of slavery
+constitutes the chief merit of the new constitution.  Most heartily
+do I congratulate you, and Maryland, and the nation, and the world,
+upon this event.  I regret that it did not occur two years sooner,
+which, I am sure, would have saved the nation more money than would
+have met all the private loss incident to the measure; but it has
+come at last, and I sincerely hope its friends may fully realize all
+their anticipations of good from it, and that its opponents may by
+its effects be agreeably and profitably disappointed.
+
+A word upon another subject.  Something said by the Secretary of
+State in his recent speech at Auburn, has been construed by some into
+a threat, that if I shall be beaten at the election, I will, between
+then and the end of my constitutional term, do what I may be able to
+ruin the Government.
+
+Others regard the fact that the Chicago Convention adjourned, not
+sine die, but to meet again, if called to do so by a particular
+individual, as the intimation of a purpose that if their nominee
+shall be elected he will at once seize control of the Government.  I
+hope the good people will permit themselves to suffer no uneasiness
+on either point.  I am struggling to maintain the Government, not to
+overthrow it.  I am struggling especially to prevent others from
+overthrowing it.  I therefore say, that if I live, I shall remain
+President until the 4th of next March, and that whoever shall be
+constitutionally elected, in November, shall be duly installed as
+President on the 4th of March, and in the interval I shall do my
+utmost that whoever is to hold the helm for the next voyage shall
+start with the best possible chance of saving the ship.  This is due
+to the people, both on principle and under the Constitution.  Their
+will, constitutionally expressed, is the ultimate law for all.  If
+they should deliberately resolve to have immediate peace, even at the
+loss of their country and their liberties, I know not the power or
+the right to resist them.  It is their own business, and they must do
+as they please with their own.  I believe, however, they are still
+resolved to preserve their country and their liberties; and in this,
+in office or out of it, I am resolved to stand by them.  I may add,
+that in this purpose to save the country and its liberties, no
+classes of people seem so nearly unanimous as the soldiers in the
+field and the sailors afloat.  Do they not have the hardest of  it?
+Who should quail while they do not? God bless the soldiers and
+seamen, with all their brave commanders.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OF THANKSGIVING, OCTOBER 20, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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 working-
+men in every department of industry with abundant rewards.  Moreover,
+he has been pleased to animate and inspire our minds arid 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.
+
+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 be then, 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.
+
+In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this twentieth day of October, in the
+year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-four, and of
+the independence of the United States the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM To J. G. NICOLAY.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 21, 1864.  9.45 P.M.
+
+J. G. NICOLAY, Saint Louis, Missouri:
+
+While Curtis is fighting Price, have you any idea where the force
+under Rosecrans is, or what it is
+doing?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO WILLIAM B. CAMPBELL AND OTHERS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+October 22, 1864.
+
+
+MESSRS WILLIAM B. CAMPBELL, THOMAS A. R. NELSON, JAMES T. P. CARTER,
+JOHN WILLIAMS, A.  BLIZZARD, HENRY COOPER, BAILLIE PEYTON, JOHN
+LELLYET, EMERSON ETHERIDGE, and JOHN D. PERRYMAN.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--On the 15th day of this month, as I remember, a printed
+paper manuscript, with a few manuscript interlineations, called a
+protest, with your names appended thereto, and accompanied by another
+printed paper, purporting to be a proclamation by Andrew Johnson,
+Military Governor of Tennessee, and also a manuscript paper,
+purporting to be extracts from the Code of Tennessee, were laid
+before me.
+
+The protest, proclamation, and extracts are respectively as follows:
+
+[The protest is here recited, and also the proclamation of Governor
+Johnson, dated September 30, to which it refers, together with a list
+of the counties in East, Middle, and West Tennessee; also extracts
+from the Code of Tennessee in relation to electors of President and
+Vice-President, qualifications of voters for members of the General
+Assembly, places of holding elections, and officers of popular
+elections.]
+
+At the time these papers were presented, as before stated, I had
+never seen either of them, nor heard of the subject to which they
+related, except in a general way one day previously.
+
+Up to the present moment, nothing whatever upon the subject has
+passed between Governor Johnson, or any one else, connected with the
+proclamation, and myself.
+
+Since receiving the papers, as stated, I have given the subject such
+brief consideration as I have been able to do, in the midst of so
+many pressing public duties.
+
+My conclusion is, that I can have nothing to do with the matter,
+either to sustain the plan as the convention and Governor Johnson
+have initiated it, or to revoke or modify it as you demand.
+
+By the Constitution and laws, the President is charged with no duty
+in the presidential election in any State, nor do I in this case
+perceive any military reason for his interference in the matter.
+
+The movement set on foot by the convention and Governor Johnson does
+not, as seems to be assumed by you, emanate from the National
+Executive.
+
+In no proper sense can it be considered other than an independent
+movement of, at least, a portion of the loyal people of Tennessee.
+
+I do not perceive in the plan any menace, or violence, or coercion
+towards any one.
+
+Governor Johnson, like any other loyal citizen of Tennessee, has the
+right to favor any political plan he chooses, and, as military
+governor, it is his duty to keep peace among and for the loyal people
+of the State.
+
+I cannot discern that by this plan he purposes any more.  But you
+object to the plan.
+
+Leaving it alone will be your perfect security against it.  It is not
+proposed to force you into it.  Do as you please, on your own
+account, peaceably and loyally, and Governor Johnson will not molest
+you, but will protect you against violence as far as in his power.
+
+I presume that the conducting of a presidential election in Tennessee
+in strict accordance with the old Code of the State, is not now a
+possibility.
+
+It is scarcely necessary to add, that if any election shall be held
+and any votes shall be cast in the State of Tennessee for President
+and Vice-President of the United States, it will belong, not to the
+military agents, nor yet to the Executive Department, but exclusively
+to another department of the Government, to determine whether they
+are entitled to be counted in conformity with the Constitution and
+laws of the United States.
+
+Except it be to give protection against violence, I decline to
+interfere in any way with any presidential election.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL P. H. SHERIDAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, October 22, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERIDAN:
+
+With great pleasure I tender to you and your brave army the thanks of
+the nation, and my own personal admiration and gratitude, for the
+month's operations in the Shenandoah Valley; and especially for the
+splendid work of October 19, 1864.
+Your obedient servant,
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. H. THOMAS.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 23, 1864 5 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+I have received information to-day, having great appearance of
+authenticity, that there is to be a rebel raid into Western Kentucky;
+that it is to consist of four thousand infantry and three thousand
+cavalry, and is to start from Corinth, Mississippi, On the fourth day
+of November.
+
+A. LINCOLN, President.
+
+Send copy to General Washburn at Memphis.
+A. L.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO T. T. DAVIS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D.C., October 31, 1864.
+
+HON. THOMAS T. DAVIS, Syracuse, N.Y.:
+
+I have ordered that Milton D. Norton be discharged on taking the
+oath.   Please notify his mother.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION ADMITTING NEVADA INTO THE UNION
+
+OCTOBER 31, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation
+
+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,
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of
+the United States to be affixed..........
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BURBRIDGE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 4, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURBRIDGE, Lexington, Ky.
+
+Suspend execution of all the deserters ordered to be executed on
+Sunday at Louisville, until further order, and send me the records in
+the cases. Acknowledge receipt.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO NAVAL OFFICER AT MOBILE BAY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 6, 1864.  9 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL CANBY, New Orleans, La.:
+
+Please forward with all possible despatch to the naval officer
+commanding at Mobile Bay the following order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+(Inclosure.)
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 6, 1864.
+
+NAVAL OFFICER IN COMMAND AT MOBILE BAY
+
+Do not on any account, or on any showing of authority whatever, from
+whomsoever purporting to come, allow the blockade to be violated.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SAILORS' FAIR, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 8, 1864.
+
+TO THE MANAGING COMMITTEE OF THE SAILORS' FAIR,
+Boston, Massachusetts
+
+Allow me to wish you a great success.  With the old fame of the Navy
+made brighter in the present war you cannot fail.  I name none lest I
+wrong others by omission.  To all, from rear-admiral to honest Jack,
+I tender the nation's admiration and gratitude.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO A. H. RICE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 8, 1864.
+
+HON. A. H. RICE, Boston, Massachusetts:
+
+Yours received. I have no other notice that the ox is mine.  If it be
+really so, I present it to the Sailors' Fair as a contribution.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+WASHINGTON, November 8, 1864.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Auburn, New York:
+
+News from Grant, Sherman, Thomas and Rosecrans satisfactory, but not
+important.  Pirate Florida captured by the Wachusett October 7, on
+the coast of Brazil.  The information is certain.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+NOVEMBER 9, 1864.
+
+FRIENDS AND FELLOW-CITIZENS:--Even before I had been informed by you
+that this compliment was paid me by loyal citizens of Pennsylvania,
+friendly to me, I had inferred that you were of that portion of my
+countrymen who think that the best interests of the nation are to be
+subserved by the support of the present administration.  I do not
+pretend to say that you, who think so, embrace all the patriotism and
+loyalty of the country, but I do believe, and I trust without
+personal interest, that the welfare of the country does require that
+such support and indorsement should be given.
+
+I earnestly believe that the consequences of this day's work, if it
+be as you assume, and as now seems probable, will be to the lasting
+advantage, if not to the very salvation, of the country.   I cannot
+at this hour say what has been the result of the election.   But,
+whatever it may be, I have no desire to modify this opinion: that all
+who have labored to-day in behalf of the Union have wrought for the
+best interests of the country and the world; not only for the
+present, but for all future ages.
+
+I am thankful to God for this approval of the people; but, while
+deeply grateful for this mark of their confidence in me, if I know my
+heart, my gratitude is free from any taint of personal triumph.  I do
+not impugn the motives of any one opposed to me.  It is no pleasure
+to me to triumph over any one, but I give thanks to the Almighty for
+this evidence of the people's resolution to stand by free government
+and the rights of humanity.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO H. W. HOFFMAN.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C. November 10, 1864.
+
+H.  HOFFMAN, Baltimore, Md.:
+
+The Maryland soldiers in the Army of the Potomac cast a total vote of
+fourteen hundred and twenty-eight, out of which we get eleven hundred
+and sixty majority.  This is directly from General Meade and General
+Grant.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ON DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+NOVEMBER 10, 1864.
+
+It has long been a grave question whether any government, not too
+strong for the liberties of its people, can be strong enough to
+maintain its existence in great emergencies.  On this point the
+present rebellion brought our government to a severe test, and a
+presidential election occurring in regular course during the
+rebellion, added not a little to the strain.
+
+If the loyal people united were put to the utmost of their strength
+by the rebellion, must they not fail when divided and partially
+paralyzed by a political war among themselves? But the election was a
+necessity.   We cannot have free government without elections; and if
+the election could force us to forego or postpone a national
+election, it might fairly claim to have already conquered and ruined
+us.  The strife of the election is but human nature practically
+applied to the facts of the case.  What has occurred in this case
+must ever recur in similar cases.  Human nature will not change.  In
+any future great national trial, compared with the men of this, we
+will have as weak and as strong, as silly and as wise, as bad and as
+good.  Let us, therefore, study the incidents of this as philosophy
+to learn wisdom from, and none of them as wrongs to be revenged.
+
+But the election, along with its incidental and undesirable strife,
+has done good, too.  It has demonstrated that a people's government
+can sustain a national election in the midst of a great civil war.
+Until now, it has not been known to the world that this was a
+possibility.  It shows, also, how sound and strong we still are.  It
+shows that even among the candidates of the same party, he who is
+most devoted to the Union and most opposed to treason can receive
+most of the people's votes.  It shows, also, to the extent yet known,
+that we have more men now than we had when the war began.   Gold is
+good in its place; but living, brave, and patriotic men are better
+than gold.
+
+But the rebellion continues, and, now that the election is over, may
+not all have a common interest to reunite in a common effort to save
+our common country? For my own part, I have striven and shall strive
+to avoid placing any obstacle in the way.  So long as I have been
+here, I have not willingly planted a thorn in any man's bosom.  While
+I am duly sensible to the high compliment of a re-election, and duly
+grateful, as I trust, to Almighty God, for having directed my
+countrymen to a right conclusion, as I think, for their good, it adds
+nothing to my satisfaction that any other man may be disappointed by
+the result.
+
+May I ask those who have not differed with me to join with me in this
+same spirit towards those who have? And now, let me close by asking
+three hearty cheers for our brave soldiers and seamen, and their
+gallant and skillful commanders.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL S. O. BURBRIDGE.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., November 10, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURBRIDGE, Lexington, Ky.:
+
+I have just received a telegram from Governor Bramlette saying:
+"General John B. Houston, a loyal man and prominent citizen, was
+arrested, and yesterday, started off by General Burbridge, to be sent
+beyond our lines by way of Catlettsburg, for no other offense than
+opposition to your re-election," and I have answered him as follows
+below, of which please take notice and report to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+WASHINGTON, D.C., November 10, 1864.
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Ky.:
+
+Yours of yesterday received.  I can scarcely believe that General
+John B. Houston has been arrested "for no other offense than
+opposition to my re-election;" for, if that had been deemed
+sufficient cause of arrest, I should have heard of more than one
+arrest in Kentucky on election day.  If, however, General Houston has
+been arrested for no other cause than opposition to my re-election,
+General Burbridge will discharge him at once, I sending him a copy of
+this as an order to that effect.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL S. A. HURLBUT.
+(Private.)
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, November 14, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HURLBUT:
+
+Few things since I have been here have impressed me more painfully
+than what, for four or five months past, has appeared a bitter
+military opposition to the new State government of Louisiana.   I
+still indulged some hope that I was mistaken in the fact; but copies
+of a correspondence on the subject between General Canby and
+yourself, and shown me to-day, dispel that hope.  A very fair
+proportion of the people of Louisiana have inaugurated a new State
+government, making an excellent new constitution--better for the poor
+black man than we have in Illinois.  This was done under military
+protection, directed by me, in the belief, still sincerely
+entertained, that with such a nucleus around which to build we could
+get the State into position again sooner than otherwise.  In this
+belief a general promise of protection and support, applicable alike
+to Louisiana and other States, was given in the last annual message.
+During the formation of the new government and constitution they were
+supported by nearly every loyal person, and opposed by every
+secessionist.  And this support and this opposition, from the
+respective standpoints of the parties, was perfectly consistent and
+logical.  Every Unionist ought to wish the new government to succeed;
+and every disunionist must desire it to fail.  Its failure would
+gladden the heart of Slidell in Europe, and of every enemy of the old
+flag in the world.  Every advocate of slavery naturally desires to
+see blasted and crushed the liberty promised the black man by the new
+constitution.  But why General Canby and General Hurlbut should join
+on the same side is to me incomprehensible.
+
+Of course, in the condition of things at New Orleans, the military
+must not be thwarted by the civil authority; but when the
+Constitutional Convention, for what it deems a breach of privilege,
+arrests an editor in no way connected with the military, the military
+necessity for insulting the convention and forcibly discharging the
+editor is difficult to perceive.  Neither is the military necessity
+for protecting the people against paying large salaries fixed by a
+legislature of their own choosing very apparent.  Equally difficult
+to perceive is the military necessity for forcibly interposing to
+prevent a bank from loaning its own money to the State.  These
+things, if they have occurred, are, at the best, no better than
+gratuitous hostility.  I wish I could hope that they may be shown not
+to have occurred.  To make assurance against misunderstanding, I
+repeat that in the existing condition of things in Louisiana, the
+military must not be thwarted by the civil authority; and I add that
+on points of difference the commanding general must be judge and
+master.  But I also add that in the exercise of this judgment and
+control, a purpose, obvious, and scarcely unavowed, to transcend all
+military necessity, in order to crush out the civil government, will
+not be overlooked.
+
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO MARYLAND UNION COMMITTEE,
+NOVEMBER 17, 1864.
+
+The President, in reply, said that he had to confess he had been duly
+notified of the intention to make this friendly call some days ago,
+and in this he had had a fair opportunity afforded to be ready with a
+set speech; but he had not prepared one, being too busy for that
+purpose.  He would say, however, that he was gratified with the
+result of the presidential election.  He had kept as near as he could
+to the exercise of his best judgment for the interest of the whole
+country, and to have the seal of approbation stamped on the course he
+had pursued was exceedingly grateful to his feelings.  He thought he
+could say, in as large a sense as any other man, that his pleasure
+consisted in belief that the policy he had pursued was the best, if
+not the only one, for the safety of the country.
+
+He had said before, and now repeated, that he indulged in no feeling
+of triumph over any man who thought or acted differently from
+himself.  He had no such feeling toward any living man.  When he
+thought of Maryland, in particular, he was of the opinion that she
+had more than double her share in what had occurred in the recent
+elections.  The adoption of a free-State constitution was a greater
+thing than the part taken by the people of the State in the
+presidential election.  He would any day have stipulated to lose
+Maryland in the presidential election to save it by the adoption of a
+free-State constitution, because the presidential election comes
+every four years, while that is a thing which, being done, cannot be
+undone.   He therefore thought that in that they had a victory for
+the right worth a great deal more than their part in the presidential
+election, though of the latter he thought highly.  He had once before
+said, but would say again, that those who have differed with us and
+opposed us will see that the result of the presidential election is
+better for their own good than if they had been successful.
+
+Thanking the committee for their compliment, he brought his brief
+speech to a close.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING BLOCKADE,
+NOVEMBER 19, 1864
+
+BF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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:
+
+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 deeemd advisable that they should be opened to
+domestic and foreign commerce:
+
+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 first 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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.  Done at the city of Washington,
+this nineteenth day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United
+States the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+FIVE-STAR MOTHER
+
+TO MRS. BIXBY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+November 21, 1864.
+
+MRS. BIXBY, Boston, Massachusetts.
+
+DEAR MADAM:--I have been shown in the files of the War Department a
+statement of the Adjutant-General of Massachusetts that you are the
+mother of five sons who have died gloriously on the field of battle.
+I feel how weak and fruitless must be any words of mine which should
+attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming.  But
+I cannot refrain from tendering to you the consolation that may be
+found in the thanks of the Republic they died to save.  I pray that
+our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and
+leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the
+solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice
+upon the altar of freedom.
+
+Yours very sincerely and respectfully,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. PHILLIPS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+November 21, 1864.
+
+DEACON JOHN PHILLIPS.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have heard of the incident at the polls in your town,
+in which you acted so honorable a part, and I take the liberty of
+writing to you to express my personal gratitude for the compliment
+paid me by the suffrage of a citizen so venerable.
+
+The example of such devotion to civic duties in one whose days have
+already been extended an average lifetime beyond the Psalmist's
+limit, cannot but be valuable and fruitful.  It is not for myself
+only, but for the country which you have in your sphere served so
+long and so well, that I thank you.
+
+Your friend and servant,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE.
+WASHINGTON, D. C. NOVEMBER 22, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Ky.:
+
+Yours of to-day received.  It seems that Lieutenant-Governor Jacobs
+and Colonel Wolford are stationary now.  General Sudarth and Mr.
+Hodges are here, and the Secretary of War and myself are trying to
+devise means of pacification and harmony for Kentucky, which we hope
+to effect soon, now that the passion-exciting subject of the election
+is past.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR CURTIN,
+WASHINGTON, D.C., NOVEMBER 25, 1864
+
+GOVERNOR CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania;
+
+I have no knowledge, information, or belief, that three States--or
+any States, offer to resume allegiance.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON D.C., NOV. 26, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS:
+
+Please telegraph me briefly on what charge and evidence Mrs. Anna B.
+Martin has been sent to the penitentiary at Alton.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM,
+
+DECEMBER 3, 1864.
+
+On Thursday of last week, two ladies from Tennessee came before the
+President, asking the release of their husbands held as prisoners of
+war at Johnson's Island.  They were put off until Friday, when they
+came again, and were again put off until Saturday.  At each of the
+interviews one of the ladies urged that her husband was a religious
+man, and on Saturday the President ordered the release of the
+prisoners, when he said to this lady: "You say your husband is a
+religious man; tell him when you meet him, that I say I am not much
+of a judge of religion, but that, in my opinion, the religion that
+sets men to rebel and fight against their own government, because, as
+they think, that government does not sufficiently help some men to
+eat their bread in the sweat of other men's faces, is not the sort of
+religion upon which people can get to heaven."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE STEAMER "FUNAYMA SOLACE."
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 3, 1864.
+
+A war steamer, called the Funayma Solace, 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+WASHINGTON CITY, December 5, 1864
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES: `
+
+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 whilst in command of the United States steamer
+Keaysarge, which led to the total destruction of the piratical craft
+Alabama, on the 19th of June, 1864., a vessel superior in tonnage,
+superior in number of guns, and superior in number of crew.
+
+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:
+
+That any line officer of the navy or marine corps may be advanced one
+grade, if, upon recommendation by the President by name he receives
+the thanks of Congress for highly distinguished conduct in conflict
+with the enemy, or far extraordinary heroism in the line of his
+profession.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+WASHINGTON CITY, December 5, 1864.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend
+that Lieutenant William B. Gushing, United States Navy, receive a
+vote of thanks from Congress for his important, gallant, and perilous
+achievement in destroying the rebel ironclad steamer Albemarle on the
+night of the 27th of October, i86q., at Plymouth, N. C.
+
+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.
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANNUAL MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+DECEMBER 6, 1864.
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+Again the blessings of health and abundant harvests claim our
+profoundest gratitude to Almighty God.
+
+The condition of our foreign affairs is reasonably satisfactory.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Our relations are of the most friendly nature with Chile, the
+Argentine Republic, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Paraguay, San Salvador, and
+Haiti.
+
+During the past year no differences of any kind have arisen with any
+of these republics, and on the other hand, their sympathies with the
+United States are constantly expressed with cordiality and
+earnestness.
+
+The claim arising from the seizure of the cargo of the brig
+Macedonian in 1821 has been paid in full by the Government of Chile.
+
+Civil war continues in the Spanish part of San Domingo, apparently
+without prospect of an early close.
+
+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.
+
+I solicit your authority to furnish to the republic a gunboat, at
+moderate cost, to be reimbursed to the United States by instalments.
+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.
+
+The proposed overland telegraph between America and Europe, by the
+way of Bering 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 co-operate 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The rebellion which has so long been flagrant in China has at last
+been suppressed, with the co-operating 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 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.
+
+Commissioners have been appointed under the treaty with Great Britain
+on the adjustment of the claims of the Hudson Bay and Puget Sound
+Agricultural Companies, in Oregon, and are now proceeding to the
+execution of the trust assigned to them.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.  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.
+
+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,
+196,007.62, 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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
+be such additional legislation as shall be required to meet the just
+expectations of the Secretary.
+
+The public debt on the first 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 $500,000,000.  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 bona fide 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.
+
+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.
+
+The public debt on the first 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.
+
+The national banking system is proving to be acceptable to
+capitalists and to the people.  On the twenty-fifth day of November
+five hundred and eighty-four 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The general exhibit of the Navy, including vessels under construction
+on the first of December, 1864, shows a total of 671 vessels,
+carrying 4610 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.
+
+The total number of men at this time in the naval service, including
+officers, is about 51,000.
+
+There have been captured by the Navy during the year 324 vessels, and
+the whole number of naval captures since hostilities commenced is
+1379, of which 267 are steamers.
+
+The gross proceeds arising from the sale of condemned prize property
+thus far reported amount to $14,369,250.51.  A large amount of such
+proceeds is still under adjudication and yet to be reported.
+
+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 fourth of March, 1861, to the first of
+November, 1864, is $238,647,262.35.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 $206,532.42.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The quantity of public land disposed of during the five quarters
+ending on the thirtieth 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.
+
+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.
+
+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 one hundred miles westward from the initial
+point at Omaha City, Nebraska, 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.
+
+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 produce of the mines of precious metals in that
+region has during the year reached, if not exceeded, $100,000,000 in
+value.
+
+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.
+
+
+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 3oth 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.
+
+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
+1430.  Only twelve of them were soldiers, of whom seven have since
+died.  The remainder are those who under the law receive pensions
+because of relationship to Revolutionary soldiers.  During the year
+ending the thirtieth of June, 1864, $4,504,616.92 have been paid to
+pensioners of all classes.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The most remarkable feature in the military operations of the year is
+General Sherman's attempted march of three hundred 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.
+
+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 twelve
+thousand 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.
+
+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 time 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.
+
+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.
+
+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 how the
+increase has been produced or to show that it would have been greater
+but for the war, which is probably true.  The important fact remains
+demonstrated that we have more men now than we had when the war
+began; that we are not exhausted nor in process of exhaustion; that
+we are gaining strength and may if need be maintain the contest
+indefinitely.  [This sentence recognizes the concern of a guerilla
+war after the main war finished.]This as to men.  Material resources
+are now more complete and abundant than ever.
+
+The national resources, then, are unexhausted, and, as we believe,
+inexhaustible.  The public purpose to re-establish 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.
+
+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.
+
+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 re-
+enslave such persons, another, and not I, must be their instrument to
+perform it.
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+DECEMBER 6, 1864.
+
+FRIENDS AND FELLOW-CITIZENS:--I believe I shall never be old enough
+to speak without embarrassment when I have nothing to talk about.  I
+have no good news to tell you, and yet I have no bad news to tell.
+We have talked of elections until there is nothing more to say about
+them.  The most interesting news now we have is from Sherman.  We all
+know where he went in at, but I can't tell where he will come out at.
+I will now close by proposing three cheers for General Sherman and
+his army.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR HALL.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 7, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR HALL, Jefferson City, Mo.:
+
+Complaint is made to me of the doings of a man at Hannibal, Mo., by
+the name of Haywood, who, as I am told, has charge of some militia
+force, and is not in the United States service.  Please inquire into
+the matter and correct anything you may find amiss if in your power.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COLONEL FASLEIGH.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 8, 1864.
+
+COLONEL FASLEIGH, Louisville, Ky.:
+
+I am appealed to in behalf of a man by the name of Frank Fairbairns,
+said to have been for a long time and still in prison, without any
+definite ground stated. How is it?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER APPOINTING COMMISSIONERS TO INVESTIGATE THE MILITARY DIVISION
+WEST OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, December 10, 1864.
+
+ORDERED, First, that Major-General William P. 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G, H. THOMAS.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., December 16, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Please accept for yourself, officers, and men, the nation's thanks
+for your good work of yesterday.  You made a magnificent beginning; a
+grand consummation is within your easy reach.  Do not let it slip.
+
+A. LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+ORIGIN OF THE "GREENBACK" CURRENCY
+
+TO COLONEL B. D. TAYLOR
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December [16 ?], 1864.
+
+DEAR COLONEL DICK:--I have long determined to make public the origin
+of the greenback and tell the world that it is Dick Taylor's
+creation.  You had always been friendly to me, and when troublous
+times fell on us, and my shoulders, though broad and willing, were
+weak, and myself surrounded by such circumstances and such people
+that I knew not whom to trust, then I said in my extremity: "I will
+send for Colonel Taylor; he will know what to do." I think it was in
+January, 1862, on or about the 16th, that I did so.  You came, and I
+said to you:
+
+"What can we do?" Said you, "Why, issue Treasury notes bearing no
+interest, printed on the best banking paper.  Issue enough to pay off
+the Army expenses and declare it legal tender."
+
+Chase thought it a hazardous thing, but we finally accomplished it,
+and gave the people of this Republic the greatest blessing they ever
+had-their own paper to pay their own debts.
+
+It is due to you, the father of the present greenback, that the
+people should know it, and I take great pleasure in making it known.
+How many times have I laughed at you telling me plainly that I was
+too lazy to be anything but a lawyer.
+
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT CHATTANOOGA.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 16, 1864
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND at Chattanooga, Tenn.:
+
+It is said that Harry Walters, a private in the Anderson cavalry, is
+now and for a long time has been in prison at Chattanooga.  Please
+report to me what is his condition, and for what he is imprisoned.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+CALL FOR 300,000 VOLUNTEERS, DECEMBER 19, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+A Proclamation
+
+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
+country 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
+
+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
+
+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
+
+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):
+
+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 fifteenth 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 fifteenth day of February, 1865.
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed..........
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+SHERMAN'S MARCH TO THE SEA
+
+TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 26, 1864
+
+MY DEAR GENERAL SHERMAN:--Many, many thanks for your Christmas gift,
+the capture of Savannah.
+
+When you were about leaving Atlanta for the Atlantic coast, I was
+anxious, if not fearful; but feeling that you were the better judge,
+and remembering that "nothing risked, nothing gained," I did not
+interfere.  Now, the undertaking being a success, the honor is all
+yours; for I believe none of us went further than to acquiesce.
+
+And taking the work of General Thomas into the count, as it should be
+taken, it is indeed a great success.  Not only does it afford the
+obvious and immediate military advantages; but in showing to the
+world that your army could be divided, putting the stronger part to
+an important new service, and yet leaving enough to vanquish the old
+opposing force of the whole,--Hood's army,--it brings those who sat
+in darkness to see a great light.  But what next?
+
+I suppose it will be safe if I leave General Grant and yourself to
+decide.
+
+Please make my grateful acknowledgments to your whole army of
+officers and men.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT LEXINGTON.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 27, 1864.
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND at Lexington, Ky.:
+
+If within your power send me the particulars of the causes for which
+Lieutenant-Governor Jacob was arrested and sent away.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. MACLEAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 27, 1864.
+
+
+Dr. JOHN MACLEAN:
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have the honor to acknowledge the reception of your
+note of the twentieth of December, conveying the announcement that
+the Trustees of the College of New Jersey had conferred upon me the
+degree of Doctor of Laws.
+
+The assurance conveyed by this high compliment, that the course of
+the Government which I represent, has received the approval of a body
+of gentlemen of such character and intelligence, in this time of
+public trial, is most grateful to me.
+
+Thoughtful men must feel that the fate of civilization upon this
+continent is involved in the issue of our contest.  Among the most
+gratifying proofs of this conviction is the hearty devotion
+everywhere exhibited by our schools and colleges to the national
+cause.
+
+I am most thankful if my labors have seemed to conduct to the
+preservation of those institutions, under which alone we can expect
+good government and in its train sound learning, and the progress of
+the liberal arts.
+
+I am, sir, very truly, your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT NASHVILLE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 28, 1864.
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND at Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+Suspend execution of James R. Mallory, for six weeks from Friday the
+thirtieth of this month, which time I have given his friends to make
+proof, if they can, upon certain points.
+
+A. LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 28, 1864. 5.30 p.m.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+If there be no objection, please tell me what you now understand of
+the Wilmington expedition, present and prospective.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 29, 1864. ,
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER:
+
+There is a man in Company I, Eleventh Connecticut Volunteers, First
+Brigade, Third Division, Twenty-fourth Army Corps, at Chapin's Farm,
+Va.; under the assumed name of William Stanley, but whose real name
+is Frank R. Judd, and who is under arrest, and probably about to be
+tried for desertion.  He is the son of our present minister to
+Prussia, who is a close personal friend of Senator Trumbull and
+myself.  We are not willing for the boy to be shot, but we think it
+as well that his trial go regularly on, suspending execution until
+further order from me and reporting to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COLONEL WARNER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 30, 1864.
+
+COLONEL WARNER, Indianapolis, Ind.:
+
+It is said that you were on the court-martial that tried John Lennon,
+and that you are disposed to advise his being pardoned and sent to
+his regiment.  If this be true, telegraph me to that effect at once.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. WILLIAMS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 4, 1865.
+
+JOHN WILLIAMS, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+Let Trumbo's substitute be regularly mustered in, send me the
+evidence that it is done and I will then discharge Trumbo.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
+
+WASHINGTON, January 5, 1865.
+
+TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 5, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Richard T. Jacob, Lieutenant-Governor of Kentucky, is at the
+Spotswood House, in Richmond, under an order of General Burbridge not
+to return to Kentucky.  Please communicate leave to him to pass our
+lines, and come to me here at Washington.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, January 6, 1865, LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point:
+
+If there is a man at City Point by the name of Waterman Thornton who
+is in trouble about desertion, please have his case briefly stated to
+me and do not let him be executed meantime.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+WASHINGTON, January 9, 1865.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES: 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 twentieth
+of May, 1863, and twentieth of July, 1863, respectively, the
+ratifications of which were exchanged at Brussels on the twenty-
+fourth 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SCHUYLER COLFAX.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 9, 1865.
+
+HON. SCHUYLER COLFAX,
+Speaker of the House of Representatives.
+
+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 Col.
+Thomas M. Key of an interview between himself and General Howell Cobb
+on the fourteenth [15th] day of June, 1862, on the banks of the
+Chickahominy, on the subject of the exchange of prisoners of war."
+
+I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING COMMERCE,
+JANUARY 10, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+Whereas the act of Congress of the twenty-eighth 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 third 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;"
+
+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 third of March, 1845, aforesaid, from and
+after the date of this proclamation.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this tenth day of January, in the
+year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred-and sixty-five, and of
+the independence of the United States of America the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL B. F. BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 10, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+No principal report of yours on the Wilmington expedition has ever
+reached the War Department, as I am informed there.  A preliminary
+report did reach here, but was returned to General Grant at his
+request.  Of course, leave to publish cannot be given without
+inspection of the paper, and not then if it should be deemed to be
+detrimental to the public service.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL B. F. BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 13, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Yours asking leave to come to Washington is received.  You have been
+summoned by the Committee on the Conduct of the War to attend here,
+which, of course, you will do.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 15, 1865.
+
+GOVERNOR JOHNSON, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Yours announcing ordinance of emancipation received. Thanks to the
+convention and to you.  When do you expect to be here?  Would be glad
+to have your suggestion as to supplying your place of military
+governor.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. M. DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 15, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL DODGE, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+It is represented to me that there is so much irregular violence in
+northern Missouri as to be driving away the people and almost
+depopulating it.  Please gather information, and consider whether an
+appeal to the people there to go to their homes and let one another
+alone recognizing as a full right of protection for each that he lets
+others alone, and banning only him who refuses to let others alone
+may not enable you to withdraw the troops, their presence itself
+[being] a cause of irritation and constant apprehension, and thus
+restore peace and quiet, and returning prosperity.  Please consider
+this and telegraph or write me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FIRST OVERTURES FOR SURRENDER FROM DAVIS
+
+TO P. P. BLAIR, SR.
+
+WASHINGTON, January 18, 1865.
+
+F. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+
+SIR:-You having shown me Mr. Davis's letter to you of the twelfth
+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.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, January 19, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Please read and answer this letter as though I was not President, but
+only a friend.  My son, now in his twenty-second year, having
+graduated at Harvard, wishes to see something of the war before it
+ends.  I do not wish to put him in the ranks, nor yet to give him a
+commission, to which those who have already served long are better
+entitled and better qualified to hold.  Could he, without
+embarrassment to you, or detriment to the service, go into your
+military family with some nominal rank, I, and not the public,
+furnishing his necessary means? If no, say so without the least
+hesitation, because I am as anxious and as deeply interested that you
+shall not be encumbered as you can be yourself.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 19, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL DODGE, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+If Mrs. Beattie, alias Mrs. Wolff, shall be sentenced to death,
+notify me, and postpone the execution till further order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ORD.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 19, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD:
+
+You have a man in arrest for desertion passing by the name of
+Stanley.  William Stanley, I think, but whose real name is different.
+He is the son of so close a friend of mine that I must not let him be
+executed.  Please let me know what is his present and prospective
+condition.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. M. DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 24, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL DODGE, St.  Louis, Mo.:
+
+It is said an old lady in Clay County, Missouri, by name Mrs.
+Winifred B. Price, is about being sent South.  If she is not
+misbehaving let her remain.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 2¢, 1865.
+
+HON. ANDREW JOHNSON, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Several members of the Cabinet, with myself, considered the question,
+to-day, as to the time of your coming on here. While we fully
+appreciate your wish to remain in Tennessee until her State
+government shall be completely reinaugurated, it is our unanimous
+conclusion that it is unsafe for you to not be here on the 4th of
+March.  Be sure to reach here by that time.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE, JANUARY 24, 1865.
+
+REVEREND SIR, AND LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:
+
+I accept with emotions of profoundest gratitude, the beautiful gift
+you have been pleased to present to me.  You will, of course, expect
+that I acknowledge it.  So much has been said about Gettysburg and so
+well, that for me to attempt to say more may perhaps only serve to
+weaken the force of that which has already been said.  A most
+graceful and eloquent tribute was paid to the patriotism and self-
+denying labors of the American ladies, on the occasion of the
+consecration of the National Cemetery at Gettysburg, by our
+illustrious friend, Edward Everett, now, alas! departed from earth.
+His life was a truly great one, and I think the greatest part of it
+was that which crowned its closing years, I wish you to read, if you
+have not already done so, the eloquent and truthful words which he
+then spoke of the women of America.  Truly, the services they have
+rendered to the defenders of our country in this perilous time, and
+are yet rendering, can never be estimated as they ought to be.  For
+your kind wishes to me personally, I beg leave to render you likewise
+my sincerest thanks.  I assure you they are reciprocated. And now,
+gentlemen and ladies, may God bless you all.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 25, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point
+
+If Newell W. Root, of First Connecticut Heavy Artillery, is under
+sentence of death, please telegraph me briefly the circumstances.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 25, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Having received the report in the case of Newell W. Root, I do not
+interfere further in the case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EARLY CONSULTATIONS WITH REBELS
+
+INSTRUCTIONS TO MAJOR ECKERT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 30, 1865.
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT.
+
+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.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM SECRETARY OF WAR TO GENERAL ORD.
+(Cipher.)
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., January 30, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD,  Headquarters Army of the James:
+
+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.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON A LETTER FROM J. M. ASHLEY.
+
+HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
+January 31, 1865.
+
+DEAR SIR:--The report is in circulation in the House that Peace
+Commissioners are on their way or in the city, and is being used
+against us.  If it is true, I fear we shall lose the bill.  Please
+authorize me to contradict it, if it is not true.
+
+Respectfully,
+J. M. ASHLEY.
+
+To the President.
+
+
+(Indorsement.)
+
+So far as I know there are no Peace Commissioners in the city or
+likely to be in it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+January 31, 1865
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 31, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+A messenger is coming to you on the business contained in your
+despatch.  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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INSTRUCTIONS TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+January 31, 1865.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State
+
+You will proceed to Fortress Monroe, Virginia, 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.  You will make known to them that three
+things are indispensable to wit:
+
+1.  The restoration of the national authority throughout all the
+States.
+
+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.
+
+3.  No cessation of hostilities short of an end of the war and the
+disbanding of all forces hostile to the Government.
+
+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.  You will not assume to definitely
+consummate anything.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PASSAGE THROUGH CONGRESS OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT FOR THE
+ABOLISHING OF SLAVERY
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE, JANUARY 31, 1865.
+
+He supposed the passage through Congress of the Constitutional
+amendment for the abolishing of slavery throughout the United States
+was the occasion to which he was indebted for the honor of this call.
+
+The occasion was one of congratulation to the country, and to the
+whole world.  But there is a task yet before us--to go forward and
+consummate by the votes of the States that which Congress so nobly
+began yesterday.  He had the honor to inform those present that
+Illinois had already done the work.  Maryland was about half through,
+but he felt proud that Illinois was a little ahead.
+
+He thought this measure was a very fitting if not an indispensable
+adjunct to the winding up of the great difficulty.  He wished the
+reunion of all the States perfected, and so effected as to remove all
+causes of disturbance in the future; and, to attain this end, it was
+necessary that the original disturbing cause should, if possible, be
+rooted out.  He thought all would bear him witness that he had never
+shirked from doing all that he could to eradicate slavery, by issuing
+an Emancipation Proclamation.  But that proclamation falls short of
+what the amendment will be when fully consummated.  A question might
+be raised whether the proclamation was legally valid.  It might be
+added, that it only aided those who came into our lines, and that it
+was inoperative as to those who did not give themselves up; or that
+it would have no effect upon the children of the slaves born
+hereafter; in fact, it would be urged that it did not meet the evil.
+But this amendment is a king's cure for all evils.  It winds the
+whole thing up.  He would repeat, that it was the fitting if not the
+indispensable adjunct to the consummation of the great game we are
+playing.  He could not but congratulate all present--himself, the
+country, and the whole world upon this great moral victory.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, February 1, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point:
+
+Let nothing which is transpiring change, hinder, or delay your
+military movements or plans.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MAJOR ECKERT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 1, 1865.
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT,
+Care of General Grant, City Point, Va.:
+
+Call at Fortress Monroe, and put yourself under direction of Mr.
+Seward, whom you will find there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Say to the gentlemen I will meet them personally at Fortress Monroe
+as soon as I can get there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Fortress Monroe, Va.
+
+Induced by a despatch of General Grant, I join you at Fort Monroe, as
+soon as I can come.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER TO MAKE CORRECTIONS IN THE DRAFT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON CITY, February 6, 1865
+
+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: 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.
+
+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
+fifteenth of this month.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 6, 1865.
+
+PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL:
+
+These gentlemen distinctly say to me this morning that what they want
+is the means from your office of showing their people that the quota
+assigned to them is right. They think it will take but little time-
+two hours, they say. Please give there double the time and every
+facility you can.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+February 6, 1865.
+
+The Provost-Marshal brings this letter back to me and says he cannot
+give the facility required without detriment to the service, and
+thereupon he is excused from doing it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO LIEUTENANT-COLONEL GLENN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 7, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-COLONEL GLENN,
+Commanding Post at Henderson, Ky.:
+
+Complaint is made to me that you are forcing negroes into the
+military service, and even torturing them--riding them on rails and
+the like to extort their consent.  I hope this may be a mistake.  The
+like must not be done by you, or any one under you.  You must not
+force negroes any more than white men.  Answer me on this.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR SMITH.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 8, 1865.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY GOVERNOR SMITH, of Vermont:
+
+Complaint is made to me, by Vermont, that the assignment of her quota
+for the draft on the pending call is intrinsically unjust, and also
+in bad faith of the Government's promise to fairly allow credits for
+men previously furnished.  To illustrate, a supposed case is stated
+as follows:
+
+Vermont and New Hampshire must between them furnish six thousand men
+on the pending call; and being equal, each must furnish as many as
+the other in the long run. But the Government finds that on former
+calls Vermont furnished a surplus of five hundred, and New Hampshire
+a surplus, of fifteen hundred. These two surpluses making two
+thousand and added to the six thousand, making eight thousand to be
+furnished by the two States, or four thousand each less, by fair
+credits.  Then subtract Vermont's surplus of five hundred from her
+four thousand, leaves three thousand five hundred as her quota on the
+pending call; and likewise subtract New Hampshire's surplus of
+fifteen hundred from her four thousand, leaves two thousand five
+hundred as her quota on the pending call.  These three thousand five
+hundred and two thousand five hundred make precisely six thousand,
+which the supposed case requires from the two States, and it is just
+equal for Vermont to furnish one thousand more now than New
+Hampshire, because New Hampshire has heretofore furnished one
+thousand more than Vermont, which equalizes the burdens of the two in
+the long run.  And this result, so far from being bad faith to
+Vermont, is indispensable to keeping good faith with New Hampshire.
+By no other result can the six thousand men be obtained from the two
+States, and, at the same time deal justly and keep faith with both,
+and we do but confuse ourselves in questioning the process by which
+the right result is reached. The supposed case is perfect as an
+illustration.
+
+The pending call is not for three hundred thousand men subject to
+fair credits, but is for three hundred thousand remaining after all
+fair credits have been deducted, and it is impossible to concede what
+Vermont asks without coming out short of three hundred thousand men,
+or making other localities pay for the partiality shown her.
+
+This upon the case stated. If there be different reasons for making
+an allowance to Vermont, let them be presented and considered.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 8, 1865.
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 8, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point.  Va.:
+
+I am called on by the House of Representatives to give an account of
+my interview with Messrs.  Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell, and it is
+very desirable to me to put your despatch of February 1, to the
+Secretary of War, in which, among other things, you say: "I fear now
+their going back without any expression from any one in authority
+will have a bad influence."  I think the despatch does you credit,
+while I do not see that it can embarrass you.  May I use it?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE OF CONGRESS, REPORTING
+THE RESULT OF THE ELECTORAL COUNT,
+
+FEBRUARY 9, 1865.
+
+With deep gratitude to my countrymen for this mark of their
+confidence; with a distrust of my own ability to perform the duty
+required under the most favorable circumstances, and now rendered
+doubly difficult by existing national perils; yet with a firm
+reliance on the strength of our free government, and the eventual
+loyalty of the people to the just principles upon which it is
+founded, and above all with an unshaken faith in the Supreme Ruler of
+nations, I accept this trust.  Be pleased to signify this to the
+respective Houses of Congress.
+
+
+
+
+CHRONOLOGIC REVIEW OF PEACE PROPOSALS
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 10, 1865
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+In response to your resolution of the eighth 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:
+
+December 28, 1864.
+
+Allow the bearer, F. P. Blair, Sr., to pass our lines, go South, and
+return.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+RICHMOND, VA., January 12, 1865.
+F. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+SIR: I have deemed it proper, and probably desirable to you, to give
+you in this for in the substance of remarks made by me, to be
+repeated by you to President Lincoln, etc., etc.
+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.
+Yours, etc.,
+JEFFERSON DAVIS.
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+WASHINGTON, January 18, 1865.
+
+P. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+
+SIR:--Your having shown me Mr. Davis's letter to you of the twelfth
+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.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+January 28, 1865
+
+To-day Mr. Blair tells me that on the twenty-first 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' letter about "the two countries,"
+to which Mr. Davis replied that he so understood it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards the Secretary of War placed in my hands the following
+telegram, indorsed by him, as appears:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH WAR DEPARTMENT.
+The following telegram received at Washington January 29, 1865, from
+headquarters Army of James,
+
+6.30P.M., January 29, 1865:
+"HON. EDWIN M. STANTON,  "Secretary of War:
+"The following despatch 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:
+
+"E. O. C. ORD, Major-General, Commanding.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF POTOMAC,
+January 29, 1863.  4P.M.
+'MAJOR-GENERAL E. O. C. ORD,
+'Headquarters Army of James:
+'The following despatch 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.
+'JNO. G. PARKE, Major-General, Commanding.'
+
+
+'FROM HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY Cos, 29th.
+'MAJOR-GENERAL JNO. G. PARKE, 'Headquarters Army of Potomac:
+'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. to-morrow morning.
+'O. B. WILCOX,
+'Major-General, Commanding Ninth Corps.'
+
+
+"January 29, 8.30 P.M.
+"Respectfully referred to the President for such instructions as he
+may be pleased to give.
+"EDWIN M. STANTON,  "Secretary of War."
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, January 29, 1865.  10 P.M.
+(Sent at 2 A.M., 30th.)
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD.
+
+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 telegraph will be
+submitted for his directions.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards, by my direction, the Secretary of War telegraphed General
+Ord as follows, to wit:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D.C., January 30.  10.30 A.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL E. O. C. ORD,
+Headquarters Army of the James.
+
+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.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards I prepared and put into the hands of Major Thomas T.
+Eckert the following instructions and message:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT.  WASHINGTON, January 30, 1865
+
+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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+CITY POINT, VA..  February 1, 1865.
+
+MESSRS. ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS, J. A. CAMPBELL AND
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+
+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.
+
+THOMAS T. ECKERT,
+Major and Aide-de-Camp.
+
+
+
+WASHINGTON, January 18, 1865.
+F. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+
+SIR:--Your having shown me Mr. Davis's letter to you of the twelfth
+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.
+Yours, etc.,   A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards, but before Major Eckert had departed, the following
+dispatch was received from General Grant:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+
+The following telegram received at Washington January 3J, 1865, from
+City Point, Va., 10.30 A.M., January 30, 1865:
+
+"His EXCELLENCY ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+President of the United States:
+
+"The following communication was received here last evening:
+
+'PETERSBURG, VA., January 30, 1865.
+'LIEUTENANT-GENERAL U.S. GRANT,
+Commanding Armies United States.
+'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.
+'Very respectfully, yours,
+'ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS.
+'J. A. CAMPBELL.
+'R. M. T. HUNTER.'
+
+
+"I have sent directions to receive these gentlemen, and expect to
+have them at my quarters this evening, awaiting your instructions.
+U.S. GRANT,
+Lieutenant-General, Commanding
+Armies United States."
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, January 13, 1865
+(Sent at 1.30 P.M.)
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+A messenger is coming to you on the business contained in your
+despatch.  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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+When Major Eckert departed, he bore with him a letter of the
+Secretary of War to General Grant, as follows, to wit:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 30, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, Commanding, etc.
+
+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.
+
+By order of the President:
+EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 31, 1865.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State:
+
+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.
+
+You will make known to them that three things are indispensable, to
+Wit:
+
+1.  The restoration of the national authority throughout all the
+States.
+
+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.
+
+3.  No cessation of hostilities short of an end of the war and the
+disbanding of all forces hostile to the Government.
+
+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.
+
+You will not assume to definitely consummate anything.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+On the day of its date the following telegram was sent to General
+Grant:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 1,1865
+(Sent at 9.30 A.M.)
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Let nothing which is transpiring change, hinder, or delay your
+military movements or plans.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards the following despatch was received from General Grant:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+The following telegram received at Washington, 2.30 P.M., February 1,
+1865, from City Point, Va., February 1, 12.30 PM., 1865:
+
+"His EXCELLENCY A. LINCOLN, President United States:
+
+Your despatch 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.
+
+U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant-General."
+
+
+
+
+To notify Major Eckert that the Secretary of State would be at
+Fortress Monroe, and to put them in communication, the following
+despatch was sent:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 1, 1865.
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT,
+Care of General Grant, City Point, Va.:
+
+Call at Fortress Monroe and put yourself under direction of Mr. S.,
+whom you will find there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+On the morning of the 2d instant the following telegrams were
+received by me respectively from the Secretary of State and Major
+Eckert:
+
+FORT MONROE, VA.,
+February 1,1865.  11.30 PM.
+
+THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+Arrived at 10 this evening.  Richmond party not here.  I remain here.
+
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
+
+
+
+CITY POINT, VA.,
+February 1, 1865.  10 P.M.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY A. LINCOLN, President of the United States:
+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.
+
+
+
+
+At 8 P.M. the following note, addressed to General Grant, was
+received:
+
+CITY POINT, VA.,
+February 1, 1865
+
+"LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT.
+"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.
+Very respectfully yours,
+ALEX. H. STEPHENS
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+J. A. CAMPBELL."
+
+
+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 to-
+morrow unless otherwise ordered.
+
+THOS. T. ECKERT, Major, etc.
+
+
+
+
+On reading this despatch 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:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+
+The following telegram received at Washington
+4.35A.M., February 2, 1865, from City Point, Va., February 1, 10.30
+P.M., 1865:
+
+"HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, "Secretary of War:
+
+"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 despatch, 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.
+
+"U.S. GRANT
+"Lieutenant-General,"
+
+
+
+
+This despatch of General Grant changed my purpose, and accordingly I
+telegraphed him and the Secretary of State, respectively, as follows:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865.  (Sent at 9 A.M.)
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Say to the gentlemen I will meet them personally at Fortress Monroe
+as soon as I can get there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865.  (Sent at 9 A.M.)
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Fortress Monroe, Va.:
+
+Induced by a despatch from General Grant, I join you at Fort Monroe
+as soon as I can come.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Before starting, the following despatch was shown me.  I proceeded,
+nevertheless:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+The following telegram received at Washington, February 2, 1865, from
+City Point, Va., 9 A.M., February2, 1865:
+
+"HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State, Fort Monroe:
+
+"The gentlemen here have accepted the proposed terms, and will leave
+for Fort Monroe at 9.30 A.M.
+
+"U. S. GRANT, "Lieutenant-General."
+
+(Copy to HON. Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War, Washington.)
+
+
+
+
+On the night of the 2nd 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 despatch to me of the 1st he characterizes as "not satisfactory."
+That answer is as follows, to wit:
+
+CITY POINT, VA., February 1, 1865.
+THOMAS T. ECKERT, Major and Aid-de-Camp.
+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.  Our instructions are contained in a letter of which the
+following is a copy:
+
+RICHMOND, January 28, 1865.
+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.
+"With great respect, your obedient servant,
+"JEFFERSON DAVIS."
+
+
+
+The substantial object to be obtained by the informal conference is
+to ascertain upon what terms the existing war can be terminated
+honorably.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Very respectfully, yours,
+ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS.
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+JOHN A. CAMPBELL.
+
+
+
+
+A note of these gentlemen, subsequently addressed to General Grant,
+has already been given in Major Eckert's despatch of the 1st instant.
+
+I also here saw, for the first time, the following note, addressed by
+the Richmond gentlemen to Major Eckert:
+
+CITY POINT, VA., February 2, 1865.
+THOMAS T. ECKERT, Major and Aid-de-Camp.
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Very respectfully, yours, etc.,
+
+ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS,
+J. A. CAMPBELL,
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+
+
+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.
+THOMAS T. ECKERT
+Major and Aid-de-Camp.
+
+
+
+
+On the morning of the third 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 ever would consent to reunion, and yet they
+equally omitted to declare that they never would 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.
+
+The foregoing, containing, as is believed, all the information sought
+is respectfully submitted.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE SENATE.
+
+WASHINGTON, February 10, 1865
+
+To THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the eighth 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO THE PRESIDENT:
+
+The Secretary of State, to whom was referred a resolution of the
+Senate of the 8th instant, requesting "the President of the United
+States, if, in his opinion, not incompatible with the public
+interests, to furnish to the Senate any information in his possession
+concerning recent conversations or communications with certain
+rebels," said to have taken place under executive sanction, including
+communications with the rebel Jefferson Davis, and any correspondence
+relating thereto," has the honor to report that the Senate may
+properly be referred to a special message of the President bearing
+upon the subject of the resolution, and transmitted to the House this
+day.  Appended to this report is a copy of an instruction which has
+been addressed to Charles Francis Adams, Esq., envoy extraordinary
+and minister plenipotentiary of the United States at London, and
+which is the only correspondence found in this department touching
+the subject referred to in the resolution.
+
+Respectfully submitted,
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
+DEPARTMENT OF STATE, WASHINGTON, February 10, 1865.
+
+
+
+
+MR. SEWARD TO MR. ADAMS.
+(Extract.)
+No.  1258.
+
+DEPARTMENT OF STATE, WASHINGTON, February 7,1865
+
+On the morning of the 3d, the President, attended by the Secretary,
+received Messrs.  Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell on board the United
+States steam transport River Queen in Hampton Roads.  The conference
+was altogether informal.  There was no attendance of secretaries,
+clerks, or other witnesses.  Nothing was written or read.  The
+conversation, although earnest and free, was calm, and courteous, and
+kind on both sides.  The Richmond party approached the discussion
+rather indirectly, and at no time did they either make categorical
+demands, or tender formal stipulations or absolute refusals.
+Nevertheless, during the conference, which lasted four hours, the
+several points at issue between the Government and the insurgents
+were distinctly raised, and discussed fully, intelligently, and in an
+amicable spirit.  What the insurgent party seemed chiefly to favor
+was a postponement of the question of separation, upon which the war
+is waged, and a mutual direction of efforts of the Government, as
+well as those of the insurgents, to some extrinsic policy or scheme
+for a season during which passions might be expected to subside, and
+the armies be reduced, and trade and intercourse between the people
+of both sections resumed.  It was suggested by them that through such
+postponement we might now have immediate peace, with some not very
+certain prospect of an ultimate satisfactory adjustment of political
+relations between this Government and the States, section, or people
+now engaged in conflict with it.
+
+This suggestion, though deliberately considered, was nevertheless
+regarded by the President as one of armistice or truce, and he
+announced that we can agree to no cessation or suspension of
+hostilities, except on the basis of the disbandment of the insurgent
+forces, and the restoration of the national authority throughout all
+the States in the Union.  Collaterally, and in subordination to the
+proposition which was thus announced, the antislavery policy of the
+United States was reviewed in all its bearings, and the President
+announced that he must not be expected to depart from the positions
+he had heretofore assumed in his proclamation of emancipation and
+other documents, as these positions were reiterated in his last
+annual message.  It was further declared by the President that the
+complete restoration of the national authority was an indispensable
+condition of any assent on our part to whatever form of peace might
+be proposed.  The President assured the other party that, while he
+must adhere to these positions, he would be prepared, so far as power
+is lodged with the Executive, to exercise liberality.  His power,
+however, is limited by the Constitution; and when peace should be
+made, Congress must necessarily act in regard to appropriations of
+money and to the admission of representatives from the
+insurrectionary States.  The Richmond party were then informed that
+Congress had, on the 31st ultimo, adopted by a constitutional
+majority a joint resolution submitting to the several States the
+proposition to abolish slavery throughout the Union, and that there
+is every reason to expect that it will be soon accepted by three
+fourths of the States, so as to become a part of the national organic
+law.
+
+The conference came to an end by mutual acquiescence, without
+producing an agreement of views upon the several matters discussed,
+or any of them.  Nevertheless, it is perhaps of some importance that
+we have been able to submit our opinions and views directly to
+prominent insurgents, and to hear them in answer in a courteous and
+not unfriendly manner.
+
+I am, sir, your obedient servant,
+
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
+
+
+
+
+TO ADMIRAL DAVID D. PORTER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 10, 1865
+
+REAR-ADMIRAL DAVID D. PORTER,
+Commanding North Atlantic Squadron, Hampton Roads, Va.
+
+SIR:--It is made my agreeable duty to enclose herewith the joint
+resolution approved 24th January, 1865, tendering the thanks of
+Congress to yourself, the officers and men under your command for
+their gallantry and good conduct in the capture of Fort Fisher, and
+through you to all who participated in that brilliant and decisive
+victory under your command.
+
+Very respectfully,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL S. POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 12, 1865
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+I understand that provost-marshals in different parts of Missouri are
+assuming to decide that the conditions of bonds are forfeited, and
+therefore are seizing and selling property to pay damages.  This, if
+true, is both outrageous and ridiculous.   Do not allow it.  The
+courts, and not provost-marshals, are to decide such questions unless
+when military necessity makes an exception.  Also excuse John Eaton,
+of Clay County, and Wesley Martin, of Platte, from being sent South,
+and let them go East if anywhere.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+
+
+TO THE COMMANDING OFFICERS IN WEST TENNESSEE
+
+WASHINGTON,
+February 13, 1865.
+
+TO THE MILITARY OFFICERS COMMANDING IN WEST
+TENNESSEE:
+
+While I cannot 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.
+
+Of your military necessities you must judge and execute, but please
+do so in the spirit and with the purpose above indicated.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL J. POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 14, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Yours of yesterday about provost-marshal system received.  As part of
+the same subject, let me say I am now pressed in regard to a pending
+assessment in St.  Louis County.  Please examine and satisfy yourself
+whether this assessment should proceed or be abandoned; and if you
+decide that it is to proceed, please examine as to the propriety of
+its application to a gentleman by the name of Charles McLaran.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON February 15, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Please ascertain whether General Fisk's administration is as good as
+it might be, and answer me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONVENING THE SENATE IN EXTRA SESSION,
+
+FEBRUARY 17, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation
+
+Whereas objects of interest to the United States require that the
+Senate should be convened at twelve o'clock on the fourth of March
+next to receive and act upon such communications as may be made to it
+on the part of the Executive;
+
+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 fourth day of March next,
+at twelve 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.
+
+Given under my hand and the seal of the United States, at
+Washington...............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT HARPER'S FERRY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 17, 1865
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND AT HARPER'S FERRY:
+
+Chaplain Fitzgibbon yesterday sent me a despatch invoking Clemency
+for Jackson, Stewart, and Randall, who are to be shot to-day.  The
+despatch is so vague that there is no means here of ascertaining
+whether or not the execution of sentence of one or more of them may
+not already have been ordered.  If not suspend execution of sentence
+m their cases until further orders and forward records of trials for
+examination.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+MAJOR ECKERT:
+Please send above telegram
+JNO. G. NICOLAY.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 24, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Virginia:
+
+I am in a little perplexity.  I was induced to authorize a gentleman
+to bring Roger A. Pryor here with a view of effecting an exchange of
+him; but since then I have seen a despatch of yours showing that you
+specially object to his exchange.  Meantime he has reached here and
+reported to me.  It is an ungracious thing for me to send him back to
+prison,  and yet inadmissible for him to remain here long.  Cannot
+you help me out with it? I can conceive that there may be difference
+to you in days, and I can keep him a few days to accommodate on that
+point.  I have not heard of my son's reaching you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 24, 1865
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+Please inquire and report to me whether there is any propriety of
+longer keeping in Gratiott Street Prison a man said to be there by
+the name of Riley Whiting.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, February 25, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Virginia:
+
+General Sheridan's despatch to you, of to-day, in which he says he
+"will be off on Monday," and that he "will leave behind about two
+thousand men," causes the Secretary of War and myself considerable
+anxiety.   Have you well considered whether you do not again leave
+open the Shenandoah Valley entrance to Maryland and Pennsylvania, or,
+at least, to the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 27, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Virginia:
+
+Subsequent reflection, conference with General Halleck, your
+despatch, and one from General Sheridan, have relieved my anxiety;
+and so I beg that you will dismiss any concern you may have on my
+account, in the matter of my last despatch.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO T. W. CONWAY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 1, 1865.
+
+MR. THOMAS W. CONWAY,
+General Superintendent Freedmen,
+Department of the Gulf.
+
+SIR:--Your statement to Major-General Hurlbut of the condition of the
+freedmen of your department, and of your success in the work of their
+moral and physical elevation, has reached me and given me much
+pleasure.
+
+That we shall be entirely successful in our efforts I firmly believe.
+
+The blessing of God and the efforts of good and faithful men will
+bring us an earlier and happier consummation than the most sanguine
+friends of the freedmen could reasonably expect.
+
+Yours,
+
+A. LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 2, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+You have not sent contents of Richmond papers for Tuesday or
+Wednesday.  Did you not receive them? If not, does it indicate
+anything?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM SECRETARY STANTON
+TO GENERAL GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, March 3, 1865.  12 PM.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+The President directs me to say to you that he wishes you to have no
+conference with General Lee unless it be for the capitulation of
+General Lee's army, or on some minor and purely military matter.  He
+instructs me to say that you are not to decide, discuss, or confer
+upon any political question.  Such questions the President holds in
+his own hands, and will submit them to no military conferences or
+conventions.  Meantime you are to press to the utmost your military
+advantages.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,  Secretary of War.
+
+
+SECOND INAUGURAL ADDRESS,
+
+MARCH 4, 1865.
+
+
+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.
+
+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 saving the Union
+without war, insurgent agents were in the city seeking to destroy it
+without war seeking to dissolve the Union and divide effects by
+negotiation.  Both parties deprecated war, but one of them would make
+war rather than let the nation survive, and the other would accept
+war rather than let it perish, and the war came.
+
+One eighth of the whole population was 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 cause 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."
+
+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.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL JOHN POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 7, 1865
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Please state briefly, by telegraph, what you concluded about the
+assessments in St.  Louis County.  Early in the war one Samuel B.
+Churchill was sent from St.  Louis to Louisville, where I have quite
+satisfactory evidence that he has not misbehaved.  Still I am told
+his property at St.  Louis is subjected to the assessment, which I
+think it ought not to be.  Still I wish to know what you think.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 8, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va:
+
+Your two despatches to the Secretary of War, one relating to supplies
+for the enemy going by the Blackwater, and the other to General
+Singleton and Judge Hughes, have been laid before me by him.  As to
+Singleton and Hughes, I think they are not in Richmond by any
+authority, unless it be from you.  I remember nothing from me which
+could aid them in getting there, except a letter to you, as follows,
+to wit:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON CITY, February 7, 1865.
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+General Singleton, who bears you this, claims that he already has
+arrangements made, if you consent, to bring a large amount of
+Southern produce through your lines.  For its bearing on our
+finances, I would be glad for this to be done, if it can be, without
+injuriously disturbing your military operations, or supplying the
+enemy.  I wish you to be judge and master on these points.  Please
+see and hear him fully, and decide whether anything, and, if
+anything, what, can be done in the premises.
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+I believe I gave Hughes a card putting him with Singleton on the same
+letter.  However this may be, I now authorize you to get Singleton
+and Hughes away from Richmond, if you choose, and can.  I also
+authorize you, by an order, or in what form you choose, to suspend
+all operations on the Treasury trade permits, in all places
+southeastward of the Alleghenies.  If you make such order, notify me
+of it, giving a copy, so that I can give corresponding direction to
+the Navy.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OFFERING PARDON TO DESERTERS,
+
+MARCH 11, 1865
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
+OF AMERICA
+
+A Proclamation
+
+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 citizenship and their
+right 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 they are 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:
+
+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 or companies or to such other organization 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.
+
+In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed...............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO H. T. BLOW.
+
+WASHINGTON, March 13, 1865.
+
+HON. HENRY T. BLOW, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+A Miss E. Snodgrass, who was banished from Saint Louis in May,1863,
+wishes to take the oath and return home. What say you?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LETTER TO THURLOW WEED,
+
+MARCH 15, 1865.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C.
+
+DEAR Mr. WEED:
+
+Every one likes a compliment.  Thank you for yours on my little
+notification speech and on the recent inaugural address.  I expect
+the latter to wear as well as perhaps better than--anything I have
+produced; but I believe it is not immediately popular.  Men are not
+flattered by being shown that there has been a difference of purpose
+between the Almighty and them.  To deny it, however, in this case, is
+to deny that there is a God governing the world.  It is a truth which
+I thought needed to be told, and, as whatever of humiliation there is
+in it falls most directly on myself, I thought others might afford
+for me to tell it.
+
+Truly yours,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COLONEL ROUGH AND OTHERS.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 17, 1865.
+
+COL. R. M. ROUGH AND OTHERS, Chicago, Ill.:
+
+Yours received. The best I can do with it is, to refer it to the War
+Department.  The Rock Island case referred to, was my individual
+enterprise; and it caused so much difficulty in so many ways that I
+promised to never undertake another.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO AN INDIANA REGIMENT,
+
+MARCH 17, 1865.
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS:--It will be but a very few words that I shall
+undertake to say.  I was born in Kentucky, raised in Indiana, and
+lived in Illinois; and now I am here, where it is my business to care
+equally for the good people of all the States.  I am glad to see an
+Indiana regiment on this day able to present the captured flag to the
+Governor of Indiana.   I am not disposed, in saying this, to make a
+distinction between the States, for all have done equally well.
+
+There are but few views or aspects of this great war upon which I
+have not said or written something whereby my own opinions might be
+known.  But there is one--the recent attempt of our erring brethren,
+as they are sometimes called, to employ the negro to fight for them.
+I have neither written nor made a speech on that subject, because
+that was their business, not mine, and if I had a wish on the
+subject, I had not the power to introduce it, or make it effective.
+The great question with them was whether the negro, being put into
+the army, will fight for them.  I do not know, and therefore cannot
+decide.  They ought to know better than me.  I have in my lifetime
+heard many arguments why the negroes ought to be slaves; but if they
+fight for those who would keep them in slavery, it will be a better
+argument than any I have yet heard.  He who will fight for that,
+ought to be a slave.  They have concluded, at last, to take one out
+of four of the slaves and put them in the army, and that one out of
+the four who will fight to keep the others in slavery, ought to be a
+slave himself, unless he is killed in a fight.   While I have often
+said that all men ought to be free, yet would I allow those colored
+persons to be slaves who want to be, and next to them those white
+people who argue in favor of making other people slaves.   I am in
+favor of giving an appointment to such white men to try it on for
+these slaves.  I will say one thing in regard to the negroes being
+employed to fight for them.  I do know he cannot fight and stay at
+home and make bread too.   And as one is about as important as the
+other to them, I don't care which they do.  I am rather in favor of
+having them try them as soldiers.  They lack one vote of doing that,
+and I wish I could send my vote over the river so that I might cast
+it in favor of allowing the negro to fight.  But they cannot fight
+and work both.  We must now see the bottom of the enemy's resources.
+They will stand out as long as they can, and if  the negro will fight
+for them they must allow him to fight.  They have drawn upon their
+last branch of resources, and we can now see the bottom.  I am glad
+to see the end so near at hand.  I have said now more than I
+intended, and will therefore bid you good-by.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING INDIANS,
+
+MARCH 17, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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;
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, arid caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed...................
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER ANNULLING THE SENTENCE AGAINST
+BENJAMIN G. SMITH AND FRANKLIN W. SMITH,
+
+MARCH 18, 1865.
+
+
+I am unwilling for the sentence to stand, and be executed, to any
+extent in this case.  In the absence of a more adequate motive than
+the evidence discloses, I am wholly unable to believe in the
+existence of criminal or fraudulent intent on the part of men of such
+well established good character.  If the evidence went as far to
+establish a guilty profit of one or two hundred thousand dollars, as
+it does of one or two hundred dollars, the case would, on the
+question of guilt, bear a far different aspect.  That on this
+contract, involving some twelve hundred thousand dollars, the
+contractors would plan, and attempt to execute a fraud which, at the
+most, could profit them only one or two hundred, or even one thousand
+dollars, is to my mind beyond the power of rational belief.  That
+they did not, in such a case, make far greater gains, proves that
+they did not, with guilty or fraudulent intent, make at all.  The
+judgment and sentence are disapproved, and declared null, and the
+defendants are fully discharged.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+March 18, 1865.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL J. POPE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 19, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St. Louis, Missouri:
+
+Understanding that the plan of action for Missouri contained in your
+letter to the Governor of that State, and your other letter to me, is
+concurred in by the Governor, it is approved by me, and you will be
+sustained in proceeding upon it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ORD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May [March] 20, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD, Army of the James
+
+Is it true that George W. Lane is detained at Norfolk without any
+charge against him?  And if so why is it done?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO JUDGE SCATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, March 21, 1865.
+
+HON. WALTER B. SCATES, Centralia, Illinois:
+
+If you choose to go to New Mexico and reside, I will appoint you
+chief justice there. What say you? Please answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. HANCOCK.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 22, 1865.
+MAJOR-GENERAL HANCOCK, Winchester, Va.:
+
+Seeing your despatch about General Crook, and fearing that through
+misapprehension something unpleasant may occur, I send you below two
+despatches of General Grant, which I suppose will fully explain
+General Crook's movements.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANOTHER FEMALE SPY
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 23, 1865.
+
+GENERAL DODGE,
+Commanding, &c, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+Allow Mrs. R. S. Ewell the benefit of my amnesty proclamation on her
+taking the oath.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, March 25, 1865.  8.30 A.M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D. C.:
+
+Arrived here all safe about 9 P.M. yesterday.   No war news.  General
+Grant does not seem to know very much about Yeatman, but thinks very
+well of him so far as he does know.
+
+I like Mr. Whiting very much, and hence would wish him to remain or
+resign as best suits himself.  Hearing this much from me, do as you
+think best in the matter.  General Lee has sent the Russell letter
+back, concluding, as I understand from Grant, that their dignity does
+not admit of their receiving the document from us.  Robert just now
+tells me there was a little rumpus up the line this morning, ending
+about where it began.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+(Cipher.)
+HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
+March 25, 1865.  (Received 5 P.M.)
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+I am here within five miles of the scene of this morning's action.  I
+have nothing to add to what General Meade reports except that I have
+seen the prisoners myself and they look like there might be the
+number he states--1600.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., March 26, 1865.  (Received 11.30 A.M.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+I approve your Fort Sumter programme.  Grant don't seem to know
+Yeatman very well, but thinks very well of him so far as he knows.
+Thinks it probable that Y. is here now, for the place.  I told you
+this yesterday as well as that you should do as you think best about
+Mr. Whiting's resignation, but I suppose you did not receive the
+dispatch.  I am on the boat and have no later war news than went to
+you last night.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, March 27, 1865.3.35 P.M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D.C.:
+
+Yours inclosing Fort Sumter order received.  I think of but one
+suggestion.  I feel quite confident that Sumter fell on the 13th, and
+not on the 14th of April, as you have it.  It fell on Saturday, the
+13th; the first call for troops on our part was got up on Sunday, the
+14th, and given date and issued on Monday, the 15th.  Look up the old
+almanac and other data, and see if I am not right.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, March 28, 1865. 12 M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D.C.:
+After your explanation, I think it is little or no difference whether
+the Fort Sumter ceremony takes place on the 13th or 14th.
+
+General Sherman tells me he is well acquainted with James Yeatman,
+and that he thinks him almost the best man in the country for
+anything he will undertake.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., March 30, 1865.  7.30 P.M.
+(Received 8.30 P.M.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+I begin to feel that I ought to be at home and yet I dislike to leave
+without seeing nearer to the end of General Grant's present movement.
+He has now been out since yesterday morning and although he has not
+been diverted from his programme no considerable effort has yet been
+produced so far as we know here.  Last night at 10.15 P. M. when it
+was dark as a rainy night without a moon could be, a furious
+cannonade soon joined in by a heavy musketry fire opened near
+Petersburg and lasted about two hours.  The sound was very distinct
+here as also were the flashes of the guns up the clouds.  It seemed
+to me a great battle, but the older hands here scarcely noticed it
+and sure enough this morning it was found that very little had been
+done.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA1 March 31, 1865.3 P.M.
+
+SECRETARY STANTON:
+
+At 12.30 P.M. to-day General Grant telegraphed me as follows:
+"There has been much hard fighting this morning.  The enemy drove our
+left from near Dabney's house back well toward the Boydton plank
+road.  We are now about to take the offensive at that point, and I
+hope will more than recover the lost ground."
+
+Later he telegraphed again as follows:
+"Our troops, after being driven back to the Boydton plank road,
+turned and drove the enemy in turn, and took the White Oak road,
+which we now have.  This gives us the ground occupied by the enemy
+this morning.  I will send you a rebel flag captured by our troops in
+driving the enemy back.  There have been four flags captured to-day."
+
+Judging by the two points from which General Grant telegraphs, I
+infer that he moved his headquarters about one mile since he sent the
+first of the two despatches.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+CITY POINT, April 1, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Yours to Colonel Bowers about the Secretary of War is shown to me.
+He is not here, nor have I any notice that he is coming.  I presume
+the mistake comes of the fact that the Secretary of State was here.
+He started back to Washington this morning.  I have your two
+despatches of this morning, and am anxious to hear from Sheridan.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, April 1, 1865.  12.50 P.M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D.C.:
+
+I have had two despatches from General Grant since my last to you,
+but they contain little additional, except that Sheridan also had
+pretty hot work yesterday, that infantry was sent to his support
+during the night, and that he (Grant) has not since heard from
+Sheridan.
+
+Mrs. Lincoln has started home, and I will thank you to see that our
+coachman is at the Arsenal wharf at eight o'clock to-morrow morning,
+there to wait until she arrives.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+CITY POINT, VA., April, 1865.  5.30 ?.M.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Secretary of State, Fort Monroe:
+
+Despatch just received, showing that Sheridan, aided by Warren, had,
+at 2 P.M., pushed the enemy back, so as to retake the Five Forks and
+bring his own headquarters up to J. Boisseau's.  The Five Forks were
+barricaded by the enemy and carried by Devin's division of cavalry.
+This part of the enemy seem to now be trying to work along the White
+Oak road, to join the main force in front of Grant, while Sheridan
+and Warren are pressing them as closely as possible.
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+CITY POINT, April 1, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Yours showing Sheridan's success of to-day is just received and
+highly appreciated.  Having no great deal to do here, I am still
+sending the substance of your despatches to the Secretary of War.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MRS. LINCOLN.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 2, 1865.  8.30 A.M. (Received 9 A.M.)
+
+MRS. A. LINCOLN, Executive Mansion:
+
+Last night General Grant telegraphed that General Sheridan with his
+cavalry and the Fifth Corps had captured three brigades of infantry,
+a train of wagons, and several batteries, prisoners amounting to
+several thousand.  This morning General Grant having ordered an
+attack along the whole line telegraphs as follows.
+
+Robert yesterday wrote a little cheerful note to Captain Penrose,
+which is all he has heard of him since you left.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAMS TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 2, 1865.  8.30 A.M.
+
+HON. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+Last night General Grant telegraphed that General Sheridan, with his
+cavalry and the Fifth Corps, had captured three brigades of infantry,
+a train of wagons, and several batteries; the prisoners amounting to
+several thousand.
+
+This morning General Grant, having ordered an attack along the whole
+line, telegraphs as follows:
+
+"Both Wright and Parke got through the enemy's lines.  The battle now
+rages furiously.  General Sheridan, with his cavalry, the Fifth
+corps, and Miles's Division of the Second Corps, which was sent to
+him this morning, is now sweeping down from the west.
+
+"All now looks highly favorable.  General Ord is engaged, but I have
+not yet heard the result in his front."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+CITY POINT, April 1.  11.00 A.M.
+
+Despatches are frequently coming in.  All is going on finely.
+Generals Parke, Wright, and Ord's lines are extending from the
+Appomattox to Hatcher's Run.  They have all broken through the
+enemy's intrenched lines, taking some forts, guns, and prisoners.
+Sheridan, with his own cavalry, the Fifth Corps, and part of the
+Second, is coming in from the west on the enemy's flank.  Wright is
+already tearing up the Southside Railroad.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 2.  2 P.M.
+
+At 10.45 A.M. General Grant telegraphs as follows:
+
+"Everything has been carried from the left of the Ninth Corps.  The
+Sixth Corps alone captured more than three thousand prisoners.  The
+Second and Twenty-fourth Corps captured forts, guns, and prisoners
+from the enemy, but I cannot tell the numbers.  We are now closing
+around the works of the line immediately enveloping Petersburg.  All
+looks remarkably well.  I have not yet heard from Sheridan.  His
+headquarters have been moved up to Banks's house, near the Boydton
+road, about three miles southwest of Petersburg."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 2.  8.30 P.M.
+
+At 4.30 P.M. to-day General Grant telegraphs as follows:
+
+"We are now up and have a continuous line of troops, and in a few
+hours will be intrenched from the Appomattox below Petersburg to the
+river above.  The whole captures since the army started out will not
+amount to less than twelve thousand men, and probably fifty pieces of
+artillery.  I do not know the number of men and guns accurately,
+however.  A portion of Foster's Division, Twenty Fourth Corps, made a
+most gallant charge this afternoon, and captured a very important
+fort from the enemy, with its entire garrison.  All seems well with
+us, and everything is quiet just now."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MRS. LINCOLN.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 1, 1865.
+
+MRS. LINCOLN:
+
+At 4.30 P.M. to-day General Grant telegraphs that he has Petersburg
+completely enveloped from river below to river above, and has
+captured, since he started last Wednesday, about twelve thousand
+prisoners and fifty guns.  He suggests that I shall go out and see
+him in the morning, which I think I will do.  Tad and I are both
+well, and will be glad to see you and your party here at the time you
+name.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+CITY POINT, April 2, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Allow me to tender to you and all with you the nation's grateful
+thanks for this additional and magnificent success.  At your kind
+suggestion I think I will meet you to-morrow.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 3, 1865.8.30 A.M.
+
+HON. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+This morning Lieutenant-General Grant reports Petersburg evacuated,
+and he is confident that Richmond also is.   He is pushing forward to
+cut off, if possible, the retreating rebel army.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 3, 1865.  5 P.M.
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+Yours received.  Thanks for your caution, but I have already been to
+Petersburg.  Staid with General Grant an hour and a half and returned
+here.  It is certain now that Richmond is in our hands, and I think I
+will go there to-morrow.  I will take care of myself.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 4, 1865
+(Received 8.45 A.M.)
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+General Weitzel telegraphs from Richmond that of railroad stock he
+found there twenty-eight locomotives, forty-four passenger and
+baggage cars, and one hundred and six freight cars.  At 3.30 this
+evening General Grant, from Sutherland's Station, ten miles from
+Petersburg toward Burkevllle, telegraphs as follows:
+
+General Sheridan picked up twelve hundred prisoners to-day, and from
+three hundred to five hundred more have been gathered by other
+troops.  The majority of the arms that were left in the hands of the
+remnant of Lee's army are now scattered between Richmond and where
+his troops are.  The country is also full of stragglers; the line of
+retreat marked with artillery, ammunition, burned or charred wagons,
+caissons, ambulances, etc."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+CITY POINT, APRIL 5, 1865.
+(Received 11.55 PM.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF STATE:
+
+Yours of to-day received.  I think there is no probability of my
+remaining here more than two days longer.  If that is too long come
+down.  I passed last night at Richmond and have just returned.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES,
+CITY POINT, April 6, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, in the Field:
+
+Secretary Seward was thrown from his carriage yesterday and seriously
+injured.  This, with other matters, will take me to Washington soon.
+I was at Richmond yesterday and the day before, when and where Judge
+Campbell, who was with Messrs.  Hunter and Stephens in February,
+called on me, and made such representations as induced me to put in
+his hands an informal paper, repeating the propositions in my letter
+of instructions to Mr. Seward, which you remember, and adding that if
+the war be now further persisted in by the rebels, confiscated
+property shall at the least bear the additional cost, and that
+confiscation shall be remitted to the people of any State which will
+now promptly and in good faith withdraw its troops and other support
+from resistance to the Government.
+
+Judge Campbell thought it not impossible that the rebel legislature
+of Virginia would do the latter if permitted; and accordingly I
+addressed a private letter to General Weitzel, with permission to
+Judge Campbell to see it, telling him (General Weitzel) that if they
+attempt this, to permit and protect them, unless they attempt
+something hostile to the United States, in which case to give them
+notice and time to leave, and to arrest any remaining after such
+time.
+
+I do not think it very probable that anything win come of this, but I
+have thought best to notify you so that if you should see signs you
+may understand them.
+
+>From your recent despatches it seems that you are pretty effectually
+withdrawing the Virginia troops from opposition to the Government.
+Nothing that I have done, or probably shall do, is to delay, hinder,
+or interfere with your work.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. WEITZEL.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES
+CITY POINT, April 6, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL WEITZEL, Richmond, Va.:
+
+It has been intimated to me that the gentlemen who have acted as the
+legislature of Virginia in support of the rebellion may now desire to
+assemble at Richmond and take measures to withdraw the Virginia
+troops and other support from resistance to the General Government.
+If they attempt it, give them permission and protection, until, if at
+all, they attempt some action hostile to the United States, in which
+case you will notify them, give them reasonable time to leave) and at
+the end of which time arrest any who remain.  Allow Judge Campbell to
+see this, but do not make it public.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 7, 1865
+(Received 10.30 AM.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+At  11.15 P.M. yesterday at Burkesville Station, General Grant sends
+me the following from General Sheridan:
+
+April 6,  11.15 P.M.
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+I have the honor to report that the enemy made a stand at the
+intersection of the Burks Station road with the road upon which they
+were retreating.  I attacked them with two divisions of the Sixth
+Army Corps and routed them handsomely, making a connection with the
+cavalry.  I am still pressing on with both cavalry and infantry.  Up
+to the present time we have captured Generals Ewell, Kershaw, Button,
+Corse, DeBare, and Custis Lee, several thousand prisoners, fourteen
+pieces of artillery with caissons and a large number of wagons.   If
+the thing is pressed I think Lee will surrender.
+P. H. SHERIDAN,
+Major-General, Commanding."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES,
+
+CITY POINT, April 7, 11 A.M., 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Gen.  Sheridan says:
+
+"If the thing is pressed I think that Lee will surrender."
+
+Let the thing be pressed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+NOTE ON A CARD TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+April 10, 1865.
+
+Tad wants some flags--can he be accommodated?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A CALL,
+
+APRIL 10, 1865
+
+If the company had assembled by appointment, some mistake had crept
+in their understanding.  He had appeared before a larger audience
+than this one to-day, and he would repeat what he then said, namely,
+he supposed owing to the great, good news, there would be some
+demonstration.  He would prefer to-morrow evening, when he should be
+quite willing, and he hoped ready, to say something.  He desired to
+be particular, because every thing he said got into print.  Occupying
+the position he did, a mistake would produce harm, and therefore he
+wanted to be careful not to make a mistake.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. H. GORDON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 11, 1865.
+
+BRIG. GEN. G. H. GORDON, Norfolk, Va.:
+
+Send to me at once a full statement as to the cause or causes for
+which, and by authority of what tribunal George W. Lane, Charles
+Whitlock, Ezra Baler, J. M. Renshaw, and others are restrained of
+their liberty. Do this promptly and fully.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CLOSING CERTAIN PORTS,
+APRIL 11, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+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
+
+Whereas by the fourth 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," the
+President, for the reasons therein set forth, is authorized to close
+certain ports of entry:
+
+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 (Shieldsboro), 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 parts 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.
+
+In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of
+the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this eleventh day of April, A.D.,
+1865, and of the independence of the United States of America, the
+eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OPENING THE PORT OF KEY WEST,
+
+APRIL 11, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this eleventh day of April, A.D.
+1865, and of the independence of the United States of America the
+eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CLAIMING EQUALITY OF RIGHTS
+WITH ALL MARITIME NATIONS,
+
+APRIL 11, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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 community 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.......
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed..................
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+LAST PUBLIC ADDRESS,
+
+APRIL 11, 1865
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS--We meet this evening not in sorrow, but in gladness
+of heart.  The evacuation of Petersburg and Richmond, and the
+surrender of the principal insurgent army, give hope of a righteous
+and speedy peace, whose joyous expression cannot be restrained.  In
+the midst of this, however, He from whom  blessings flow must not be
+forgotten.
+
+A call for a national thanksgiving is being prepared, and will be
+duly promulgated.  Nor must those whose harder part gives us the
+cause of rejoicing be overlooked.  Their honors must not be parceled
+out with others.  I myself was near the front, and had the pleasure
+of transmitting much of the good news to you.  But no part of the
+honor for plan or execution is mine.  To General Grant, his skillful
+officers, and brave men, all belongs.  The gallant navy stood ready,
+but was not in reach to take active part.  By these recent successes,
+the reinauguration of the national authority--reconstruction  which
+has had a large share of thought from the first, is pressed much more
+closely upon our attention.  It is fraught with great difficulty.
+Unlike a case of war between independent nations, there is no
+authorized organ for us to treat with--no one man has authority to
+give up the rebellion for any other man.  We simply must begin with
+and mould from disorganized and discordant elements.  Nor is it a
+small additional embarrassment that we, the loyal people, differ
+among ourselves as to the mode, manner, and measure of
+reconstruction.  As a general rule, I abstain from reading the
+reports of attacks upon myself, Wishing not to be provoked by that to
+which I cannot properly offer an answer.  In spite of this
+precaution, however, it comes to my knowledge that I am much censured
+for some supposed agency in setting up and seeking to sustain the new
+State government of Louisiana.   In this I have done just so much and
+no more than the public knows.  In the Annual Message of December,
+1863, and the accompanying proclamation, I presented a plan of
+reconstruction, as the phrase goes, which I promised, if adopted by
+any State, would be acceptable to and sustained by the Executive
+Government of the nation.  I distinctly stated that this was not the
+only plan that might possibly be acceptable, and I also distinctly
+protested that the Executive claimed no right to say when or whether
+members should be admitted to seats in Congress from such States.
+This plan was in advance submitted to the then Cabinet, and approved
+by every member of it.  One of them suggested that I should then and
+in that connection apply the Emancipation Proclamation to the
+theretofore excepted parts of Virginia and Louisiana; that I should
+drop the suggestion about apprenticeship for freed people, and that I
+should omit the protest against my own power in regard to the
+admission of members of Congress.  But even he approved every part
+and parcel of the plan which has since been employed or touched by
+the action of Louisiana.   The new constitution of Louisiana,
+declaring emancipation for the whole State, practically applies the
+proclamation to the part previously excepted.  It does not adopt
+apprenticeship for freed people, and is silent, as it could not well
+be otherwise, about the admission of members to Congress.  So that,
+as it applied to Louisiana, every member of the Cabinet fully
+approved the plan.  The message went to Congress, and I received many
+commendations of the plan, written and verbal, and not a single
+objection to it from any professed emancipationist came to my
+knowledge until after the news reached Washington that the people of
+Louisiana had begun to move in accordance with it.  From about July,
+1862, I had corresponded with different persons supposed to be
+interested in seeking a reconstruction of a State government for
+Louisiana.  When the message of 1863, with the plan before mentioned,
+reached New Orleans, General Banks wrote me that he was confident
+that the people, with his military co-operation, would reconstruct
+substantially on that plan.  I wrote to him and some of them to try
+it.  They tried it, and the result is known.  Such has been my only
+agency in getting up the Louisiana government.  As to sustaining it
+my promise is out, as before stated.  But, as bad promises are better
+broken than kept, I shall treat this as a bad promise and break it,
+whenever I shall be convinced that keeping it is adverse to the
+public interest; but I have not yet been so convinced.  I have been
+shown a letter on this subject, supposed to be an able one, in which
+the writer expresses regret that my mind has not seemed to be
+definitely fixed upon the question whether the seceded States, so
+called, are in the Union or out of it.  It would perhaps add
+astonishment to his regret were he to learn that since I have found
+professed Union men endeavoring to answer that question, I have
+purposely forborne any public expression upon it.  As appears to me,
+that question has not been nor yet is a practically material one, and
+that any discussion of it, while it thus remains practically
+immaterial, could have no effect other than the mischievous one of
+dividing our friends.  As yet, whatever it may become, that question
+is bad as the basis of a controversy, and good for nothing at all--a
+merely pernicious abstraction.  We all agree that the seceded States,
+so called, are out of their proper practical relation with the Union,
+and that the sole object of the Government, civil and military, in
+regard to those States, is to again get them into their proper
+practical relation.  I believe that it is not only possible, but in
+fact easier, to do this without deciding or even considering whether
+those States have ever been out of the Union, than with it.  Finding
+themselves safely at home, it would be utterly immaterial whether
+they had been abroad.  Let us all join in doing the acts necessary to
+restore the proper practical relations between these States and the
+Union, and each forever after innocently indulge his own opinion
+whether, in doing the acts he brought the States from without into
+the Union, or only gave them proper assistance, they never having
+been out of it.  The amount of constituency, so to speak, on which
+the Louisiana government rests, would be more satisfactory to all if
+it contained fifty thousand, or thirty thousand, or even twenty
+thousand, instead of twelve thousand, as it does.  It is also
+unsatisfactory to some that the elective franchise is not given to
+the colored man.  I would myself prefer that it were now conferred on
+the very intelligent, and on those who serve our cause as soldiers.
+Still, the question is not whether the Louisiana government, as it
+stands, is quite all that is desirable.  The question is, Will it be
+wiser to take it as it is and help to improve it, or to reject and
+disperse?  Can Louisiana be brought into proper practical relation
+with the Union sooner by sustaining or by discarding her new State
+government? Some twelve thousand voters in the heretofore Slave State
+of Louisiana have sworn allegiance to the Union, assumed to be the
+rightful political power of the State, held elections, organized a
+State government, adopted a Free State constitution, giving the
+benefit of public schools equally to black and white, and empowering
+the Legislature to confer the elective franchise upon the colored
+man.  This Legislature has already voted to ratify the Constitutional
+Amendment recently passed by Congress, abolishing slavery throughout
+the nation.  These twelve thousand persons are thus fully committed
+to the Union and to perpetuate freedom in the State--committed to the
+very things, and nearly all things, the nation wants--and they ask
+the nation's recognition and its assistance to make good this
+committal.  Now, if we reject and spurn them, we do our utmost to
+disorganize and disperse them.   We, in fact, say to the white man:
+You are worthless or worse; we will neither help you nor be helped by
+you.  To the blacks we say:  This cup of liberty which these, your
+old masters, held to your lips, we will dash from you, and leave you
+to the chances of gathering the spilled and scattered contents in
+some vague and undefined when, where, and how.  If this course,
+discouraging and paralyzing both white and black, has any tendency to
+bring Louisiana into proper practical relations with the Union, I
+have so far been unable to perceive it.  If, on the contrary, we
+recognize and sustain the new government of Louisiana, the converse
+of all this is made true.  We encourage the hearts and nerve the arms
+of twelve thousand to adhere to their work, and argue for it, and
+proselyte for it, and fight for it, and feed it, and grow it, and
+ripen it to a complete success.  The colored man, too, in seeing all
+united for him, is inspired with vigilance, and energy, and daring to
+the same end.  Grant that he desires the elective franchise, will he
+not attain it sooner by saving the already advanced steps towards it,
+than by running backward over them? Concede that the new government
+of Louisiana is only to what it should be as the egg is to the fowl,
+we shall sooner have the fowl by hatching the egg than by smashing
+it.  Again, if we reject Louisiana, we also reject one vote in favor
+of the proposed amendment to the National Constitution.   To meet
+this proposition, it has been argued that no more than three fourths
+of those States which have not attempted secession are necessary to
+validly ratify the amendment.  I do not commit myself against this,
+further than to say that such a ratification would be questionable,
+and sure to be persistently questioned, while a ratification by three
+fourths of all the States would be unquestioned and unquestionable.
+I repeat the question, Can Louisiana be brought into proper practical
+relation with the Union sooner by sustaining or by discarding her new
+State government?  What has been said of Louisiana will apply to
+other States.  And yet so great peculiarities pertain to each State,
+and such important and sudden changes occur in the same State, and
+withal so new and unprecedented is the whole case, that no exclusive
+and inflexible plan can safely be prescribed as to details and
+collaterals.  Such exclusive and inflexible plan would surely become
+a new entanglement.  Important principles may and must be inflexible.
+In the present situation as the phrase goes, it may be my duty to
+make some new announcement to the people of the South.  I am
+considering, and shall not fail to act, when satisfied that action
+will be proper.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. WEITZEL.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., April 12, 1865.
+MAJOR-GENERAL WEITZEL, Richmond, Va.:
+
+I have seen your despatch to Colonel Hardie about the matter of
+prayers. I do not remember hearing prayers spoken of while I was in
+Richmond; but I have no doubt you have acted in what appeared to you
+to be the spirit and temper manifested by me while there.  Is there
+any sign of the rebel legislature coming together on the
+understanding of my letter to you?  If there is any such sign, inform
+me what it is; if there is no such sign, you may withdraw the offer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. WEITZEL.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., April 12, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL WEITZEL, Richmond, Va.:
+
+I have just seen Judge Campbell's letter to you of the 7th.  He
+assumes, as appears to me, that I have called the insurgent
+legislature of Virginia together, as the rightful legislature of the
+State, to settle all differences with the United States.  I have done
+no such thing.  I spoke of them, not as a legislature, but as "the
+gentlemen who have acted as the legislature of Virginia in support of
+the rebellion." I did this on purpose to exclude the assumption that
+I was recognizing them as a rightful body.  I deal with them as men
+having power de facto to do a specific thing, to wit: "To withdraw
+the Virginia troops and other support from resistance to the General
+Government," for which, in the paper handed Judge Campbell, I
+promised a specific equivalent, to wit: a remission to the people of
+the State, except in certain cases, of the confiscation of their
+property.  I meant this, and no more.  Inasmuch, however, as Judge
+Campbell misconstrues this, and is still pressing for an armistice,
+contrary to the explicit statement of the paper I gave him, and
+particularly as General Grant has since captured the Virginia troops,
+so that giving a consideration for their withdrawal is no longer
+applicable, let my letter to you and the paper to Judge Campbell both
+be withdrawn, or countermanded, and he be notified of it.  Do not now
+allow them to assemble, but if any have come, allow them safe return
+to their homes.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INTERVIEW WITH SCHUYLER COLFAX ON THE MORNING OF APRIL 14, 1865.
+
+Mr. Colfax, I want you to take a message from me to the miners whom
+you visit.  I have very large ideas of the mineral wealth of our
+nation.  I believe it practically inexhaustible.  It abounds all over
+the Western country, from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific, and its
+development has scarcely commenced.  During the war, when we were
+adding a couple of millions of dollars every day to our national
+debt, I did not care about encouraging the increase in the volume of
+our precious metals.  We had the country to save first.  But now that
+the rebellion is overthrown, and we know pretty nearly the amount of
+our national debt, the more gold and silver we mine, we make the
+payment of that debt so much the easier.  Now," said he, speaking
+with more emphasis, "I am going to encourage that in every possible
+way.  We shall have hundreds of thousands of disbanded soldiers, and
+many have feared that their return home in such great numbers might
+paralyze industry, by furnishing, suddenly, a greater supply of labor
+than there will be demand for.  I am going to try to attract them to
+the hidden wealth of our mountain ranges, where there is room enough
+for all.  Immigration, which even the war has not stopped, will land
+upon our shores hundreds of thousands more per year from overcrowded
+Europe.  I intend to point them to the gold and silver that wait for
+them in the West.  Tell the miners for me, that I shall promote their
+interests to the utmost of my ability; because their prosperity is
+the prosperity of the nation; and," said he, his eye kindling with
+enthusiasm, "we shall prove, in a very few years, that we are indeed
+the treasury of the world."
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL VAN ALLEN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+April 14, 1865
+
+GENERAL VAN ALLEN:
+
+I intend to adopt the advice of my friends and use due precaution....
+I thank you for the assurance you give me that I shall be
+supported by conservative men like yourself, in the efforts I may
+make to restore the Union, so as to make it, to use your language, a
+Union of hearts and hands as well as of States.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LINCOLN'S LAST WRITTEN WORDS
+
+Allow Mr. Ashmer and friend to come in at 9 A.M. to-morrow.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+April 14, 1865
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg Etext of The Writings of Abraham Lincoln, Vol 7
+End of Project Gutenberg Etext of The Writings of Abraham Lincoln
+
+[Note. . .there was a Volume 8 in this particular edition. . .but it was a
+reprint of a much earlier work ABOUT Lincoln, not BY Lincoln, so left out]
+
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+The Project Gutenberg Etext of The Writings of Abraham Lincoln, v7
+#7 in our series of the Writings of Abraham Lincoln
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+Title: The Writings of Abraham Lincoln, v7
+
+Author: Abraham Lincoln
+
+Release Date: June, 2001 [Etext #2659]
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+[Most recently updated: December 4, 2001]
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+This etext was produced by David Widger  <widger@cecomet.net>
+
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+
+
+THE WRITINGS OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN, Volume Seven
+
+CONSTITUTIONAL EDITION
+
+
+
+
+OPINION ON THE LOSS OF
+GENERAL R. H. MILROY'S DIVISION.
+
+October 27, 1863.
+
+In June last a division was substantially lost at or near Winchester,
+Va.  At the time, it was under General Milroy as immediate commander
+in the field, General Schenck as department commander at Baltimore,
+and General Halleck as general-in-chief at Washington.
+
+General Milroy, as immediate commander, was put in arrest, and
+subsequently a court of inquiry examined chiefly with reference to
+disobedience of orders, and reported the evidence.
+
+The foregoing is a synoptical statement of the evidence, together
+with the judge-advocate-general's conclusions.  The disaster, when it
+came, was a surprise to all.  It was very well known to Generals
+Shenck and Milroy for some time before, that General Halleck thought
+the division was in great danger of a surprise at Winchester; that it
+was of no service commensurate with the risk it incurred, and that it
+ought to be withdrawn; but, although he more than once advised its
+withdrawal, he never positively ordered it.  General Schenck, on the
+contrary, believed the service of the force at Winchester was worth
+the hazard, and so did not positively order its withdrawal until it
+was so late that the enemy cut the wire and prevented the order
+reaching General Milroy.
+
+General Milroy seems to have concurred with General Schenck in the
+opinion that the force should be kept at Winchester at least until
+the approach of danger, but he disobeyed no order upon the subject.
+
+Some question can be made whether some of General Halleck's
+dispatches to General Schenk should not have been construed to be
+orders to withdraw the force, and obeyed accordingly; but no such
+question can be made against General Milroy.  In fact, the last order
+he received was to be prepared to withdraw, but not to actually
+withdraw until further order, which further order never reached him.
+
+Serious blame is not necessarily due to any serious disaster, and I
+cannot say that in this case any of the officers are deserving of
+serious blame.  No court-martial is deemed necessary or proper in the
+case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL SCHOFIELD.
+
+Private and confidential
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, October 28, 1863.
+
+GENERAL JOHN M. SCHOFIELD:
+
+There have recently reached the War Department, and thence been laid
+before me, from Missouri, three communications, all similar in import
+and identical in object.  One of them, addressed to nobody, and
+without place or date, but having the signature of (apparently) the
+writer, is a letter of eight closely written foolscap pages.  The
+other two are written by a different person, at St. Joseph, Mo., and
+of the dates, respectively, October 12 and 13, 1863, and each
+inclosing a large number of affidavits.  The general statements of
+the whole are that the Federal and State authorities are arming the
+disloyal and disarming the loyal, and that the latter will all be
+killed or driven out of the State unless there shall be a change.  In
+particular, no loyal man who has been disarmed is named, but the
+affidavits show by name forty-two persons as disloyal who have been
+armed.  They are as follows: [The names are omitted.]
+
+A majority of these are shown to have been in the rebel service.  I
+believe it could be shown that the government here has deliberately
+armed more than ten times as many captured at Gettysburg, to say
+nothing of similar operations in East Tennessee.  These papers
+contain altogether thirty--one manuscript pages, and one newspaper in
+extenso, and yet I do not find it anywhere charged in them that any
+loyal man has been harmed by reason of being disarmed, or that any
+disloyal one has harmed anybody by reason of being armed by the
+Federal or State Government.  Of course, I have not had time to
+carefully examine all; but I have had most of them examined and
+briefed by others, and the result is as stated.  The remarkable fact
+that the actual evil is yet only anticipated--inferred--induces me to
+suppose I understand the case; but I do not state my impression,
+because I might be mistaken, and because your duty and mine is plain
+in any event.  The locality of nearly all this seems to be St.
+Joseph and Buchanan County.   I wish you to give special attention to
+this region, particularly on election day.  Prevent violence from
+whatever quarter, and see that the soldiers themselves do no wrong.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+[Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., October 28, 1863.
+
+HON. ANDREW JOHNSON, Nashville, Tenn.:
+If not too inconvenient, please come at once and have a personal
+conversation with me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO VICE-PRESIDENT HAMLIN.
+
+AN ACT TO REGULATE THE DUTIES OF THE CLERK OF THE HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES IN PREPARING FOR THE ORGANIZATION OF THE HOUSE.
+
+Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+United States of America in Congress assembled, that, before the
+first meeting of the next Congress, and of every subsequent Congress,
+the clerk of the next preceding House of Representatives shall make a
+roll of the Representatives elect, and place thereon the names of all
+persons, and of such persons only, whose credentials show that they
+were regularly elected in accordance with the laws of their States
+respectively, or the laws of the United States.
+
+Approved March 3, 1863.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. W. GRIMES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D.C., October 29, 1863.
+
+HON. JAMES W. GRIMES.
+
+MY DEAR SIR :--The above act of Congress was passed, as I suppose,
+for the purpose of shutting out improper applicants for seats in the
+House of Representatives; and I fear there is some danger that it
+will be used to shut out proper ones.  Iowa, having an entire Union
+delegation, will be one of the States the attempt will be made, if
+upon any.  The Governor doubtless has made out the certificates, and
+they are already in the hands of the members.  I suggest that they
+come on with them; but that, for greater caution, you, and perhaps
+Mr. Harlan with you, consult with the Governor, and have an
+additional set made out according to the form on the other half of
+this sheet; and still another set, if you can, by studying the law,
+think of a form that in your judgment, promises additional security,
+and quietly bring the whole on with you, to be used in case of
+necessity.  Let what you do be kept still.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO P. F. LOWE.
+[Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., October 30, 1863.
+
+HON. F. F. LOWE, San Francisco, Cal.:
+
+Below is an act of Congress, passed last session, intended to exclude
+applicants not entitled to seats, but which, there is reason to fear,
+will be used to exclude some who are entitled.  Please get with the
+Governor and one or two other discreet friends, study the act
+carefully, and make certificates m two or three forms, according to
+your best judgement, and have them sent to me, so as to multiply the
+chances of the delegation getting their seats.  Let it be done
+without publicity.  Below is a form which may answer for one.  If you
+could procure the same to be done for the Oregon member it might be
+well.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., October 30, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Much obliged for the information about deserters contained in your
+dispatch of yesterday, while I have to beg your pardon for troubling
+you in regard to some of them, when, as it appears by yours, I had
+the means of answering my own questions.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, October 31, 1863.
+
+The Provost-Marshal-General has issued no proclamation at all.  He
+has in no form announced anything recently in regard to troops in New
+York, except in his letter to Governor Seymour of October 21, which
+has been published in the newspapers of that State.  It has not been
+announced or decided in any form by the Provost-Marshal-General, or
+any one else in authority of the Government, that every citizen who
+has paid his three hundred dollars commutation is liable to be
+immediately drafted again, or that towns that have just raised the
+money to pay their quotas will have again to be subject to similar
+taxation or suffer the operations of the new conscription, nor it is
+probable that the like of them ever will be announced or decided.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO W. H. SEWARD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 1, 1863.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Auburn, N.Y.:
+
+No important news.  Details of Hooker's night fight do great credit
+to his command, and particularly to the Eleventh Corps and Geary's
+part of the Twelfth.  No discredit on any.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO POSTMASTER-GENERAL BLAIR.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 2, 1863.
+
+HON. MONTGOMERY BLAIR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Some days ago I understood you to say that your
+brother, General Frank Blair, desires 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 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 benefit of the
+country.
+
+This will heal a dangerous schism for him.  It will relieve him from
+a dangerous position or 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 time-servers 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 was my brother
+instead of yours.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR BRADFORD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 2, 1863.
+
+His EXCELLENCY A. W. BRADFORD, Governor of Maryland.
+
+SIR:--Yours of the 31st ult.  was received yesterday about noon, and
+since then I have been giving most earnest attention to the subject-
+matter of it.  At my call General Schenck has attended, and he
+assures me it is almost certain that violence will be used at some of
+the voting places on election day unless prevented by his provost-
+guards.  He says that at some of those places Union voters will not
+attend at all, or run a ticket, unless they have some assurance of
+protection.   This makes the Missouri case, of my action in regard to
+which you express your approval.
+
+The remaining point of your letter is a protest against any person
+offering to vote being put to any test not found in the laws of
+Maryland.  This brings us to a difference between Missouri and
+Maryland.  With the same reason in both States, Missouri has, by law,
+provided a test for the voter with reference to the present
+rebellion, while Maryland has not.  For example, General Trimble,
+captured fighting us at Gettysburg, is, without recanting his
+treason, a legal voter by the laws of Maryland.  Even General
+Schenck's order admits him to vote, if he recants upon oath.  I think
+that is cheap enough.  My order in Missouri, which you approve, and
+General Scherick's order here, reach precisely the same end.  Bach
+assures the right of voting to all loyal men, and whether a man is
+loyal, each allows that man to fix by his own oath.  Your suggestion
+that nearly all the candidates are loyal, I do not think quite meets
+the case.  In this struggle for the nation's life, I cannot so
+confidently rely on those whose elections may have depended upon
+disloyal votes.  Such men, when elected, may prove true; but such
+votes are given them in the expectation that they will prove false.
+
+Nor do I think that to keep the peace at the polls, and to prevent
+the persistently disloyal from voting, constitutes just cause of
+offense to Maryland.  I think she has her own example for it.  If I
+mistake not, it is precisely what General Dix did when your
+Excellency was elected Governor.
+
+I revoke the first of the three propositions in General Schenek's
+General Order No.  53; not that it is wrong in principle, but because
+the military, being of necessity exclusive judges as to who shall be
+arrested, the provision is too liable to abuse.  For the revoked part
+I substitute the following:
+
+That, all provost-marshals and other military officers do prevent all
+disturbance and violence at or about the polls, whether offered by
+such persons as above described, or by any other person or persons
+whomsoever.
+
+The other two propositions of the order I allow to stand.  General
+Schenek is fully determined, and has my strict orders besides, that
+all loyal men may vote, and vote for whom they please.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. H. HACKETT
+[Private.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+November 2, 1863.
+
+JAMES H. HACKETT.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Yours of October 22d is received, as also was, in due
+course, that of October 3d.  I look forward with pleasure to the
+fulfillment of the promise made in the former to visit Washington the
+following winter and to "call."
+
+Give yourself no uneasiness on the subject mentioned in that
+of the 22d.  My note to you I certainly did not expect to see in
+print, yet I have not been much shocked by the newspaper comments
+upon it.
+
+Those comments constitute a fair specimen of what has occurred
+to me through life.  I have endured a great deal of ridicule, without
+much malice; and have received a great deal of kindness not quite
+free from ridicule.  I am used to it.
+
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO W. H. SEWARD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, November 3, 1863.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Auburn, N. Y.:
+
+Nothing new.  Dispatches up to 12 last night from Chattanooga show
+all quiet and doing well.  How is your son?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 3, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Samuel Wellers, private in Company B, Forty-ninth Pennsylvania
+Volunteers, writes that he is to be shot for desertion on the 6th
+instant.  His own story is rather a bad one, and yet he tells it so
+frankly, that I am somewhat interested in him.  Has he been a good
+soldier except the desertion? About how old is he?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE, MANSION
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 5, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Please suspend the execution of Samuel Wellers, Forty-ninth
+Pennsylvania Volunteers, until further
+orders.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL A. E. BURNSIDE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, November 9, 1863.4 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURNSIDE, Knoxville, Tenn.:
+
+Have seen dispatch from General Grant about your loss at Rogersville.
+Per contra, about the same time, Averell and Duffle got considerable
+advantage of the enemy at and about Lewisburg, Virginia: and on
+Saturday, the seventh, Meade drove the enemy from Rappahannock
+Station and Kelly's Ford, capturing eight battle-flags, four guns,
+and over 1800 prisoners, with very little loss to himself.  Let me
+hear from you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. G. MEADE.
+WASHINGTON, November 9, 1863 7.30 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE:
+
+I have seen your dispatches about operations on the Rappahannock on
+Saturday, and I wish to say, "Well done!"  Do the 1500 prisoners
+reported by General Sedgwick include the 400 taken by General French,
+or do the Whole amount to 1900?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE EXPORT OF TOBACCO PURCHASED BY FOREIGN NATIONS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, November 10, 1863.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SCHOFIELD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 10, 1863.
+
+GENERAL SCHOFIELD, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+ I see a dispatch here from Saint Louis, which is a little difficult
+for me to understand.  It says "General Schofield has refused leave
+of absence to members in military service to attend the legislature.
+All such are radical and administration men.  The election of two
+Senators from this place on Thursday will probably turn upon this
+thing."  what does this mean? Of course members of the legislation
+must be allowed to attend its sessions.  But how is there a session
+before the recent election returns are in? And how is it to be at
+"this place"--and that is Saint Louis? Please inform me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SCHOFIELD.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 11, 1863.
+
+GENERAL SCHOFIELD, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+I believe the Secretary of War has telegraphed you about members of
+the legislation.  At all events, allow those in the service to attend
+the session, and we can afterward decide whether they can stay
+through the entire session.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HIRAM BARNEY.
+     [Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 11, 1863.
+
+HON. HIRAM BARNEY, New York;
+I would like an interview with you.  Can you not come?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. MILDERBORGER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 11, 1863.
+
+JOHN MILDERBORGER, Peru, Ind.:
+
+I cannot comprehend the object of your dispatch.  I do not often
+decline seeing people who call upon me, and probably will see you if
+you call.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM to E. H. AND E. JAMESON.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 13, 1863.
+
+E. H. and E. JAMESON, Jefferson City, Mo.:
+
+Yours saying Brown and Henderson are elected Senators is received. I
+understand this is one and one.  If so it is knocking heads together
+to some
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, November 14, 1863.  12.15 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Cincinnati, Ohio:
+
+I have received and considered your dispatch of yesterday.  Of the
+reports you mention, I have not the means of seeing any except your
+own.  Besides this, the publication might be improper in view of the
+court of inquiry which has been ordered.  With every disposition, not
+merely to do justice, but to oblige you, I feel constrained to say I
+think the publications better not be made now.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BURNSIDE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, November 16, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURNSIDE, Knoxville, Tenn.:
+
+What is the news?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY CHASE
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, November 17, 1863.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I expected to see you here at Cabinet meeting, and to
+say something about going to Gettysburg.  There will be a train to
+take and return us.  The time for starting is not yet fixed, but when
+it shall be I will notify you.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS AT GETTYSBURG
+
+NOVEMBER 19, 1863.
+
+Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this
+continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the
+proposition that all men are created equal.
+
+Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation
+or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure.  We are
+met on a great battle-field of that war.   We have come to dedicate a
+portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here
+gave their lives that that nation might live.   It is altogether
+fitting and proper that we should do this.
+
+But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate--we can not consecrate--
+we can not hallow--this ground.  The brave men, living and dead, who
+struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add
+or detract.  The world will little note, nor long remember what we
+say here, but it can never forget what they did here.  It is for us
+the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which
+they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced.  It is rather
+for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us--
+that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause
+for which they gave the last full measure of devotion that we here
+highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain--that this
+nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom--and that
+government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not
+perish from the earth.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 20, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+If there is a man by the name of King under sentence to be shot,
+please suspend execution till further order, and send record.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON. November 20, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+An intelligent woman in deep distress, called this morning, saying
+her husband, a lieutenant in the Army of Potomac, was to be shot next
+Monday for desertion, and putting a letter in my hand, upon which I
+relied for particulars, she left without mentioning a name or other
+particular by which to identify the case.  On opening the letter I
+found it equally vague, having nothing to identify by, except her own
+signature, which seems to be "Mrs. Anna S. King."  I could not again
+find her.  If you have a case which you shall think is probably the
+one intended, please apply my dispatch of this morning to it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO E. P. EVANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., November 23, 1863.
+
+E. P. EVANS, West Union, Adams County, Ohio:
+
+Yours to Governor Chase in behalf of John A Welch is before me.  Can
+there be a worse case than to desert and with letters persuading
+others to desert? I cannot interpose without a better showing than
+you make.  When did he desert? when did he write the letters?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 23, 1863.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Two despatches since I saw you; one not quite so late
+on firing as we had before, but giving the points that Burnside
+thinks he can hold the place, that he is not closely invested, and
+that he forages across the river.  The other brings the firing up to
+11 A.M. yesterday, being twenty-three hours later than we had before.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, November 25, 1863.  8.40 A.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL U.S. GRANT:
+
+Your despatches as to fighting on Monday and Tuesday are here.  Well
+done!  Many thanks to all.  Remember Burnside.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO C. P. KIRKLAND.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 7, 1863.
+
+CHARLES P. KIRKLAND, ESQ., New York:
+
+I have just received and have read your published letter to the HON.
+Benjamin R. Curtis.  Under the circumstances I may not be the most
+competent judge, but it appears to me to be a paper of great ability,
+and for the country's sake more than for my own I thank you for it.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANNOUNCEMENT OF UNION SUCCESS IN EAST TENNESSEE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+December 7, 1863.
+
+Reliable information being received that the insurgent force is
+retreating from East Tennessee, under circumstances rendering it
+probable that the Union forces cannot 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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OF AMNESTY AND RECONSTRUCTION
+DECEMBER 8, 1863.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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,
+
+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
+
+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
+
+Whereas the Congressional declaration for limited and conditional
+pardon accords with well-established judicial exposition of the
+pardoning power; and
+
+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
+
+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:
+
+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:
+
+"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."
+
+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.
+
+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 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."
+
+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.
+
+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 co and which may be deemed
+expedient by those framing the new State government.
+
+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 re-established 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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+ANNUAL MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+DECEMBER 8, 1863.
+
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES:--Another year of health, and of sufficiently
+abundant harvests, has passed.  For these, and especially for the
+improved condition cf our national affairs, our renewed and
+profoundest gratitude to God is due.
+
+We remain in peace and friendship with foreign powers.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 of 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The joint commission under the act of the last session of 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.
+
+Difficulties concerning interoceanic transit through Nicaragua are in
+course of amicable adjustment.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 estoppe
+against any plea of exemption from military service or other civil
+obligation on the ground of alienage.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The report of the Secretary of War is a document of great interest.
+It consists of:
+1.The military operations of the year, detailed in the report of the
+General in Chief.
+2.The organization of colored persons into the war service.
+3.The exchange of prisoners, fully set forth in the letter of General
+Hitchcock.
+4.The operations under the act for enrolling and calling out the
+national forces, detailed in the report of the Provost Marshal
+General.
+5.The organization of the invalid corps, and
+6.The operation of the several departments of the Quartermaster-
+General, Commissary-General, Paymaster-General, Chief of Engineers,
+Chief of Ordnance, and Surgeon-General.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The naval force of the United States consists at this time of five
+hundred and eighty-eight vessels completed and in the course of
+completion, and of these seventy-five 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 that those of 1863.
+The decrease since 1860 in the annual amount of transportation has
+been only about twenty-five per cent, but the annual expenditure on
+account of the same has been reduced thirty-five 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+I commend the benevolent institutions established or patronized by
+the Government in this District to your generous and fostering care.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 are 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, dispute now only as to the best mode of
+removing it within their own limits.
+
+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, criticized, 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.
+
+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.  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 promised a pardon only 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 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 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 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+WASHINGTON D. C., December 8, 1863.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend
+that Captain John Rogers 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 Fingal, alias
+Atlanta, whilst in command of the United States ironclad steamer
+Weehawken, 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.
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE SENATE.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 8, 1863.
+
+TO THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, December 8, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL GRANT:
+Understanding that your lodgment at Chattanooga and Knoxville is now
+secure, I wish to tender you, and all under your command, my more
+than thanks, my profoundest gratitude, for the skill, courage, and
+perseverance with which you and they, over so great difficulties,
+have effected that important object.  God bless you all!
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR CURTIN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 9, 1863
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY A. G. CURTIN,
+Governor of Pennsylvania.
+DEAR SIR:--I have to urge my illness, and the preparation of the
+message, in excuse for not having sooner transmitted you the inclosed
+from the Secretary of War and Provost Marshal General in response to
+yours in relation to recruiting in Pennsylvania.   Though not quite
+as you desire, I hope the grounds taken will be reasonably
+satisfactory to you.  Allow me to exchange congratulations with you
+on the organization of the House of Representatives, and especially
+on recent military events in Georgia and Tennessee.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 10, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Please suspend execution in any and all sentences of death in your
+department until further order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 11, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Lieut.  Col.  James B. Knox, Tenth Regiment Pennsylvania Reserves,
+offers his resignation under circumstances inducing me to wish to
+accept it.  But I prefer to know your pleasure upon the subject.
+Please answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO JUDGE HOFFMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+December 15, 1863.
+
+HON. OGDEN HOFFMAN, U. S. District Judge, San Francisco, Cal.:
+
+The oath in the proclamation of December 8 is intended for those who
+may voluntarily take it, and not for those who may be constrained to
+take it in order to escape actual imprisonment or punishment.  It is
+intended that the latter class shall abide the granting or
+withholding of the pardoning power in the ordinary way.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MARY GONYEAG.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 15, 1863.
+
+MOTHER MARY GONYEAG, Superior, Academy of Visitation,
+Keokuk, Iowa:
+
+The President has no authority as to whether you may raffle for the
+benevolent object you mention.  If there is no objection in the Iowa
+laws, there is none here.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING DISCRIMINATING DUTIES,
+DECEMBER 16, 1863.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+Whereas satisfactory evidence has lately been received by me through
+an official communication of Senor 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 second 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:
+
+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
+the 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.
+
+Given under my hand at the city of Washington, the sixteenth day of
+December, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and
+sixty-three, and the eighty-eighth of the Independence of the United
+States.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+DECEMBER 17, 1863.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL HURLBUT.
+[Cipher.]
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 17, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HURLBUT, Memphis, Tenn.:
+
+I understand you have under sentence of death, a tall old man, by the
+name of Henry F. Luckett.  I personally knew him, and did not think
+him a bad man.   Please do not let him be executed unless upon
+further order from me, and in the meantime send me a transcript of
+the record.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, December 19, 1863.
+
+GENERAL GRANT, Chattanooga, Tennessee:
+
+The Indiana delegation in Congress, or at least a large part of them,
+are very anxious that General Milroy shall enter active service
+again, and I share in this feeling.  He is not a difficult man to
+satisfy, sincerity and courage being his strong traits.  Believing in
+our cause, and wanting to fight for it, is the whole matter with him.
+Could you, without embarrassment, assign him a place, if directed to
+report to you?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+(Private.)
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 21, 1863.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Sending a note to the Secretary of the Navy, as I
+promised, he called over and said that the strikes in the ship-yards
+had thrown the completion of vessels back so much that he thought
+General Gilimore's proposition entirely proper.  He only wishes (and
+in which I concur) that General Gillmore will courteously confer
+with, and explain to, Admiral Dahlgren.
+
+In regard to the Western matter, I believe the program will have to
+stand substantially as I first put it.  Henderson, and especially
+Brown, believe that the social influence of St.  Louis would
+inevitably tell injuriously upon General Pope in the particular
+difficulty existing there, and I think there is some force in that
+view.
+
+As to retaining General Schofield temporarily, if this should be
+done, I believe I should scarcely be able to get his nomination
+through the Senate.  Send me over his nomination, which, however, I
+am not quite ready to send to the Senate.
+
+Yours as ever,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO O. D. FILLEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 22, 1863.
+
+O. D. FILLEY, ST. Louis, Missouri:
+
+I have just looked over a petition signed by some three dozen
+citizens of St.  Louis, and three accompanying letters, one by
+yourself, one by a Mr. Nathan Ranney, and one by a Mr. John D.
+Coalter, the whole relating to the Rev.  Dr. McPheeters.  The
+petition prays, in the name of justice and mercy, that I will restore
+Dr. McPheeters to all his ecclesiastical rights.   This gives no
+intimation as to what ecclesiastical rights are withheld.
+
+Your letter states that Provost-Marshal Dick, about a year ago,
+ordered the arrest of Dr. McPheeters, pastor of the Vine Street
+Church, prohibited him from officiating, and placed the management of
+the affairs of the church out of the control of its chosen trustees;
+and near the close you state that a certain course "would insure his
+release."  Mr. Ranney's letter says: "Dr. Samuel S. McPheeters is
+enjoying all the rights of a civilian, but cannot preach the
+Gospel!!!!"  Mr. Coalter, in his letter, asks: "Is it not a strange
+illustration of the condition of things, that the question of who
+shall be allowed to preach in a church in St. Louis shall be decided
+by the President of the United States?"
+
+Now, all this sounds very strangely; and, withal, a little as if you
+gentlemen making the application do not understand the case alike;
+one affirming that the doctor is enjoying all the rights of a
+civilian, and another pointing out to me what will secure his
+release! On the second day of January last, I wrote to General Curtis
+in relation to Mr. Dick's order upon Dr. McPheeters; and, as I
+suppose the doctor is enjoying all the rights of a civilian, I only
+quote that part of my letter which relates to the church.  It is as
+follows: "But I must add that the United States Government must not,
+as by this order, undertake to run the churches.  When an individual,
+in a church or out of it, becomes dangerous to the public interest,
+he must be checked; but the churches, as such, must take care of
+themselves.  It will not do for the United States to appoint
+trustees, supervisors, or other agents for the churches."
+
+This letter going to General Curtis, then in command there, I
+supposed, of course, it was obeyed, especially as I heard no further
+complaint from Dr. McPheeters or his friends for nearly an entire
+year.  I have never interfered, nor thought of interfering, as to who
+shall or shall not preach in any church; nor have I knowingly or
+believingly tolerated any one else to so interfere by my authority.
+If any one is so interfering by color of my authority, I would like
+to have it specifically made known to me.   If, after all, what is
+now sought is to have me put Dr. McPheeters back over the heads of a
+majority of his own congregation, that, too, will be declined.  I
+will not have control of any church on any side.
+
+Yours respectfully,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MILITARY COMMANDER AT POINT LOOKOUT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 22, 1863.
+
+MILITARY COMMANDER, Point Lookout, Md.:
+
+If you have a prisoner by the name Linder--Daniel Linder, I think,
+and certainly the son of U. F. Linder, of Illinois, please send him
+to me by an officer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MILITARY COMMANDER AT POINT LOOKOUT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 24, 1863.
+
+MILITARY COMMANDER, Point Lookout, Md.:
+
+If you send Linder to me as directed a day or two ago, also send
+Edwin C. Claybrook, of Ninth Virginia rebel cavalry.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO U. F. LINDER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON D. C., December 26, 1863.
+
+HON. U. F. LINDER, Chicago, Ill.:
+Your son Dan has just left me with my order to the Secretary of War,
+to administer to him the oath of allegiance, discharge him and send
+him to you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL N. P. BANKS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 29, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BANKS:
+
+Yours of the sixteenth is received, and I send you, as covering the
+ground of it, a copy of my answer to yours of the sixth, it being
+possible the original may not reach you.  I intend you to be master
+in every controversy made with you.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., December 30, 1863.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Jacob Bowers is fully pardoned for past offence, upon condition that
+he returns to duty and re-enlists for three years or during the war.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, December 31, 1863.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+SIR:--Please fix up the department to which Curtis is to go, without
+waiting to wind up the Missouri matter.  Lane is very anxious to have
+Fort Smith in it, and I am willing, unless there be decided military
+reasons to the contrary, in which case of course, I am not for it.
+It will oblige me to have the Curtis department fixed at once.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+1864
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SULLIVAN.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D.C., January 1, 1864.  3.30 p.m.
+
+GENERAL SULLIVAN, Harper's Ferry:
+
+Have you anything new from Winchester, Martinsburg or thereabouts?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR PIERPOINT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 2, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR PIERPOINT, Alexandria, Va.:
+
+Please call and see me to-day if not too inconvenient.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 2, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+SIR:--The Secretary of War and myself have concluded to discharge of
+the prisoners at Point Lookout the following classes: First, those
+who will take the oath prescribed in the proclamation of December 8,
+and issued by the consent of General Marston, will enlist in our
+service.  Second, those who will take the oath and be discharged and
+whose homes lie safely within our military lines.
+
+I send by Mr. Hay this letter and a blank-book and some other blanks,
+the way of using which I propose for him to explain verbally better
+than I can in writing.
+
+Yours, very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 5, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE:
+
+If not inconsistent with the service, please allow General William
+Harrow as long a leave of absence as the rules permit with the
+understanding that I may lengthen it if I see fit.  He is an
+acquaintance and friend of mine, and his family matters very urgently
+require his presence.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+JANUARY 5, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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 three hundred dollars 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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 6, 1864. 2 P.M.
+
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Kentucky:
+
+Yours of yesterday received.  Nothing is known here about General
+Foster's order, of which you complain, beyond the fair presumption
+that it comes from General Grant, and that it has an object which, if
+you understood, you would be loath to frustrate.  True, these troops
+are, in strict law, only to be removed by my order; but General
+Grant's judgment would be the highest incentive to me to make such
+order.  Nor can I understand how doing so is bad faith and dishonor,
+nor yet how it so exposes Kentucky to ruin.  Military men here do not
+perceive how it exposes Kentucky, and I am sure Grant would not
+permit it if it so appeared to him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL Q. A. GILLMORE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 13, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL GILLMORE:
+
+I understand an effort is being made by some worthy gentlemen to
+reconstruct a legal State government in Florida.   Florida is in your
+Department, and it is not unlikely you may be there in person.  I
+have given Mr. Hay a commission of major, and sent him to you, with
+some blank-books and other blanks, to aid in the reconstruction.  He
+will explain as to the manner of using the blanks, and also my
+general views on the subject.  It is desirable for all to co-operate,
+but if irreconcilable differences of opinion shall arise, you are
+master.  I wish the thing done in the most speedy way, so that when
+done it be within the range of the late proclamation on the subject.
+The detail labor will, of course, have to be done by others; but I
+will be greatly obliged if you will give it such general supervision
+as you can find consistent with your more strictly military duties.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BROUGH.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 15, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BROUGH, Columbus, Ohio:
+
+If Private William G. Toles, of Fifty-ninth Ohio Volunteers, returns
+to his regiment and faithfully serves out his term, he is fully
+pardoned for all military offenses prior to this.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO CROSBY AND NICHOLS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 16, 1864.
+
+MESSRS. CROSBY AND NICHOLS.
+
+GENTLEMEN: The number for this month and year of the North American
+Review was duly received, and for which please accept my thanks.  Of
+course I am not the most impartial judge; yet, with due allowance for
+this, I venture to hope that the article entitled "The President's
+Policy" will be of value to the country.  I fear I am not worthy of
+all which is therein kindly said of me personally.
+
+The sentence of twelve lines, commencing at the top of page 252, I
+could wish to be not exactly what it is.  In what is there expressed,
+the writer has not correctly understood me.  I have never had a
+theory that secession could absolve States or people from their
+obligations.  Precisely the contrary is asserted in the inaugural
+address; and it was because of my belief in the continuation of those
+obligations that I was puzzled, for a time, as to denying the legal
+rights of those citizens who remained individually innocent of
+treason or rebellion.  But I mean no more now than to merely call
+attention to this point.
+
+Yours respectfully,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL P. STEELE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 20, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE:
+
+Sundry citizens of the State of Arkansas petition me that an election
+may be held in that State, at which to elect a Governor; that it be
+assumed at that election, and thenceforward, that the constitution
+and laws of the State, as before the rebellion, are in full force,
+except that the constitution is so modified as to declare that there
+shall be neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except in the
+punishment of crimes whereof the party shall have been duly
+convicted; that the General Assembly may make such provisions for the
+freed people as shall recognize and declare their permanent freedom,
+and provide for their education, and which may yet be construed as a
+temporary arrangement suitable to their condition as a laboring,
+landless, and homeless class; that said election shall be held on the
+28th of March, 1864, at all the usual places of the State, or all
+such as voters may attend for that purpose, that the voters attending
+at eight o'clock in the morning of said day may choose judges and
+clerks of election for such purpose; that all persons qualified by
+said constitution and laws, and taking the oath presented in the
+President's proclamation of December 8, 1863, either before or at the
+election, and none others, may be voters; that each set of judges and
+clerks may make returns directly to you on or before the __th day of
+_____next; that in all other respects said election may be conducted
+according to said constitution and laws: that on receipt of said
+returns, when five thousand four hundred and six votes shall have
+been cast, you can receive said votes, and ascertain all who shall
+thereby appear to have been elected; that on the ___th day of
+_______next, all persons so appearing to have been elected, who shall
+appear before you at Little Rock, and take the oath, to be by you
+severally administered, to support the Constitution of the United
+States and said modified Constitution of the State of Arkansas, may
+be declared by you qualified and empowered to enter immediately upon
+the duties of the offices to which they shall have been respectively
+elected.
+
+You will please order an election to take place on the 28th of March,
+1864, and returns to be made in fifteen days thereafter.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS, JANUARY 20, 1864
+
+GENTLEMEN OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER APPROVING TRADE REGULATIONS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 26, 1864.
+
+I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States having seen and
+considered the additional regulations of trade prescribed by the
+Secretary of the Treasury, and numbered LI, LII, LIII, LIV, LV, and
+LVI, do hereby approve the same; and I further declare and order that
+all property brought in for sale, in good faith, and actually sold in
+pursuance of said Regulations LII, LIII, LIV, LV, and LVI,
+after the same shall have taken effect and come in force as provided
+in Regulation LVI, shall be exempt from confiscation or forfeiture to
+the United States.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL FOSTER.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., January 27, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL FOSTER, Knoxville, Tenn.:
+
+Is a supposed correspondence between General Longstreet and yourself
+about the amnesty proclamation, which is now in the newspapers,
+genuine?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO E. STANLEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 28, 1864
+
+HON. EDWARD STANLEY, San Francisco, Cal.:
+
+Yours of yesterday received.  We have rumors similar to the dispatch
+received by you, but nothing very definite from North Carolina.
+Knowing Mr. Stanley to be an able man, and not doubting that he is a
+patriot, I should be glad for him to be with his old acquaintances
+south of Virginia, but I am unable to suggest anything definite upon
+the subject.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL H. W. HALLECK.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, January 28, 1864.
+MAJOR-GENERAL HALLECK:
+
+Some citizens of Missouri, vicinity of Kansas City, are apprehensive
+that there is special danger of renewed troubles in that
+neighborhood, and thence on the route toward New Mexico.  I am not
+impressed that the danger is very great or imminent, but I will thank
+you to give Generals Rosecrans and Curtis, respectively, such orders
+as may turn their attention thereto and prevent as far as possible
+the apprehended disturbance.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SICKLES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 29, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SICKLES, New York:
+
+Could you, without it being inconvenient or disagreeable to yourself,
+immediately take a trip to Arkansas for me?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 31, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Ky.:
+
+General Boyle's resignation is accepted, so that your Excellency can
+give him the appointment proposed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+COLONIZATION EXPERIMENT
+
+ORDER TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 1, 1864
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER FOR A DRAFT OF FIVE HUNDRED
+THOUSAND MEN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 1, 1864.
+
+Ordered, That a draft of five hundred thousand (500,000) men, to
+serve for three years or during the war, be made on the tenth (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 first (1st) day of March,
+and not before credited.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR YATES.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 3, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR YATES, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+The United States Government lot in Springfield can be used for a
+soldiers' home, with the understanding that the Government does not
+incur any expense
+in the case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR MURPHY.
+WASHINGTON, February 6, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR J. MURPHY:
+
+My order to General Steele about an election was made in ignorance of
+the action your convention had taken or would take.  A subsequent
+letter directs General Steele to aid you on your own plan, and not to
+thwart or hinder you.  Show this to him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION
+
+TOLD BY THE PRESIDENT,
+TO THE ARTIST F. B. CARPENTER,
+FEBRUARY 6, 1864.
+
+It had got to be," said Mr. Lincoln, "midsummer, 1862.  Things had
+gone on from bad to worse, until I felt that we had reached the end
+of our rope on the plan of operations we had been pursuing; that we
+had about played our last card, and must change our tactics, or lose
+the game.  I now determined upon the adoption of the emancipation
+policy; and without consultation with, or the knowledge of, the
+Cabinet, I prepared the original draft of the proclamation, and,
+after much anxious thought, called a Cabinet meeting  upon  the
+subject.  This was the last of July or the first part of the month of
+August, 1862.   [The exact date was July 22, 1862.]  .  .  .  All
+were present excepting Mr. Blair, the Postmaster-General, who was
+absent at the opening of the discussion, but came in subsequently.  I
+said to the Cabinet that I had resolved upon this step, and had not
+called them together to ask their advice, but to lay the subject-
+matter of a proclamation before them, suggestions as to which would
+be in order after they had heard it read.   Mr. Lovejoy was in error
+when he informed you that it excited no comment excepting on the part
+of Secretary Seward.  Various suggestions were offered.  Secretary
+Chase wished the language stronger in reference to the arming of the
+blacks.
+
+"Mr. Blair, after he came in, deprecated the policy on the ground
+that it would cost the administration the fall elections.  Nothing,
+however, was offered that I had not already fully anticipated and
+settled in my mind, until Secretary Seward spoke.  He said in
+substance, 'Mr. President, I approve of the proclamation, but I
+question the expediency of its issue at this juncture.  The
+depression of the public mind, consequent upon our repeated reverses,
+is so great that I fear the effect of so important a step.  It may be
+viewed as the last measure of an exhausted government, a cry for
+help; the government stretching forth its hands to Ethiopia, instead
+of Ethiopia stretching forth her hands to the government.'  His
+idea," said the President, "was that it would be considered our last
+shriek on the retreat.  [This was his precise expression.]  'Now,'
+continued Mr. Seward, 'while I approve the measure, I suggest, sir,
+that you postpone its issue until you can give it to the country
+supported by military success, instead of issuing it, as would be the
+case now, upon the greatest disasters of the war.'  "Mr. Lincoln
+continued "The wisdom of the view of the Secretary of State struck me
+with very great force.  It was an aspect of the case that, in all my
+thought upon the subject, I had entirely overlooked.  The result was
+that I put the draft of the proclamation aside, as you do your sketch
+for a picture, waiting for a victory.
+
+"From time to time I added or changed a line, touching it up here and
+there, anxiously watching the process of events.  Well, the next news
+we had was of Pope's disaster at Bull Run.  Things looked darker than
+ever.  Finally came the week of the battle of Antietam.  I determined
+to wait no longer.   The news came, I think, on Wednesday, that the
+advantage was on our side.  I was then staying at the Soldiers' Home
+[three miles out of Washington].  Here I finished writing the second
+draft of the preliminary proclamation; came up on Saturday; called
+the Cabinet together to hear it, and it was published on the
+following Monday."
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SEDGWICK.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 11, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SEDGWICK, Army of Potomac:
+
+Unless there be some strong reason to the contrary, please send
+General Kilpatrick to us here, for two or three days.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HORACE MAYNARD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 13, 1864.
+
+HON. HORACE MAYNARD, Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+Your letter of [the] second received.  Of course Governor Johnson
+will proceed with reorganization as the exigencies of the case appear
+to him to require.  I do not apprehend he will think it necessary to
+deviate from my views to any ruinous extent.  On one hasty reading I
+see no such deviation in his program, which you send.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO W. M. FISHBACK.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, February 17, 1864.
+
+WILLIAM M. FISHBACK, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+When I fixed a plan for an election in Arkansas I did it in ignorance
+that your convention was doing the same work.  Since I learned the
+latter fact I have been constantly trying to yield my plan to them.
+I have sent two letters to General Steele, and three or four
+despatches to you and others, saying that he, General Steele, must be
+master, but that it will probably be best for him to merely help the
+convention on its own plan.  Some single mind must be master, else
+there will be no agreement in anything, and General Steele,
+commanding the military and being on the ground, is the best man to
+be that master.  Even now citizens are telegraphing me to postpone
+the election to a later day than either that fixed by the convention
+or by me.  This discord must be silenced.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL STEELE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 17, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+The day fixed by the convention for the election is probably the
+best, but you on the ground, and in consultation with gentlemen
+there, are to decide.  I should have fixed no day for an election,
+presented no plan for reconstruction, had I known the convention was
+doing the same things.  It is probably best that you merely assist
+the convention on their own plan, as to election day and all other
+matters I have already written and telegraphed this half a dozen
+times.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO A. ROBINSON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 18, 1864.
+
+A. ROBINSON, Leroy, N. Y.:
+
+The law only obliges us to keep accounts with States, or at most
+Congressional Districts, and it would overwhelm us to attempt in
+counties, cities and towns.  Nevertheless we do what we can to oblige
+in particular cases.  In this view I send your dispatch to the
+Provost-Marshal General, asking him to do the best he can for you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING BLOCKADE,
+FEBRUARY 18, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+Whereas, by my proclamation of the nineteenth of April, one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-one, 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
+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:
+
+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; sail-cloth of all kinds, hemp
+and cordage, intoxicating drinks other than beer and light native
+wines.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.  Done at the city of Washington,
+this eighteenth day of February, in the year of our Lord one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United
+States the eighty-eighth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COMMANDER BLAKE.
+EXECUTIVE, MANSION, February 19, 1864.
+
+COMMANDER GEORGE S. BLAKE,
+Commandant Naval Academy, Newport, R. I.:
+
+I desire the case of Midshipman C. Lyon re-examined and if not
+clearly inconsistent I shall be much obliged to have the
+recommendation changed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM WARREN JORDAN.
+NASHVILLE, February 20, 1864.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Secretary of State, Washington, D.C.:
+
+In county and State elections, must citizens of Tennessee take the
+oath prescribed by Governor Johnson, or will the President's oath of
+amnesty entitle them to vote? I have been appointed to hold the March
+election in Cheatham County, and wish to act understandingly.
+
+WARREN JORDAN.
+
+
+
+
+WASHINGTON, February 20, 1864.
+
+WARREN JORDAN, NASHVILLE:
+
+In county elections you had better stand by Governor Johnson's plan;
+otherwise you will have conflict and confusion.  I have seen his
+plan.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 22, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Saint LOUIS, MO.:
+
+Colonel Sanderson will be ordered to you to-day, a mere omission that
+it was not done before. The other questions in your despatch I am not
+yet prepared to answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL STEELE.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 22, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Ark.:
+
+Yours of yesterday received. Your conference with citizens approved.
+Let the election be on the i4th of March as they agreed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL F. STEELE.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, February 25, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+General Sickles is not going to Arkansas.  He probably will make a
+tour down the Mississippi and home by the gulf and ocean, but he will
+not meddle in your affairs.
+
+At one time I did intend to have him call on you and explain more
+fully than I could do by letter or telegraph, so as to avoid a
+difficulty coming of my having made a plan here, while the convention
+made one there, for reorganizing Arkansas; but even his doing that
+has been given up for more than two weeks.  Please show this to
+Governor Murphy to save me telegraphing him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+DESERTERS DEATH SENTENCES REMITTED
+
+GENERAL ORDERS, NO.76.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE,
+
+WASHINGTON, February 26, 1864.
+
+Sentence of Deserters.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Copies of all orders issued under the foregoing instructions will be
+immediately forwarded to the Adjutant-General and to the Judge-
+Advocate General.
+
+By order of the Secretary of War:
+B. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General
+
+
+
+
+FEMALE SPY
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 26, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort.  Monroe, Va.:
+
+I cannot remember at whose request it was that I gave the pass to
+Mrs. Bulky.  Of course detain her, if the evidence of her being a spy
+is strong against her.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO W. JAYNE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 26, 1864.
+
+HON. W. JAYNE.
+
+DEAR SIR--I dislike to make changes in office so long as they can be
+avoided.  It multiplies my embarrassments immensely.  I dislike two
+appointments when one will do.  Send me the name of some man not the
+present marshal, and I will nominate him to be Provost-Marshal for
+Dakota.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO E. H. EAST.
+
+WASHINGTON, February 27, 1864.
+
+HON. E. H: EAST, Secretary of State, Nashville, Tennessee
+
+Your telegram of the twenty-sixth instant asking for a copy of my
+despatch to Warren Jordan, Esq., at Nashville Press office, has just
+been referred to me by Governor Johnson.  In my reply to Mr. Jordan,
+which was brief and hurried, I intended to say that in the county and
+State elections of Tennessee, the oath prescribed in the proclamation
+of Governor Johnson on the twenty-sixth of January, 1864, ordering an
+election in Tennessee on the first Saturday in March next, is
+entirely satisfactory to me as a test of loyalty of all persons
+proposing or offering to vote in said elections; and coming from him
+would better be observed and followed.  There is no conflict between
+the oath of amnesty in my proclamation of eighth December, 1863, and
+that prescribed by Governor Johnson in his proclamation of the
+twenty-sixth ultimo.
+
+No person who has taken the oath of amnesty of eighth December, 1863,
+and obtained a pardon thereby, and who intends to observe the same in
+good faith, should have any objection to taking that prescribed by
+Governor Johnson as a test of loyalty.
+
+I have seen and examined Governor Johnson's proclamation, and am
+entirely satisfied with his plan, which is to restore the State
+government and place it under the control of citizens truly loyal to
+the Government of the United States.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+Please send above to Governor Johnson.
+A. L.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 27, 1864
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+SIR:--You ask some instructions from me in relation to the Report of
+Special Commission constituted by an order of the War Department,
+dated December 5, 1863, "to revise the enrolment and quotas of the
+City and State of New York, and report whether there be any, and
+what, errors or irregularities therein, and what corrections, if any,
+should be made."
+
+In the correspondence between the Governor of New York and myself
+last summer, I understood him to complain that the enrolments in
+several of the districts of that State had been neither accurately
+nor honestly made; and in view of this, I, for the draft then
+immediately ensuing, ordered an arbitrary reduction of the quotas in
+several of the districts wherein they seemed too large, and said:
+"After this drawing, these four districts, and also the seventeenth
+and twenty-ninth, shall be carefully re-enrolled, and, if you please,
+agents of yours may witness every step of the process."  In a
+subsequent letter I believe some additional districts were put into
+the list of those to be re-enrolled.  My idea was to do the work over
+according to the law, in presence of the complaining party, and
+thereby to correct anything which might be found amiss.  The
+commission, whose work I am considering, seem to have proceeded upon
+a totally different idea.  Not going forth to find men at all, they
+have proceeded altogether upon paper examinations and mental
+processes.  One of their conclusions, as I understand, is that, as
+the law stands, and attempting to follow it, the enrolling officers
+could not have made the enrolments much more accurately than they
+did.  The report on this point might be useful to Congress.  The
+commission conclude that the quotas for the draft should be based
+upon entire population, and they proceed upon this basis to give a
+table for the State of New York, in which some districts are reduced
+and some increased.  For the now ensuing draft, let the quotas stand
+as made by the enrolling officers, in the districts wherein this
+table requires them to be increased; and let them be reduced
+according to the table in the others: this to be no precedent for
+subsequent action.  But, as I think this report may, on full
+consideration, be shown to have much that is valuable in it, I
+suggest that such consideration be given it, and that it be
+especially considered whether its suggestions can be conformed to
+without an alteration of the law.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL THOMAS.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, February 28, 1864.
+
+GENERAL L. THOMAS, Louisville, Kentucky:
+
+I see your despatch of yesterday to the Secretary of War.
+
+I wish you would go to the Mississippi River at once, and take hold
+of and be master in the contraband and leasing business.  You
+understand it better than any other man does.  Mr. Miller's system
+doubtless is well intended, but from what I hear I fear that, if
+persisted in, it would fall dead within its own entangling details.
+Go there and be the judge.  A Mr. Lewis will probably follow you with
+something from me on this subject, but do not wait for him.  Nor is
+this to induce you to violate or neglect any military order from the
+General-in-Chief or Secretary of War.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY CHASE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 29, 1864.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I would have taken time to answer yours of the 22d
+inst. sooner, only that I did not suppose any evil could result from
+the delay, especially as, by a note, I promptly acknowledged the
+receipt of yours, and promised a fuller answer.  Now, on
+consideration I find there is really very little to say.  My
+knowledge of Mr. Pomeroy's letter having been made public came to me
+only the day you wrote; but I had, in spite of myself, known of its
+existence several days before.  I have not yet read it, and I think I
+shall not.  I was not shocked or surprised by the appearance of the
+letter, because I had had knowledge of Mr. Pomeroy's committee, and
+of secret issues which, I supposed, came from it, and of secret
+agents who, I supposed, were sent out by it for several weeks.  I
+have known just as little a these things as my friends have allowed
+me to know.  They bring the documents to me, but I do not read them;
+they tell me what they think fit to tell me, but I do not inquire for
+more.
+
+I fully concur with you that neither of us can justly be held
+responsible for what our respective friends may do without our
+instigation or countenance and I assure you, as you have assured me,
+that no assault has been made upon you by my instigation, or with my
+countenance.
+
+Whether you shall remain at the head of the Treasury Department is a
+question which I will not allow myself to consider from any
+standpoint other than my judgment of the public service, and, in that
+view, I do not perceive occasion for a change.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL THOMAS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, March 1,1864.
+
+GENERAL L. THOMAS:
+
+This introduces Mr. Lewis, mentioned in my despatch sent you at
+Louisville some days ago.  I have but little personal acquaintance
+with him; but he has the confidence of several members of Congress
+here who seem to know him well.  He hopes to be useful, without
+charge to the government, in facilitating the introduction of the
+free-labor system on the Mississippi plantations.  He is acquainted
+with, and has access to, many of the planters who wish to adopt the
+system.  He will show you two letters of mine on this subject, one
+somewhat General, and the other relating to named persons; they are
+not different in principle.  He will also show you some suggestions
+coming from some of the planters themselves.  I desire that all I
+promise in these letters, so far as practicable, may be in good faith
+carried out, and that suggestions from the planters may be heard and
+adopted, so far as they may not contravene the principles stated, nor
+justice, nor fairness, to laborers.  I do not herein intend to
+overrule your own mature judgment on any point.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL STEELE.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 3, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE, Little Rock, Ark.:
+
+Yours including address to people of Arkansas is received.  I approve
+the address and thank you for it.  Yours in relation to William M.
+Randolph also received.  Let him take the oath of December 8,
+and go to work for the new constitution, and on your notifying me of
+it, I will immediately issue the special pardon for him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 4,1864.
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Admiral Dahlgren is here, and of course is very anxious about his
+son.  Please send me at once all you know or can learn of his fate.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER IN REGARD TO THE EXPORTATION OF TOBACCO BELONGING TO THE FRENCH
+GOVERNMENT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, March 7, 1864.
+
+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 seven thousand hogsheads, and that
+it is the same tobacco respecting the exportation of which
+application Was originally made by the French government.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO UNITED STATES MARSHAL, LOUISVILLE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 7, 1864.
+
+U.S. MARSHAL, Louisville, Ky.:
+
+Until further order suspend sale of property and further proceedings
+in cases of the United States against Dr. John B. English, and S. S.
+English, qt al., sureties for John L. Hill.  Also same against same
+sureties for Thomas A. Ireland.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+MAJOR ECKERT:
+Please send the above dispatch.
+JNO. G. NICOLAY, Private Secretary
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 9, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+New York City votes ninety-five hundred majority for allowing
+soldiers to vote, and the rest of the State nearly all on the same
+side.  Tell the soldiers.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO SENATE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, March 9, 1864.
+
+TO THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO GENERAL GRANT,
+
+MARCH 9, 1864.
+
+GENERAL GRANT:--The expression of the nation's approbation of what
+you have already done, and its reliance on you for what remains to do
+in the existing great struggle, is now presented with this commission
+constituting you Lieutenant-General of the Army of the United States.
+
+With this high honor, devolves on you an additional responsibility.
+As the country herein trusts you, so, under God, it win sustain you.
+I scarcely need add, that with what I here speak for the country,
+goes my own hearty personal concurrence.
+
+
+
+GENERAL GRANT'S REPLY.
+
+Mr. PRESIDENT:--I accept this commission, with gratitude for the high
+honor conferred.
+
+With the aid of the noble armies that have fought on so many fields
+for our common country, it will be my earnest endeavor not to
+disappoint your expectations.
+
+I feel the full weight of the responsibilities now devolving on me,
+and I know that if they are met, it will be due to those armies; and
+above all, to the favor of that Providence which leads both nations
+and men.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER ASSIGNING U. S. GRANT TO THE COMMAND OF
+THE ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 10, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR MURPHY.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 12, 1864.
+GOVERNOR MURPHY, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+I am not appointing officers for Arkansas now, and I will try to
+remember your request. Do your. best to get out the largest vote
+possible, and of course as much of it as possible on the right side.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL HAHN.
+(Private.)
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 13, 1864
+
+HON. MICHAEL HAHN.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I congratulate you on having fixed your name in history
+as the first free-state governor of Louisiana.  Now, you are about to
+have a convention, which among other things will probably define the
+elective franchise.  I barely suggest for your private consideration,
+whether some of the colored people may not be let in,--as, for
+instance, the very intelligent, and especially those who have fought
+gallantly in our ranks.  They would probably help, in some trying
+time to come, to keep the jewel of liberty within the family of
+freedom.  But this is only a suggestion,--not to the public, but to
+you alone.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+CALL FOR TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND MEN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, MARCH 14, 1864.
+
+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 five hundred thousand men called for February 1,
+1864, a call is hereby made and a draft ordered for two hundred
+thousand men for the military service (Army, Navy, and Marine Corps)
+of the United States.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The Government bounties as now paid continue until April I, 1864, at
+which time the additional bounties cease.   On and after that date
+one hundred dollars bounty only will be paid, as provided by the act
+approved July 22, 1861.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+(Private.)
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 15, 1864
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+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?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PASS FOR GENERAL D. E. SICKLES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 15, 1864.
+
+WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
+
+Major-General Sickles is making a tour for me from here by way of
+Cairo, New Orleans, and returning by the gulf, and ocean, and all
+land and naval officers and, employees are directed to furnish
+reasonable transportation and other reasonable facilities to himself
+and personal staff not inconsistent with the public service.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER TO GOVERNOR HAHN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 15, 1864.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY MICHAEL HAHN, Governor of Louisiana
+
+Until further order, you are hereby invested with the powers
+exercised hitherto by the military governor of Louisiana.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REMARKS AT A FAIR IN THE PATENT OFFICE,
+
+WASHINGTON, MARCH 16, 1864.
+
+LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:
+
+I appear to say but a word.  This extraordinary war in which we are
+engaged falls heavily upon all classes of people but the most heavily
+upon the soldier.  For it has been said, "All that a man hath will he
+give for his life;" and while all contribute of their substance, the
+soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his
+country's cause.  The highest merit, then, is due to the soldier.
+
+In this extraordinary war, extraordinary developments have manifested
+themselves, such as have not been seen in former wars; and among
+these manifestations nothing has been more remarkable than these
+fairs for the relief of suffering soldiers and their families.  And
+the chief agents of these fairs are the women of America.
+
+I am not accustomed to the use of language of eulogy: I have never
+studied the art of paying compliments to women; but I must say, that
+if all that has been said by orators and poets since the creation of
+the world in praise of women were applied to the women of America, it
+would not do them justice for their conduct during this war.  I will
+close by saying, God bless the women of America.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE FROM
+THE WORKINGMEN'S ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK,
+
+MARCH 21, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN OF THE COMMITTEE:
+
+The honorary membership in your association, as generously tendered,
+is gratefully accepted.
+
+You comprehend, as your address shows, that the existing rebellion
+means more and tends to do more than the perpetuation of African
+slavery--that it is, in fact, a war upon the rights of all working
+people.  Partly to show that this view has not escaped my attention,
+and partly that I cannot better express myself, I read a passage from
+the message to Congress in December, 1861:
+
+"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 legislature, boldly advocated, with labored
+argument 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.   In my
+present position I could scarcely be justified were I to omit raising
+a warning voice against this approach of returning despotism.
+
+"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 capital on an equal
+footing, if not above labor, in the structure of government.  It is
+assumed that labor is available only in connection with capital; that
+nobody labors unless somebody 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 hire laborers, and thus induce
+them to work by their own consent or buy them, and drive them to it
+without their consent.  Having proceeded so it is naturally concluded
+that all laborers are either hired 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.  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.
+
+"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 capital and labor,
+producing mutual benefits.  The error is in assuming that the whole
+labor of a 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.
+
+"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 a while, 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 touch or take aught which they have not honestly
+earned.  Let them beware of surrendering a political power 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."
+
+The views then expressed remain unchanged, nor have I much to add.
+None are so deeply interested to resist the present rebellion as the
+working people.  Let them beware of prejudices, working division and
+hostility among themselves.  The most notable feature of a
+disturbance in your city last summer was the hanging of some working
+people by other working people.   It should never be so.   The
+strongest bond of human sympathy, outside of the family relation,
+should be one uniting all working people, of all nations, and
+tongues, and kindreds.  Nor should this lead to a war upon property,
+or the owners of property.  Property is the fruit of labor; property
+is desirable; is a positive good in the world.  That some should be
+rich shows that others may become rich, and, hence, is just
+encouragement to industry and enterprise.  Let not him who is
+houseless pull down the house of another, but let him labor
+diligently and build one for himself, thus by example assuring that
+his own shall be safe from violence when built.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 22, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Hon. W. R. Morrison says he has requested you by letter to effect a
+special exchange of Lieut. Col. A. F. Rogers, of Eightieth Illinois
+Volunteers, now in Libby Prison, and I shall be glad if you can
+effect it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+CORRESPONDENCE WITH GENERAL C. SCHURZ.
+( Private.)
+
+WASHINGTON, March 13, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SCHURZ.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Yours of February 29 reached me only four days ago; but
+the delay was of little consequence, because I found, on feeling
+around, I could not invite you here without a difficulty which at
+least would be unpleasant, and perhaps would be detrimental to the
+public service.  Allow me to suggest that if you wish to remain in
+the military service, it is very dangerous for you to get temporarily
+out of it; because, with a major-general once out, it is next to
+impossible for even the President to get him in again.  With my
+appreciation of your ability and correct principle, of course I would
+be very glad to have your service for the country in the approaching
+political canvass; but I fear we cannot properly have it without
+separating you from the military.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION ABOUT AMNESTY,
+MARCH 26, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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 these benefits; and whereas the objects of that
+Proclamation were to suppress the insurrection and to restore the
+authority of the United States; and whereas the amnesty therein
+proposed by the President was offered with reference to these objects
+alone:
+
+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 offences 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.
+
+Persons excluded from the amnesty offered in the said Proclamation
+may apply to the President for clemency, like all other offenders,
+and their application will receive due consideration.
+
+I do further declare and proclaim that the oath presented 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 thereof 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 registry thereof, and will, on
+application, in proper cases, issue certificates of such records in
+the customary form of official certificates.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 28, 1864.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--The Governor of Kentucky is here, and desires to have
+the following points definitely fixed:
+
+First.  That the quotas of troops furnished, and to be furnished, by
+Kentucky may be adjusted upon the basis as actually reduced by able-
+bodied men of hers having gone into the rebel service; and that she
+be required to furnish no more than her just quotas upon fair
+adjustment upon such basis.
+
+Second.  To whatever extent the enlistment and drafting, one or both,
+of colored troops may be found necessary within the State, it may be
+conducted within the law of Congress; and, so far as practicable,
+free from collateral embarrassments, disorders, and provocations.
+
+I think these requests of the Governor are reasonable; and I shall be
+obliged if you will give him a full hearing, and do the best you can
+to effect these objects.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL G. G. MEADE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 29, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--Your letter to Colonel Townsend, inclosing a slip from
+the "Herald," and asking a court of inquiry, has been laid before me
+by the Secretary of War, with the request that I would consider it.
+It is quite natural that you should feel some sensibility on the
+subject; yet I am not impressed, nor do I think the country is
+impressed, with the belief that your honor demands, or the public
+interest demands, such an inquiry.  The country knows that at all
+events you have done good service; and I believe it agrees with me
+that it is much better for you to be engaged in trying to do more,
+than to be diverted, as you necessarily would be, by a court of
+inquiry.
+
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 29,1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Captain Kinney, of whom I spoke to you as desiring to go on your
+staff, is now in your camp, in company with Mrs. Senator Dixon.  Mrs.
+Grant and I, and some others, agreed last night that I should, by
+this despatch, kindly call your attention to Captain Kinney.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO A. G. HODGES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 4, 1864.
+
+A. G. HODGES, ESQ., Frankfort, Kentucky:
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--You ask me to put in writing the substance of what I
+verbally said the other day, in your presence, to Governor Bramlette
+and Senator Dixon.  It was about as follows:
+
+"I am naturally anti-slavery.  If slavery is not wrong, nothing is
+wrong.  I cannot remember when I did not so think and feel, and yet I
+have never understood that the Presidency conferred upon me an
+unrestricted right to act officially upon this judgment and feeling.
+It was in the oath I took that I would to the best of my ability
+preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.
+I could not take the office without taking the oath.   Nor was it my
+view that I might take an oath to get power, and break the oath in
+using the power.  I understood, too, that in ordinary civil
+administration this oath even forbade me to practically indulge my
+primary abstract judgment on the moral question of slavery.  I had
+publicly declared this many times, and in many ways.  And I aver
+that, to this day, I have done no official act in mere deference to
+my abstract judgment and feeling on slavery.  I did understand,
+however, that my oath to preserve the Constitution to the best of my
+ability, imposed upon me the duty of preserving, by every
+indispensable means, that government, that nation, of which that
+Constitution was the organic law.  Was it possible to lose the nation
+and yet preserve the Constitution? By General law, life and limb must
+be protected; yet often a limb must be amputated to save a life; but
+a life is never wisely given to save a limb.  I felt that measures,
+otherwise unconstitutional, might become lawful, by becoming
+indispensable to the preservation of the Constitution, through the
+preservation of the nation.   Right or wrong, I assumed this ground,
+and now avow it.  I could not feel that to the best of my ability I
+had even tried to preserve the Constitution, if, to save slavery, or
+any minor matter, I should permit the wreck of government, country,
+and Constitution, altogether.  When, early in the war, General
+Fremont attempted military emancipation, I forbade it, because I did
+not then think it an indispensable necessity.  When, a little later,
+General Cameron, then Secretary of War, suggested the arming of the
+blacks, I objected, because I did not yet think it an indispensable
+necessity.  When, still later, General Hunter attempted military
+emancipation, I again forbade it, because I did not yet think the
+indispensable necessity had come.  When, in March, and May, and July,
+1862, I made earnest and successive appeals to the Border States to
+favor compensated emancipation, I believed the indispensable
+necessity for military emancipation and arming the blacks would come,
+unless averted by that measure.  They declined the proposition, and I
+was, in my best judgment, driven to the alternative of either
+surrendering the Union, and with it the Constitution, or of laying
+strong hand upon the colored element.   I chose the latter.  In
+choosing it, I hoped for greater gain than loss, but of this I was
+not entirely confident.  More than a year of trial now shows no loss
+by it in our foreign relations, none in our home popular sentiment,
+none in our white military force, no loss by it any how, or anywhere.
+On the contrary, it shows a gain of quite one hundred and thirty
+thousand soldiers, seamen, and laborers.  These are palpable facts,
+about which, as facts, there can be no caviling.  We have the men;
+and we could not have had them without the measure.
+
+"And now let any Union man who complains of the measure test himself
+by writing down in one line that he is for subduing the rebellion by
+force of arms; and in the next, that he is for taking these hundred
+and thirty thousand men from the Union side, and placing them where
+they would be but for the measure he condemns.  If he cannot face his
+case so stated, it is only because he cannot face the truth."
+
+I add a word which was not in the verbal conversation.  In telling
+this tale I attempt no compliment to my own sagacity.  I claim not to
+have controlled events, but confess plainly that events have
+controlled me.  Now, at the end of three years' struggle, the
+nation's condition is not what either party, or any man, devised or
+expected.  God alone can claim it.  Whither it is tending seems
+plain.  If God now wills the removal of a great wrong, and wills also
+that we of the North, as well as you of the South, shall pay fairly
+for our complicity in that wrong, impartial history will find therein
+new cause to attest and revere the justice and goodness of God.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO MRS. HORACE MANN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+April 5, 1864.
+
+MRS HORACE MANN:
+
+MADAM:--The petition of persons under eighteen, praying that I would
+free all slave children, and the heading of which petition it appears
+you wrote, was handed me a few days since by Senator Sumner.  Please
+tell these little people I am very glad their young hearts are so
+full of just and generous sympathy, and that, while I have not the
+power to grant all they ask, I trust they will remember that God has,
+and that, as it seems, he wills to do it.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, April 12, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+I am pressed to get from Libby, by special exchange, Jacob C.
+Hagenbuek, first lieutenant, Company H, Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania
+Volunteers.  Please do it if you can without detriment or
+embarrassment.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, April 17, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Private William Collins of Company B, of the Sixty-ninth New York
+Volunteers, has been convicted of desertion, and execution suspended
+as in numerous other cases.  Now Captain O'Neill, commanding the
+regiment, and nearly all its other regimental and company officers,
+petition for his full pardon and restoration to his company.  Is
+there any good objection?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LECTURE ON LIBERTY
+
+ADDRESS AT SANITARY FAIR IN BALTIMORE,
+
+APRIL 18, 1864.
+
+LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:--Calling to mind that we are in Baltimore, we
+cannot fail to note that the world moves.  Looking upon these many
+people assembled here to serve, as they best may, the soldiers of the
+Union, it occurs at once that three years ago the same soldiers could
+not so much as pass through Baltimore.  The change from then till now
+is both great and gratifying.  Blessings on the brave men who have
+wrought the change, and the fair women who strive to reward them for
+it!
+
+But Baltimore suggests more than could happen within Baltimore.  The
+change within Baltimore is part only of a far wider change.  When the
+war began, three years ago, neither party, nor any man, expected it
+would last till now.  Each looked for the end, in some way, long ere
+to-day.  Neither did any anticipate that domestic slavery would be
+much affected by the war.  But here we are; the war has not ended,
+and slavery has been much affected how much needs not now to be
+recounted.  So true is it that man proposes and God disposes.
+
+But we can see the past, though we may not claim to have directed it;
+and seeing it, in this case, we feel more hopeful and confident for
+the future.
+
+The world has never had a good definition of the word liberty, and
+the American people, just now, are much in want of one.  We all
+declare for liberty; but in using the same word we do not all mean
+the same thing.  With some the word liberty may mean for each man to
+do as he pleases with himself, and the product of his labor; while
+with others the same word may mean for some men to do as they please
+with other men, and the product of other men's labor.  Here are two,
+not only different, but incompatible things, called by the same name,
+liberty.  And it follows that each of the things is, by the
+respective parties, called by two different and incompatible names--
+liberty and tyranny.
+
+The shepherd drives the wolf from the sheep's throat, for which the
+sheep thanks the shepherd as his liberator, while the wolf denounces
+him for the same act, as the destroyer of liberty, especially as the
+sheep was a black one.  Plainly, the sheep and the wolf are not
+agreed upon a definition of the word liberty; and precisely the same
+difference prevails to-day among us human creatures, even in the
+North, and all professing to love liberty.  Hence we behold
+the process by which thousands are daily passing from under the yoke
+of bondage hailed by some as the advance of liberty, and bewailed by
+others as the destruction of all liberty.  Recently, as it seems, the
+people of Maryland have been doing something to define liberty, and
+thanks to them that, in what they have done, the wolf's dictionary
+has been repudiated.
+
+It is not very becoming for one in my position to make speeches at
+length; but there is another subject upon which I feel that I ought
+to say a word.  A painful rumor, true, I fear, has reached us, of the
+massacre, by the rebel forces at Fort Pillow, in the west end of
+Tennessee, on the Mississippi River, of some three hundred colored
+soldiers and white officers [I believe it latter turned out to be
+500], who had just been overpowered by their assailants [numbering
+5000].  There seems to be some anxiety in the public mind whether the
+Government is doing its duty to the colored soldier, and to the
+service, at this point.  At the beginning of the war, and for some
+time, the use of colored troops was not contemplated; and how the
+change of purpose was wrought I will not now take time to explain.
+Upon a clear conviction of duty I resolved to turn that element of
+strength to account; and I am responsible for it to the American
+people, to the Christian world, to history, and in my final account
+to God.  Having determined to use the negro as a soldier, there is no
+way but to give him all the protection given to any other soldier.
+The difficulty is not in stating the principle, but in practically
+applying it.  It is a mistake to suppose the Government is
+indifferent to this matter, or is not doing the best it can in regard
+to it.  We do not to-day know that a colored soldier, or white
+officer commanding colored soldiers, has been massacred by the rebels
+when made a prisoner.  We fear it, we believe it, I may say,--but we
+do not know it.  To take the life of one of their prisoners on the
+assumption that they murder ours, when it is short of certainty that
+they do murder ours, might be too serious, too cruel, a mistake.  We
+are having the Fort Pillow affair thoroughly investigated; and such
+investigation will probably show conclusively how the truth is.  If
+after all that has been said it shall turn out that there has been no
+massacre at Fort Pillow, it will be almost safe to say there has been
+none, and will be none, elsewhere.  If there has been the massacre of
+three hundred there, or even the tenth part of three hundred, it will
+be conclusively proved; and being so proved, the retribution shall as
+surely come.  It will be matter of grave consideration in what exact
+course to apply the retribution; but in the supposed case it must
+come.
+
+[There was a massacre of a black company and their officers at Fort
+Pillow--they were prisoners who later on, the day of their capture,
+were ordered executed.   The black soldiers were tied alive to
+individual planks--then man and plank were cobbled up like cord wood
+and burned.   The white officers were shot.   D.W.]
+
+
+
+
+TO CALVIN TRUESDALE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 20, 1864.
+
+CALVIN TRUESDALE, ESQ., Postmaster, Rock Island, Ill.:
+
+Thomas J. Pickett, late agent of the Quartermaster 's Department for
+the island of Rock Island, has been removed or suspended from that
+position on a charge of having sold timber and stone from the island
+for his private benefit.  Mr. Pickett is an old acquaintance and
+friend of mine, and I will thank you, if you will, to set a day or
+days and place on and at which to take testimony on the point.
+Notify Mr. Pickett and one J. B. Danforth (who, as I understand,
+makes the charge) to be present with their witnesses.  Take the
+testimony in writing offered by both sides, and report it in full to
+me.  Please do this for me.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER COMMANDING AT FORT WARREN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 20, 1864.
+
+OFFICER IN MILITARY COMMAND,
+Fort Warren, Boston Harbor, Mass.:
+
+If there is a man by the name of Charles Carpenter, under sentence of
+death for desertion, at Fort Warren, suspend execution until further
+order and send the record of his trial.  If sentenced for any other
+offence, telegraph what it is and when he is to be executed.  Answer
+at all events.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER COMMANDING AT FORT WARREN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 21,1864.
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND AT FORT WARREN,
+Boston Harbor, Mass.:
+
+The order I sent yesterday in regard to Charles Carpenter is hereby
+withdrawn and you are to act as if it never existed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL DIX.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., April 21, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL Dix, New York:
+
+Yesterday I was induced to telegraph the officer in military command
+at Fort Warren, Boston Harbor, Massachusetts, suspending the
+execution of Charles Carpenter, to be executed tomorrow for
+desertion.  Just now, on reaching your order in the case, I
+telegraphed the same officer withdrawing the suspension, and leave
+the case entirely with you.  The man's friends are pressing me, but I
+refer them to you, intending to take no further action myself.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 23, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Senator Ten Eyck is very anxious to have a, special exchange of Capt.
+Frank J. McLean, of Ninth Tennessee Cavalry now, or lately, at
+Johnson's Island, for Capt. T. Ten Eyck, Eighteenth U. S. Infantry,
+and now at Richmond.  I would like to have it done.  Can it be?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON OFFER OF TROOPS, APRIL 23, 1864.
+
+TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+1. The Governors of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin
+offer to the President infantry troops for the approaching campaign
+as follows: Ohio, thirty thousand; Indiana, twenty thousand;
+Illinois, twenty thousand; Iowa, ten thousand; Wisconsin, five
+thousand.
+
+2. The term of service to be one hundred days, reckoned from the date
+of muster into the service of the United States, unless sooner
+discharged.
+
+3. The troops to be mustered into the service of the United States by
+regiments, when the regiments are filled 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.
+
+4. 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.
+
+5. No bounty to be paid the troops, nor the service charged or
+credited on any draft.
+
+6. 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.
+
+JOHN BROUGH, Governor of Ohio.
+O. P. MORTON, Governor of Indiana.
+RICHARD PATES, Governor of Illinois.
+WILLIAM M. STONE, Governor of Iowa.
+JAMES T. LEWIS, Governor of Wisconsin
+
+(Indorsement.)
+
+April 23, 1864.
+
+The foregoing proposition of the governors is accepted, and the
+Secretary of War is directed to carry it into execution.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 23, 1864.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+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.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO JOHN WILLIAMS.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON CITY, April 25, 1864.
+
+JOHN WILLIAMS, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+Yours of the 15th is just received.  Thanks for your kind
+remembrance.  I would accept your offer at once, were it not that I
+fear there might be some impropriety in it, though I do not see that
+there would.  I will think of it a while.
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON CITY, April 25, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+A Mr. Corby brought you a note from me at the foot of a petition I
+believe, in the case of Dawson, to be executed to-day.  The record
+has been examined here, and it shows too strong a case for a pardon
+or commutation, unless there is something in the poor man's favor
+outside of the record, which you on the ground may know, but I do
+not.  My note to you only means that if you know of any such
+thing rendering a suspension of the execution proper, on your own
+judgment, you are at liberty to suspend it.  Otherwise I do not
+interfere.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL THOMAS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., April 26, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Chattanooga, Term.:
+
+Suspend execution of death sentence of young Perry, of Wisconsin,
+condemned for sleeping on his post, till further orders, and forward
+record for examination.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR MURPHY.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., April 27, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR MURPHY, Little Rock, Arkansas:
+
+I am much gratified to learn that you got out so large a vote, so
+nearly all the right way, at the late election; and not less so that
+your State government including the legislature, is organized and in
+good working order.  Whatever I can I will do to protect you;
+meanwhile you must do your utmost to protect yourselves.  Present my
+greeting to all.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS, APRIL 28, 1864.
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
+
+APRIL 28, 1864.
+
+TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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:
+
+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 the 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
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 30, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Not expecting to see you before the spring campaign opens, I wish to
+express in this way my entire satisfaction with what you have done up
+to this time, so far as I understand it.
+
+The particulars of your plans I neither know nor seek to know.  You
+are vigilant and self-reliant; and, pleased with this, I wish not to
+obtrude any restraints or constraints upon you.  While I am very
+anxious that any great disaster or capture of our men in great number
+shall be avoided, I know that these points are less likely to escape
+your attention than they would be mine.  If there be anything wanting
+which is within my power to give, do not fail to let me know it.
+
+And now, with a brave army and a just cause, may God sustain you.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
+
+MAY 2, 1864.
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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:
+[Correspondence and orders relating to the resignation and
+reinstatement of Major-General Frank P. Blair, Jr., of Missouri.]
+
+The foregoing constitutes all sought by the resolution so far as is
+remembered or has been found upon diligent search.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., May 4, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Chattanooga, Tenn.:
+
+I have an imploring appeal in behalf of the citizens who say your
+Order No.8 will compel them to go north of Nashville.  This is in no
+sense an order, nor is it even a request that you will do anything
+which in the least shall be a drawback upon your military operations,
+but anything you can do consistently with those operations for those
+suffering people I shall be glad of.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 5, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Commanding,  Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+The President directs me to inquire whether a day has yet been fixed
+for the execution of citizen Robert Louden, and if so what day?
+
+JOHN HAY,
+Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.
+
+
+
+
+TO MRS. S. B. McCONKEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 9, 1864.
+
+MRS. SARAH B. McCONKEY, West Chester, Pa.:
+
+MADAM:--Our mutual friend, Judge Lewis, tells me you do me the honor
+to inquire for my personal welfare.  I have been very anxious for
+some days in regard to our armies in the field, but am considerably
+cheered, just now, by favorable news from them.
+
+I am sure you will join me in the hope for their further success;
+while yourself, and other good mothers, wives, sisters, and
+daughters, do all you and they can, to relieve and comfort the
+gallant soldiers who compose them.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RECOMMENDATION OF THANKSGIVING.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 9, 1864
+
+TO THE FRIENDS OF UNION AND LIBERTY:
+
+Enough is known of army operations, within the last five days, to
+claim our special gratitude to God.  While what remains undone
+demands our most sincere prayers to and reliance upon Him (without
+whom all effort is 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+
+MAY 9, 1864.
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS:--I am very much obliged to you for the compliment of
+this call, though I apprehend it is owing more to the good news
+received to-day from the Army, than to a desire to see me.  I am
+indeed very grateful to the brave men who have been struggling with
+the enemy in the field, to their noble commanders who have directed
+them, and especially to our Maker.  Our commanders are following up
+their victories resolutely and successfully.  I think, without
+knowing the particulars of the plans of General Grant, that what has
+been accomplished is of more importance than at first appears.  I
+believe, I know (and am especially grateful to know) that General
+Grant has not been jostled in his purposes, that he has made all his
+points, and to-day he is on his line as he purposed before he moved
+his armies.  I will volunteer to say that I am very glad at what has
+happened, but there is a great deal still to be done.  While we are
+grateful to all the brave men and officers for the events of the past
+few days, we should, above all, be very grateful to Almighty God, who
+gives us victory.
+
+There is enough yet before us requiring all loyal men and patriots to
+perform their share of the labor and follow the example of the modest
+General at the head of our armies, and sink all personal
+consideration for the sake of the country.  I commend you to keep
+yourselves in the same tranquil mood that is characteristic of that
+brave and loyal man.  I have said more than I expected when I came
+before you.  Repeating my thanks for this call, I bid you good-bye.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL LEW WALLACE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., May 10, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL WALLACE, Baltimore:
+
+Please tell me what is the trouble with Dr. Hawks.   Also please ask
+Bishop Whittington to give me his view of the case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS,
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 11, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Complaints are coming to me of disturbances in Canoll, Platte, and
+Buchanan counties.   Please ascertain the truth, correct what is
+found wrong, and telegraph me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO P. B. LOOMIS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 12, 1864
+
+F. B. LOOMIS, ESQ.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
+communication of the 28th April, in which you offer to replace the
+present garrison at Port Trumbull with volunteers, which you propose
+to raise at your own expense.  While it seems inexpedient at this
+time to accept this proposition on account of the special duties now
+devolving upon the garrison mentioned, I cannot
+pass unnoticed such a meritorious instance of individual patriotism.
+Permit me, for the Government, to express my cordial thanks to you
+for this generous and public-spirited offer, which is worthy of note
+among the many called forth in these times of national trial.
+
+I am very truly, your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A METHODIST DELEGATION, MAY 14, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN:-In response to your address, allow me to attest the
+accuracy of its historical statements, indorse the sentiments it
+expresses, and thank you in the nation's name for the sure promise it
+gives.  Nobly sustained, as the Government has been, by all the
+churches, I would utter nothing which might in the least appear
+invidious against any.  Yet without this, it may fairly be said, that
+the Methodist Episcopal Church, not less devoted than the best, is by
+its greatest numbers the most important of all.  It is no fault in
+others that the Methodist Church sends more soldiers to the field,
+more nurses to the hospitals, and more prayers to Heaven than--any
+other.  God bless the Methodist Church Bless all the churches; and
+blessed be God, who in this our great trial giveth us the churches.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR YATES.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 18, 1864.
+
+His EXCELLENCY RICHARD YATES, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+If any such proclamation has appeared, it is a forgery.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ARREST AND IMPRISONMENT OF IRRESPONSIBLE NEWSPAPER
+REPORTERS AND EDITORS
+
+ORDER TO GENERAL J. A. DIX.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 18, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL JOHN A. DIX,
+Commanding at New York:
+
+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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+[On the morning of May 18, 3864, a forged proclamation was published
+in the World, and Journal of Commerce, of New York.  The proclamation
+named a day for fasting and prayer, called for 400,000 fresh troops,
+and purposed to raise by an "immediate and peremptory draft,"
+whatever quotas were not furnished on the day specified.   D.W.]
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL B. P. BUTLER.
+(Cipher.)
+WASHINGTON, D. C., May 18, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Bermuda Hundred, Va.:
+
+Until receiving your dispatch of yesterday, the idea of commissions
+in the volunteers expiring at the end of three years had not occurred
+to me.  I think no trouble will come of it; and, at all events, I
+shall take care of it so far as in me lies.  As to the major-
+generalships in the regular army, I think I shall not dispose of
+another, at least until the combined operations now in progress,
+under direction of General Grant, and within which yourself and
+command are included, shall be terminated.
+Meanwhile, on behalf of yourself, officers, and men, please accept my
+hearty thanks for what you and they have so far done.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE EXEMPTION OF
+AMERICAN CONSULS FROM MILITARY SERVICE,
+
+MAY 19, 1864.
+
+It is officially announced by the State Department that citizens of
+the United States holding commissions and recognized as Consuls of
+foreign powers, are not by law exempt from military service if
+drafted:
+
+Therefore the mere enrolment of a citizen holding a foreign consulate
+will not be held to vacate his commission, but if he shall be drafted
+his exequatur will be revoked unless he shall have previously
+resigned in order that another Consul may be received.
+
+An exequatur bearing date the 3d day of May, 1858, having been issued
+to Charles Hunt, a citizen of the United States, recognizing him as a
+Consul of Belgium for St.  Louis, Missouri, 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.
+
+These are therefore to declare that I no longer recognize the said
+Hunt as Consul of Belgium, for St.  Louis, Missouri, 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.
+
+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................
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR MORTON AND OTHERS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, May 21, 1864
+
+GOVERNOR O. P. MORTON:
+
+The getting forward of hundred-day troops to sustain General
+Sherman's lengthening lines promises much good.  Please put your best
+efforts into the work.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+Same to Governor Yates, Springfield, Illinois; Governor Stone,
+Davenport, Iowa; Governor Lewis, Madison, Wisconsin.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO CHRISTIANA A. SACK.
+WAR DEPARTMENT WASHINGTON, D. C., May 21, 1864
+
+CHRISTIANA A. SACK, Baltimore, Md.:
+
+I cannot postpone the execution of a convicted spy on a mere
+telegraphic despatch signed with a name I never heard before.
+General Wallace may give you a pass to see him if he chooses.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BROUGH.
+WASHINGTON CITY, May 24, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BROUGH, Columbus, Ohio:
+
+Yours to Secretary of War [received] asking for something cheering.
+We have nothing bad from anywhere.  I have just seen a despatch of
+Grant, of 11 P.M., May 23, on the North Anna and partly across it,
+which ends as follows: "Everything looks exceedingly favorable for
+us."  We have nothing later from him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, May 25,1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of Potomac:
+
+Mr. J. C. Swift wishes a pass from me to follow your army to pick up
+rags and cast-off clothing.  I will give it to him if you say so,
+otherwise not.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+["No job to big or too small" for this president--not even a request
+from a Rag Picker.  D.W.]
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM CONCERNING THE TRANSPORTATION OF
+THE NEW YORK NAVAL BRIGADE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May 26, 1864.
+
+WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
+
+I am again pressed with the claim of Mr. Marshall O. Roberts, for
+transportation of what was called the Naval Brigade from New York to
+Fortress Monroe.  This force was a special organization got up by one
+Bartlett, in pretended pursuance of written authority from me, but in
+fact, pursuing the authority in scarcely anything whatever.  The
+credit given him by Mr. Roberts, was given in the teeth of the
+express declaration that the Government would not be responsible for
+the class of expenses to which it belonged.  After all some part of
+the transportation became useful to the Government, and equitably
+should be paid for; but I have neither time nor means to ascertain
+this equitable amount, or any appropriation to pay it with if
+ascertained.  If the Quartermaster at New York can ascertain what
+would compensate for so much of the transportation as did result
+usefully to the Government, it might be a step towards reaching
+justice.  I write this from memory, but I believe it is substantially
+correct.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO P. A. CONKLING AND OTHERS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, June 3, 1864.
+
+HON. F. A. CONKLING AND OTHERS.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--Your letter, inviting me to be present at a mass meeting
+of loyal citizens, to be held at New York on the 4th instant, for the
+purpose of expressing gratitude to Lieutenant-General Grant for his
+signal services, was received yesterday.  It is impossible for me to
+attend.  I approve, nevertheless, of whatever may tend to strengthen
+and sustain General Grant and the noble armies now under his
+direction.  My previous high estimate of General Grant has been
+maintained and heightened by what has occurred in the remarkable
+campaign he is now conducting, while the magnitude and difficulty of
+the task before him does not prove less than I expected.  He and his
+brave soldiers are now in the midst of their great trial, and I trust
+that at your meeting you will so shape your good words that they may
+turn to men and guns, moving to his and their support.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON A LETTER TOUCHING THE
+REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION.
+
+JUNE 5, 1864.
+
+(Indorsement.)
+
+Swett is unquestionably all right.  Mr. Holt is a good man, but I had
+not heard or thought of him for Vice-President.  Wish not to
+interfere about Vice-President.  Cannot interfere about platform.
+Convention must judge for itself.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL MEADE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 6, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL MEADE, Army of the Potomac:
+
+Private James McCarthy, of the One-hundred and fortieth New York
+Volunteers, is here under sentence to the Dry Tortugas for an attempt
+to desert.  His friends appeal to me and if his colonel and you
+consent, I will send him to his regiment.  Please answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS.
+WASHINGTON, June 8, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Yours of to-day received.  I am unable to conceive how a message can
+be less safe by the express than by a staff-officer.  If you send a
+verbal message, the messenger is one additional person let into the
+secret.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO THE COMMITTEE NOTIFYING PRESIDENT LINCOLN OF HIS
+RENOMINATION,
+
+JUNE 9, 1864.
+
+Mr. CHAIRMAN AND GENTLEMEN OF THE COMMITTEE:
+
+I will neither conceal my gratification nor restrain the expression
+of my gratitude that the Union people, through their convention, in
+their continued effort to save and advance the nation, have deemed me
+not unworthy to remain in my present position.  I know no reason to
+doubt that I shall accept the nomination tendered; and yet perhaps I
+should not declare definitely before reading and considering what is
+called the platform.  I will say now, however, I approve the
+declaration in favor of so amending the Constitution as to prohibit
+slavery throughout the nation.  When the people in revolt, with a
+hundred days of explicit notice that they could within those days
+resume their allegiance without the overthrow of their institution,
+and that they could not so resume it afterward, elected to stand out,
+such amendment of the Constitution as now proposed became a fitting
+and necessary conclusion to the final success of the Union cause.
+Such alone can meet and cover all cavils.  Now the unconditional
+Union men, North and South, perceive its importance and embrace it.
+In the joint names of Liberty and Union, let us labor to give it
+legal form and practical effect.
+
+
+
+
+PLATFORM OF THE UNION NATIONAL CONVENTION
+HELD IN BALTIMORE, MD., JUNE 7 AND 8, 1864.
+
+1.  Resolved, That it is the highest duty of every American citizen
+to maintain against all their enemies the integrity of the Union and
+the paramount authority of the Constitution and laws of the United
+States; and that, laying aside all differences of political opinion,
+we pledge ourselves, as Union men, animated by a common sentiment and
+aiming at a common object, to do everything in our power to aid the
+Government in quelling by force of arms the rebellion now raging
+against its authority, and in bringing to the punishment due to their
+crimes the rebels and traitors arrayed against it.
+
+2.  Resolved, That we approve the determination of the Government of
+the United States not to compromise with rebels, or to offer them any
+terms of peace, except such as may be based upon an unconditional
+surrender of their hostility and a return to their just allegiance to
+the Constitution and laws of the United States, and that we call upon
+the Government to maintain this position, and to prosecute the war
+with the utmost possible vigor to the complete suppression of the
+rebellion, in full reliance upon the self-sacrificing patriotism, the
+heroic valor, and the undying devotion of the American people to
+their Country and its free institutions.
+
+3.  Resolved, That as slavery was the cause, and now constitutes the
+strength, of this rebellion, and as it must be, always and
+everywhere, hostile to the principles of republican government,
+justice and the national safety demand its utter and complete
+extirpation from the soil of the republic; and that while we uphold
+and maintain the acts and proclamations by which the Government, in
+its own defense, has aimed a death-blow at this gigantic evil, we are
+in favor, furthermore, of such an amendment to the Constitution, to
+be made by the people in conformity with its provisions, as shall
+terminate and forever prohibit the existence of slavery within the
+limits or the jurisdiction of the United States.
+
+4.  Resolved, That the thanks of the American people are due to the
+soldiers and sailors of the Army and Navy, who have periled their
+lives in defense of their country and in vindication of the honor of
+its flag; that the nation owes to them some permanent recognition of
+their patriotism and their valor, and ample and permanent provision
+for those of their survivors who have received disabling and
+honorable wounds in the service of the country; and that the memories
+of those who have fallen in its defense shall be held in grateful and
+everlasting remembrance.
+
+5.  Resolved, That we approve and applaud the practical wisdom, the
+unselfish patriotism, and the unswerving fidelity to the Constitution
+and the principles of American liberty, with which Abraham Lincoln
+has discharged under circumstances of unparalleled difficulty the
+great duties and responsibilities of the Presidential office; that we
+approve and indorse as demanded by the emergency and essential to the
+preservation of the nation, and as within the provisions of the
+Constitution, the measures and acts which he has adopted to defend
+the nation against its open and secret foes; that we approve,
+especially, the Proclamation of Emancipation, and the employment as
+Union soldiers of men heretofore held in slavery; and that we have
+full confidence in his determination to carry these and all other
+constitutional measures essential to the salvation of the country
+into full and complete effect.
+
+6.  Resolved, That we deem it essential to the General welfare that
+harmony should prevail in the national councils, and we regard as
+worthy of public confidence and official trust those only who
+cordially indorse the principles proclaimed in these resolutions, and
+which should characterize the administration of the Government.
+
+7.  Resolved, That the Government owes to all men employed in its
+armies, without regard to distinction of color, the full protection
+of the laws of war, and that any violation of these laws, or of the
+usages of civilized nations in time of war, by the rebels now in
+arms, should be made the subject of prompt and full redress.
+
+8.  Resolved, That foreign immigration, which in the past has added
+so much to the wealth, development of resources, and increase of
+power to this nation, the asylum of the oppressed of all nations,
+should be fostered and encouraged by a liberal and just policy.
+
+9.  Resolved, That we are in favor of the speedy construction of the
+railroad to the Pacific coast.
+
+10.  Resolved, That the national faith, pledged for the redemption of
+the public debt, must be kept inviolate, and that for this purpose we
+recommend economy and rigid responsibility in the public
+expenditures, and a vigorous and just system of taxation: and that it
+is the duty of every loyal State to sustain the credit and promote
+the use of the national currency.
+
+11.  Resolved, That we approve the position taken by the Government
+that the people of the United States can never regard with
+indifference the attempt of any European power to overthrow by force
+or to supplant by fraud the institutions of any republican government
+on the Western Continent, and that they will view with extreme
+jealousy, as menacing to the peace and independence of their own
+country, the efforts of any such power to obtain new footholds for
+monarchical governments, sustained by foreign military force, in near
+proximity to the United States.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A DELEGATION FROM THE NATIONAL UNION LEAGUE,
+
+JUNE 9, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN--I can only say in response to the remarks of your
+chairman, that I am very grateful for the renewed confidence which
+has been accorded to me, both by the convention and by the National
+League.  I am not insensible at all to the personal compliment there
+is in this, yet I do not allow myself to believe that any but a small
+portion of it is to be appropriated as a personal compliment to me.
+The convention and the nation, I am assured, are alike animated by a
+higher view of the interests of the country, for the present and the
+great future, and the part I am entitled to appropriate as a
+compliment is only that part which I may lay hold of as being the
+opinion of the convention and of the League, that I am not entirely
+unworthy to be intrusted with the place I have occupied for the last
+three years.  I have not permitted myself, gentlemen, to conclude
+that I am the best man in the country; but I am reminded in this
+connection of a story of an old Dutch farmer, who remarked to a
+companion once that "it was not best to swap horses when crossing a
+stream."
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A DELEGATION FROM OHIO,
+
+JUNE 9, 1864.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--I am very much obliged to you for this compliment.  I
+have just been saying, and will repeat it, that the hardest of all
+speeches I have to answer is a serenade.  I never know what to say on
+these occasions.  I suppose that you have done me this kindness in
+connection with the action of the Baltimore convention, which has
+recently taken place, and with which, of course, I am very well
+satisfied.  What we want still more than Baltimore conventions, or
+Presidential elections, is success under General Grant.  I propose
+that you constantly bear in mind that the support you owe to the
+brave officers and soldiers in the field is of the very first
+importance, and we should therefore bend all our energies to that
+point.  Now without detaining you any longer, I propose that you help
+me to close up what I am now saying with three rousing cheers for
+General Grant and the officers and soldiers under his command.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO THE ENVOY FROM
+THE HAWAIIAN
+ISLANDS,
+
+JUNE 11, 1864.
+
+SIR:--In every light in which the State of the Hawaiian Islands can
+be contemplated, it is an object of profound interest for the United
+States.   Virtually it was once a colony.  It is now a near and
+intimate neighbor.  It is a haven of shelter and refreshment for our
+merchants, fishermen, seamen, and other citizens, when on their
+lawful occasions they are navigating the eastern seas and oceans.
+Its people are free, and its laws, language, and religion are largely
+the fruit of our own teaching and example.  The distinguished part
+which you, Mr. Minister, have acted in the history of that
+interesting country, is well known here.  It gives me pleasure to
+assure you of my sincere desire to do what I can to render now your
+sojourn in the United States agreeable to yourself, satisfactory to
+your sovereign, and beneficial to the Hawaiian people.
+
+
+
+
+REMARKS TO AN OHIO REGIMENT,
+
+JUNE 11, 1864.
+
+Soldiers! I understand you have just come from Ohio; come to help us
+in this the nation's day of trial, and also of its hopes.  I thank
+you for your promptness in responding to the call for troops.  Your
+services were never needed more than now.  I know not where you are
+going.  You may stay here and take the places of those who will be
+sent to the front, or you may go there yourselves.  Wherever you go I
+know you will do your best.  Again I thank you.  Good-by.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL L. THOMAS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 13, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Louisville, Kentucky:
+
+Complaint is made to me that in the vicinity of Henderson, our
+militia is seizing negroes and carrying them off without their own
+consent, and according to no rules whatever, except those of absolute
+violence.  I wish you would look into this and inform me, and see
+that the making soldiers of negroes is done according to the rules
+you are acting upon, so that unnecessary provocation and irritation
+be avoided.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO THOMAS WEBSTER.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., June 13, 1864.
+
+THOMAS WEBSTER, Philadelphia:
+
+Will try to leave here Wednesday afternoon, say at 4 P.M., remain
+till Thursday afternoon and then return.  This subject to events.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, June 15, 1864.  7 A.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT,
+Headquarters Army of the Potomac:
+
+I have just received your dispatch of 1 P.M. yesterday.  I begin to
+see it: you will succeed.  God bless you all.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS AT A SANITARY FAIR IN PHILADELPHIA,
+
+JUNE 16, 1864.
+
+I suppose that this toast is intended to open the way for me to say
+something.  War at the best is terrible, and this of ours in its
+magnitude and duration is one of the most terrible the world has ever
+known.  It has deranged business totally in many places, and perhaps
+in all.  It has destroyed property, destroyed life, and ruined homes.
+It has produced a national debt and a degree of taxation
+unprecedented in the history of this country.  It has caused mourning
+among us until the heavens may almost be said to be hung in black.
+And yet it continues.  It has had accompaniments not before known in
+the history of the world.  I mean the Sanitary and Christian
+Commissions, with their labors for the relief of the soldiers, and
+the Volunteer Refreshment Saloons, understood better by those who
+hear me than by myself, and these fairs, first begun at Chicago and
+next held in Boston, Cincinnati, and other cities.  The motive and
+object that lie at the bottom of them are worthy of the most that we
+can do for the soldier who goes to fight the battles of his country.
+From the fair and tender hand of women is much, very much, done for
+the soldier, continually reminding him of the care and thought for
+him at home.  The knowledge that he is not forgotten is grateful to
+his heart.  Another view of these institutions is worthy of thought.
+They are voluntary contributions, giving proof that the national
+resources are not at all exhausted, and that the national patriotism
+will sustain us through all.  It is a pertinent question, When is
+this war to end? I do not wish to name the day when it will end, lest
+the end should not come at the given time.  We accepted this war, and
+did not begin it.  We accepted it for an object, and when that object
+is accomplished the war will end, and I hope to God that it will
+never end until that object is accomplished.  We are going through
+with our task, so far as I am concerned, if it takes us three years
+longer.  I have not been in the habit of making predictions, but I am
+almost tempted now to hazard one.  I will.  It is, that Grant is this
+evening in a position, with Meade and Hancock, of Pennsylvania,
+whence he can never be dislodged by the enemy until Richmond is
+taken.  If I shall discover that General Grant may be greatly
+facilitated in the capture of Richmond by rapidly pouring to him a
+large number of armed men at the briefest notice, will you go? Will
+you march on with him? [Cries of "Yes, yes."] Then I shall call upon
+you when it is necessary.
+
+
+
+
+TO ATTORNEY-GENERAL BATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, Jun. 24, 1864
+
+HONORABLE ATTORNEY-GENERAL.
+
+SIR:--By authority of the Constitution, and moved thereto by the
+fourth section of the act of Congress, entitled "An act making
+appropriations for the support of the army for the year ending the
+thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-five, and for other
+purposes, approved June is, 1864," I require your opinion in writing
+as to what pay, bounty, and clothing are allowed by law to persons of
+color who were free on the nineteenth day of April, 1861, and who
+have been enlisted and mustered into the military service of the
+United States between the month of December, 1862, and the sixteenth
+of June, 1864.
+
+Please answer as you would do, on my requirement, if the act of June
+15, 1864, had not been passed, and I will so use your opinion as to
+satisfy that act.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MRS. LINCOLN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 24, 1864.
+
+MES. A. LINCOLN, Boston, Massachusetts:
+All well and very warm.  Tad and I have been to General Grant's army.
+Returned yesterday safe and sound.
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. ROSECRANS.
+WASHINGTON, June 24, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Complaint is made to me that General Brown does not do his best to
+suppress bushwhackers.  Please ascertain and report to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LETTER ACCEPTING THE NOMINATION FOR PRESIDENT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, June 27, 1864.
+
+HON. WILLIAM DENNISON AND OTHERS,
+a Committee of the Union National Convention.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--Your letter of the 14th inst.., formally notifying me
+that I have been nominated by the convention you represent for the
+Presidency of the United States for four years from the 4th of March
+next, has been received.  The nomination is gratefully accepted, as
+the resolutions of the convention, called the platform, are heartily
+approved.
+
+While the resolution in regard to the supplanting of republican
+government upon the Western Continent is fully concurred in, there
+might be misunderstanding were I not to say that the position of the
+Government in relation to the action of France in Mexico, as assumed
+through the State Department and indorsed by the convention among the
+measures and acts of the Executive, will be faithfully maintained so
+long as the state of facts shall leave that position pertinent and
+applicable.
+
+I am especially gratified that the soldier and seaman were not
+forgotten by the convention, as they forever must and will be
+remembered by the grateful country for whose salvation they devote
+their lives.
+
+Thanking you for the kind and complimentary terms in which you have
+communicated the nomination and other proceedings of the convention,
+I subscribe myself,
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL P. STEELE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, June 29, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL STEELE:
+
+I understand that Congress declines to admit to seats the persons
+sent as Senators and Representatives from Arkansas.  These persons
+apprehend that, in consequence, you may not support the new State
+government there as you otherwise would.   My wish is that you give
+that government and the people there the same support and protection
+that you would if the members had been admitted, because in no event,
+nor in any view of the case, can this do any harm, while it will be
+the best you can do toward suppressing the rebellion.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, June 29, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point:
+
+Dr. Worster wishes to visit you with a view of getting your
+permission to introduce into the army "Harmon's Sandal Sock."  Shall I
+give him a pass for that object?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO DAVID TOD.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., June 30, 1864.
+
+HON. DAVID TOD, Youngstown, Ohio:
+I have nominated you to be Secretary of the Treasury, in place of
+Governor Chase, who has resigned.  Please come without a moment's
+delay.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. L. SCRIPPS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, July 4, 1864.
+
+To JOHN L. SCRIPPS, E5Q.
+
+DEAR SIR:--Complaint is made to me that you are using your official
+power to defeat Mr. Arnold's nomination to Congress.  I am well
+satisfied with Mr. Arnold as a member of Congress, and I do not know
+that the man who might supplant him would be as satisfactory; but the
+correct principle, I think, is that all our friends should have
+absolute freedom of choice among our friends.  My wish, therefore, is
+that you will do just as you think fit with your own suffrage in the
+case, and not constrain any of your subordinates to [do] other than
+[as] he thinks fit with his.  This is precisely the rule I inculcated
+and adhered to on my part, when a certain other nomination, now
+recently made, was being canvassed for.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. W. GARRETT.
+WASHINGTON, July 5, 1864.
+
+J. W. GARRETT, President [B. & 0.  R. R.], Camden Station:
+
+You say telegraphic communication is re-established with Sandy Hook.
+Well, what does Sandy Hook say about operations of enemy and of Sigel
+during to-day?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FROM SECRETARY STANTON TO GOVERNOR SEYMOUR.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, July 5, 1864.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY HORATIO SEYMOUR,
+Governor of New York, Albany:
+
+The President directs me to inform you that a rebel force, variously
+estimated at from fifteen to twenty thousand men, have invaded the
+State of Maryland, and have taken Martinsburg and Harper's Ferry, and
+are threatening other points; that the public safety requires him to
+call upon the State executives for a militia force to repel this
+invasion.  He therefore directs me to call on you for a militia force
+of twelve thousand men from your State to serve not more than one
+hundred days, and to request that you will with the utmost despatch
+forward the troops to Washington by rail or steamboat as may be most
+expeditious.
+
+Please favor me with an answer at your earliest convenience.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION
+SUSPENDING THE WRIT OF HABEAS CORPUS,
+
+JULY 5, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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 power vested in
+the marshals by law; and
+
+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 insurrections and rebellion; and
+
+Whereas, the Congress of the United States, by an act approved on the
+third 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 habeas corpus in any case throughout the United
+States, or any part thereof; and
+
+Whereas, the said insurrection and rebellion still continue,
+endangering the existence of the Constitution and Government of the
+United States; and
+
+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
+
+Whereas, on the fifteenth day of September last, the President of the
+United States duly issued his proclamation, wherein he declared that
+the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus should be suspended
+throughout the United States, in Cases whereby the authority of the
+President of the United States, the 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 and regulations prescribed for the military and
+naval service by authority of the President of the United States, or
+for resisting a draft, or for any other offence against the military
+or naval service; and
+
+Whereas, many citizens of the State of Kentucky have joined the
+forces of the insurgents, who 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 the State; and
+
+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 the 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.
+
+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 habeas
+corpus 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 declared therein.  I do therefore hereby require of the
+military officers of the said State that the privilege of the habeas
+corpus 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 as military officers,
+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.  The martial laws 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.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+Done at the City of Washington this 5th day of July, in the year of
+our Lord 1864, and of the independence of the United States the
+eighty-eighth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION FOR A DAY OF PRAYER, JULY 7, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+Whereas, the Senate and House of Representatives at their last
+session adopted a concurrent resolution, which was approved on the
+second day of July instant, and which `was in the words following,
+namely:
+
+That the President of the United States be requested to appoint a day
+of 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 conscience 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.
+
+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
+resolutions, 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.
+
+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 other loyal and
+law-abiding people of the United States, to assemble in their
+preferred places of public worship on that day, and there to render
+to the Almighty and merciful Ruler of the Universe, such homage 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.
+
+In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.  Done at the city of Washington
+this seventh day of July, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight
+hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United States
+the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING A BILL "TO GUARANTEE TO CERTAIN STATES, WHOSE
+GOVERNMENTS HAVE BEEN USURPED OR OVERTHROWN, A REPUBLICAN FORM OF
+GOVERNMENT," AND CONCERNING RECONSTRUCTION,
+
+JULY 8, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+Whereas, the said bill was presented to the President of the United
+States for his approval less than one hour before the sine die
+adjournment of said session, and was not signed by him; and
+
+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:
+
+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 States and the people thereof shall have sufficiently
+returned to their obedience to the Constitution and the laws of the
+United States, in which cases militia-governors will be appointed
+with directions to proceed according to the bill.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed..............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TO HORACE GREELEY.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+July 9, 1864
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY.
+
+DEAR SIR:--Your letter of the 7th, with inclosures, received.
+
+If you can find any person, anywhere, professing to have any
+proposition of Jefferson Davis in writing, for peace, embracing the
+restoration of the Union and abandonment of slavery, whatever else it
+embraces, say to him he may come to me with you; and that if he
+really brings such proposition, he shall at the least have safe
+conduct with the paper (and without publicity, if he chooses) to the
+point where you shall have to meet him.  The same if there be two or
+more persons.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. W. GARRETT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., July 9, 1864
+
+J. W. GARRETT, Camden Station:
+
+What have you heard about a battle at Monocacy to-day? We have
+nothing about it here except what you say.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM GENERAL HALLECK
+TO GENERAL WALLACE.
+WASHINGTON, July 9, 1864.  11.57 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL L. WALLACE, Commanding Middle Department:
+
+I am directed by the President to say that you will rally your forces
+and make every possible effort to retard the enemy's march on
+Baltimore.
+
+H. W. HALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO T. SWAN AND OTHERS.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., July 10, 1864.  9.20 A.M.
+
+THOMAS SWAN AND OTHERS, Baltimore, Maryland:
+
+Yours of last night received.  I have not a single soldier but whom
+is being disposed by the military for the best protection of all.  By
+latest accounts the enemy is moving on Washington.  They cannot fly
+to either place.  Let us be vigilant, but keep cool.  I hope neither
+Baltimore nor Washington will be sacked.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON CITY, July TO, 1864.2 P.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Your dispatch to General Halleck, referring to what I may think in
+the present emergency, is shown me.   General Halleck says we have
+absolutely no force here fit to go to the field.  He thinks that with
+the hundred-day men and invalids we have here we can defend
+Washington, and, scarcely, Baltimore.  Besides these there are about
+eight thousand, not very reliable, under Howe, at Harper's Ferry with
+Hunter approaching that point very slowly, with what number I suppose
+you know better than I. Wallace, with some odds and ends, and part of
+what came up with Ricketts, was so badly beaten yesterday at
+Monocacy, that what is left can attempt no more than to defend
+Baltimore.  What we shall get in from Pennsylvania and New York will
+scarcely be worth counting, I fear.  Now, what I think is, that you
+should provide to retain your hold where you are, certainly, and
+bring the rest with you personally, and make a vigorous effort to
+destroy the enemy's forces in this vicinity.  I think there is really
+a fair chance to do this, if the movement is prompt.  This is what I
+think upon your suggestion, and is not an order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, July 11, 1864.  8 A.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Yours of 10.30 P.M. yesterday received, and very satisfactory.  The
+enemy will learn of Wright's arrival, and then the difficulty will be
+to unite Wright and Hunter south of the enemy before he will recross
+the Potomac.  Some firing between Rockville and here now.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., July 12, 1864.  11.30 AM.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Vague rumors have been reaching us for two or three days that
+Longstreet's corps is also on its way [to] this vicinity.  Look out
+for its absence from your front.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM AND LETTER TO HORACE GREELEY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, July 12, 1864.
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY, New York:
+
+I suppose you received my letter of the 9th.  I have just received
+yours of the 13th, and am disappointed by it.  I was not expecting
+you to send me a letter, but to bring me a man, or men.  Mr. Hay goes
+to you with my answer to yours of the 13th.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+[Carried by Major John Hay.]
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, JULY 15, 1864.
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:-Yours of the 13th is just received, and I am
+disappointed that you have not already reached here with those
+commissioners, if they would consent to come on being shown my letter
+to you of the 9th instant.  Show that and this to them, and if they
+will come on the terms stated in the former, bring them.  I not only
+intend a sincere effort for peace, but I intend that you shall be a
+personal witness that it is made.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+SAFE CONDUCT FOR CLEMENT C. CLAY AND OTHERS,
+
+JULY 16, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+By order of the President:
+JOHN HAY, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+[WASHINGTON] July 17.  1864.  11.25 A.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+In your dispatch of yesterday to General Sherman, I find the
+following, to wit:
+
+"I shall make a desperate effort to get a position here, which will
+hold the enemy without the necessity of so many men."
+
+Pressed as we are by lapse of time I am glad to hear you say this;
+and yet I do hope you may find a way that the effort shall not be
+desperate in the sense of great loss of life.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+President.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL D. HUNTER
+WASHINGTON JULY 17, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HUNTER, Harper's Ferry, West Va.
+
+Yours of this morning received.   You misconceive.  The order you
+complain of was only nominally mine, and was framed by those who
+really made it with no thought of making you a scapegoat.  It seemed
+to be General Grant's wish that the forces under General Wright and
+those under you should join and drive at the enemy under General
+Wright.  Wright had the larger part of the force, but you had the
+rank.  It was thought that you would prefer Crook's commanding your
+part to your serving in person under Wright.  That is all of it.
+General Grant wishes you to remain in command of the department, and
+I do not wish to order otherwise.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, July 18, 1864.  11.25 A.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Chattahoochee River, Georgia:
+
+I have seen your despatches objecting to agents of Northern States
+opening recruiting stations near your camps.  An act of Congress
+authorizes this, giving the appointment of agents to the States, and
+not to the Executive Government.  It is not for the War Department,
+or myself, to restrain or modify the law, in its execution, further
+than actual necessity may require.  To be candid, I was for the
+passage of the law, not apprehending at the time that it would
+produce such inconvenience to the armies in the field as you now
+cause me to fear.  Many of the States were very anxious for it, and I
+hoped that, with their State bounties, and active exertions, they
+would get out substantial additions to our colored forces, which,
+unlike white recruits, help us where they come from, as well as where
+they go to.  I still hope advantage from the law; and being a law, it
+must be treated as such by all of us.  We here will do what we
+consistently can to save you from difficulties arising out of it.
+May I ask, therefore, that you will give your hearty co-operation.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANNOUNCEMENT CONCERNING TERMS OF PEACE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, July 18, 1864.
+
+TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CALLING FOR FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND VOLUNTEERS,
+
+JULY 18, 1864,
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+Whereas the new enrolment 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:
+
+Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States,
+do issue this my last call for five hundred thousand volunteers for
+the military service:  Provided, nevertheless, That this call shall
+be reduced by all credits which may be established under section
+eight 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 services for which they enlist.
+
+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.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, July 20, 1864.  4.30 p.m.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Yours of yesterday, about a call for three hundred thousand, is
+received.  I suppose you had not seen the call for five hundred
+thousand, made the day before, and which, I suppose, covers the case.
+Always glad to have your suggestions.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. L. WRIGHT.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, JULY. 20, 1864.
+
+J. L. WRIGHT, Indianapolis, Ind.:
+
+All a mistake.  Mr. Stanton has not resigned.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL D. HUNTER.
+(Cipher.)
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT, JULY 23, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HUNTER, Harper's Ferry, West Va.
+
+Are you able to take care of the enemy, when he turns back upon you,
+as he probably will on finding that Wright has left?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR CURTIN, ENCLOSING A LETTER TO WILLIAM O. SNIDER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, July 25, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR CURTIN:
+
+Herewith is the manuscript letter for the gentleman who sent me a
+cane through your hands.  For my life I cannot make out his name; and
+therefore I cut it from his letter and pasted it on, as you see.  I
+suppose [sic] will remember who he is, and I will thank you to
+forward him the letter.  He dates his letter at Philadelphia.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, July 25, 1864.
+
+WILLIAM O. SNIDER:
+
+The cane you did me the honor to present through Governor Curtin was
+duly placed in my hand by him.  Please accept my thanks; and, at the
+same time, pardon me for not having sooner found time to tender them.
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FROM JOHN HAY TO J. C. WELLING.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON.
+July 25, 1864.
+
+J. C. WELLING, ESQ.
+
+SIR:--According to the request contained in your note, I have placed
+Mr. Gibson's letter of resignation in the hands of the President.  He
+has read the letter, and says he accepts the resignation, as he will
+be glad to do with any other, which may be tendered, as this is, for
+the purpose of taking an attitude of hostility against him.
+
+He says he was not aware that he was so much indebted to Mr. Gibson
+for having accepted the office at first, not remembering that he ever
+pressed him to do so, or that he gave it otherwise than as was usual,
+upon request made on behalf of Mr. Gibson.
+
+He thanks Mr. Gibson for his acknowledgment that he has been treated
+with personal kindness and consideration, and says he knows of but
+two small drawbacks upon Mr. Gibson's right to still receive such
+treatment, one of which is that he never could learn of his giving
+much attention to the duties of his office, and the other is this
+studied attempt of Mr. Gibson's to stab him.
+
+I am very truly,
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+JOHN HAY.
+
+
+
+
+TO COLONEL, FIRST N. Y. VETERAN CAVALRY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, JULY 25, 1864.
+
+Thomas Connor, a private in the First Veteran New York Cavalry, is
+now imprisoned at hard labor for desertion.  If the Colonel of said
+Regiment will say in writing on this sheets that he is willing to
+receive him back to the Regiment, I will pardon, and send him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, July 26, 1864. 2.30 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, near Atlanta:
+
+I have just seen yours complaining of the appointment of Hovey and
+Osterhaus.  The point you make is unquestionably a good one, and yet
+please hear a word from us.  My recollection is that both General
+Grant and yourself recommended both H [ovey] and O [sterhaus] for
+promotion, and these, with other strong recommendations, drew
+committals from us which we could neither honorably or safely
+disregard.  We blamed H [ovey] for coming away in the manner in which
+he did, but he knew he had apparent reason to feel disappointed and
+mortified, and we felt it was not best to crush one who certainly had
+been a good soldier.  As to [Osterhaus], we did not know of his
+leaving at the time we made the appointment, and do not now know the
+terms on which he left.  Not to have appointed him, as the case
+appeared to us at the time, would have been almost, if not quite, a
+violation of our word.  The word was given on what we thought was
+high merit and somewhat on his nationality.  I beg you to believe we
+do not act in a spirit of disregarding merit.  We expect to await
+your programme for further changes and promotions in your army.  My
+profoundest thanks to you and your whole army for the present
+campaign so far.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FROM SECRETARY STANTON TO GENERAL HALLECK.
+
+WASHINGTON CITY,
+July 27, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HALLECK,
+Chief of Staff of the Army:
+
+GENERAL:--Lieutenant-General Grant having signified that, owing to
+the difficulties and delay of communication between his headquarters
+and Washington, it is necessary that in the present emergency
+military orders must be issued directly from Washington, the
+President directs me to instruct you that all the military operations
+for the defense of the Middle Department, the Department of the
+Susquehanna, the Department of Washington, and the Department of West
+Virginia, and all the forces in those departments, are placed under
+your general command, and that you will be expected to take all
+military measures necessary for defense against any attack of the
+enemy and for his capture and destruction.  You will issue from time
+to time such orders to the commanders of the respective departments
+and to the military authorities therein as may be proper.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+WASHINGTON, July 27, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR JOHNSON, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Yours in relation to General A. C. Gillam just received.  Will look
+after the matter to-day.
+
+I also received yours about General Carl Schurz.  I appreciate him
+certainly, as highly as you do; but you can never know until you have
+the trial, how difficult it is to find a place for an officer of so
+high rank when there is no place seeking him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO Mrs. ANNE WILLIAMSON,
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+July 29, 1864.
+
+Mrs. ANNE WILLIAMSON.
+
+MADAM:--The plaid you send me is just now placed in my hands.  I
+thank you for that pretty and useful present, but still more for
+those good wishes for myself and our country, which prompted you to
+present it.
+
+Your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT, AUGUST 3, 1864.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, August 2, 1864.
+
+MR. PRESIDENT:--This note will introduce to you Mr. Schley of
+Baltimore, who desires to appeal to you for the revocation of an
+order of General Hunter, removing some persons, citizens of
+Frederick, beyond his lines, and imprisoning others.  This Department
+has no information of the reasons or proofs on which General Hunter
+acts, and I do not therefore feel at liberty to suspend or interfere
+with his action except under your direction.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+[Indorsement.]
+
+August 3, 1864.
+
+The Secretary of War will suspend the order of General Hunter
+mentioned within, until further order and direct him to send to the
+Department a brief report of what is known against each one proposed
+to be dealt with.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U, S. GRANT.
+(Cipher.)
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C..  August 3, 1864
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+I have seen your despatch in which you say, "I want Sheridan put in
+command of all the troops in the field, with instructions to put
+himself south of the enemy, and follow him to the death.  Wherever
+the enemy goes, let our troops go also."
+
+This, I think, is exactly right as to how our forces should move; but
+please look over the despatches you may have received from here, ever
+since you made that order, and discover, if you can, that there is
+any idea in the head of any one here of "putting our army south of
+the enemy," or of following him to the "death," in any direction.  I
+repeat to you, it will neither be done nor attempted, unless you
+watch it every day and hour, and force it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+[Here the President was mistaken in thinking that Sherman and Grant
+had the same inability of most of his previous general officers.   No
+one needed to watch Grant or Sherman, they only needed to get out of
+their way.  D.W.]
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HORACE GREELEY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 6, 1864
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY, New York:
+
+Yours to Major Hay about publication of our correspondence received.
+With the suppression of a few passages in your letters in regard to
+which I think you and I would not disagree, I should be glad of the
+publication.  Please come over and see me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO HORACE GREELEY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 8, 1864
+
+HON. HORACE GREELEY, New York:
+
+I telegraphed you Saturday.  Did you receive the despatch? Please
+answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ON DISLOYAL FAMILY MEMBER
+
+TO GENERAL S. O. BURBRIDGE.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+August 8, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURBRIDGE, Lexington, Ky.:
+
+Last December Mrs. Emily T. Helm, half-sister of Mrs. Lincoln, and
+widow of the rebel general, Ben Hardin Helm, stopped here on her way
+from Georgia to Kentucky, and I gave her a paper, as I remember, to
+protect her against the mere fact of her being General Helm's widow.
+I hear a rumor to-day that you recently sought to arrest her, but
+were prevented by her presenting the paper from me.  I do not intend
+to protect her against the consequences of disloyal words or acts,
+spoken or done by her since her return to Kentucky, and if the paper
+given her by me can be construed to give her protection for such
+words and acts, it is hereby revoked pro tanto.  Deal with her for
+current conduct just as you would with any other.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., August 14, 1864.  1.30 P.M.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+The Secretary of War and I concur that you had better confer with
+General Lee, and stipulate for a mutual discontinuance of house-
+burning and other destruction of private property.  The time and
+manner of conference and particulars of stipulation we leave, on our
+part, to your convenience and judgment.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., August 15,1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, near Atlanta, Ga.:
+
+If the Government should purchase, on its own account, cotton
+northward of you, and on the line of your communications, would it be
+an inconvenience to you, or detriment to the military service, for it
+to come to the north on the railroad?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INTERVIEW WITH JOHN T. MILLS,
+
+AUGUST [15?], 1864.
+
+
+Mr. President," said Governor Randall, "why can't you seek seclusion,
+and play hermit for a fortnight? It would reinvigorate you."
+
+"Ah," said the President, "two or three weeks would do me no good.  I
+cannot fly from my thoughts--my solicitude for this great country
+follows me wherever I go.  I do not think it is personal vanity or
+ambition, though I am not free from these infirmities, but I cannot
+but feel that the weal or woe of this great nation will be decided in
+November.  There is no program offered by any wing of the Democratic
+party but that must result in the permanent destruction of the Union.
+
+"But, Mr. President, General McClellan is in favor of crushing out
+this rebellion by force.  He will be the Chicago candidate."
+
+"Sir, the slightest knowledge of arithmetic will prove to any man
+that the rebel armies cannot be destroyed by Democratic strategy.  It
+would sacrifice all the white men of the North to do it.  There are
+now in the service of the United States nearly one hundred and fifty
+thousand able-bodied colored men, most of them under arms, defending
+and acquiring Union territory.  The Democratic strategy demands that
+these forces be disbanded, and that the masters be conciliated by
+restoring them to slavery.  The black men who now assist Union
+prisoners to escape are to be converted into our enemies, in the vain
+hope of gaining the good-will of their masters.  We shall have to
+fight two nations instead of one.
+
+"You cannot conciliate the South if you guarantee to them ultimate
+success; and the experience of the present war proves their success
+is inevitable if you fling the compulsory labor of millions of black
+men into their side of the scale.  Will you give our enemies such
+military advantages as insure success, and then depend on coaxing,
+flattery, and concession to get them back into the Union? Abandon all
+the posts now garrisoned by black men, take one hundred and fifty
+thousand men from our side and put them in the battle-field or corn-
+field against us, and we would be compelled to abandon the war in
+three weeks.
+
+"We have to hold territory in inclement and sickly places; where are
+the Democrats to do this? It was a free fight, and the field was open
+to the war Democrats to put down this rebellion by fighting against
+both master and slave, long before the present policy was
+inaugurated.
+
+"There have been men base enough to propose to me to return to
+slavery the black warriors of Port Hudson and Olustee, and thus win
+the respect of the masters they fought.  Should I do so, I should
+deserve to be damned in time and eternity.  Come what will, I will
+keep my faith with friend and foe.  My enemies pretend I am now
+carrying on this war for the sole purpose of abolition.  So long as I
+am President, it shall be carried on for the sole purpose of
+restoring the Union.  But no human power can subdue this rebellion
+without the use of the emancipation policy, and every other policy
+calculated to weaken the moral and physical forces of the rebellion.
+
+"Freedom has given us one hundred and fifty thousand men, raised on
+Southern soil.  It will give us more yet.  Just so much it has
+subtracted from the enemy, and, instead of alienating the South,
+there are now evidences of a fraternal feeling growing up between our
+men and the rank and file of the rebel soldiers.  Let my enemies
+prove to the country that the destruction of slavery is not necessary
+to a restoration of the Union.  I will abide the issue."
+
+
+
+
+ENDORSEMENT OF APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT,
+AUGUST 15, 1864.
+
+I am always for the man who wishes to work; and I shall be glad for
+this man to get suitable employment at Cavalry Depot, or elsewhere
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO H. J. RAYMOND.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, August 15, 1864
+
+HON. HENRY J. RAYMOND.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have proposed to Mr. Greeley that the Niagara
+correspondence be published, suppressing only the parts of his
+letters over which the red pencil is drawn in the copy which I
+herewith send.  He declines giving his consent to the publication of
+his letters unless these parts be published with the rest.  I have
+concluded that it is better for me to submit, for the time, to the
+consequences of the false position in which I consider he has placed
+me, than to subject the country to the consequences of publishing
+these discouraging and injurious parts.  I send you this, and the
+accompanying copy, not for publication, but merely to explain to you,
+and that you may preserve them until their proper time shall come.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 17, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+I have seen your despatch expressing your unwillingness to break your
+hold where you are.  Neither am I willing.  Hold on with a bulldog
+grip, and chew and choke as much as possible.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING COMMERCIAL REGULATIONS,
+AUGUST 18, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.  Done at the city of Washington,
+this eighteenth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United
+States of America, the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT CONCERNING AN EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS, AUGUST 18, 1864.
+
+If General Hitchcock can effect a special exchange of Thomas D.
+Armesy, now under conviction as a spy, or something of the sort, and
+in prison at for Major Nathan Goff, made a prisoner of war, and now
+in prison at Richmond, let it be done.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO THE 164TH OHIO REGIMENT,
+
+AUGUST 18, 1864.
+
+SOLDIERS:--You are about to return to your homes and your friends,
+after having, as I learn, performed in camp a comparatively short
+term of duty in this great contest.  I am greatly obliged to you, and
+to all who have come forward at the call of their country.  I wish it
+might be more generally and universally understood what the country
+is now engaged in.  We have, as all will agree, a free government,
+where every man has a right to be equal with every other man.  In
+this great struggle, this form of government and every form of human
+right is endangered if our enemies succeed.  There is more involved
+in this contest than is realized by every one.  There is involved in
+this struggle, the question whether your children and my children
+shall enjoy the privileges we have enjoyed.  I say this, in order to
+impress upon you, if you are not already so impressed, that no small
+matter should divert us from our great purpose.
+
+There may be some inequalities in the practical application of our
+system.  It is fair that each man shall pay taxes in exact proportion
+to the value of his property; but if we should wait, before
+collecting a tax, to adjust the taxes upon each man in exact
+proportion with every other man, we should never collect any tax at
+all.  There may be mistakes made sometimes; and things may be done
+wrong, while the officers of the Government do all they can to
+prevent mistakes.  But I beg of you, as citizens of this great
+Republic, not to let your minds be carried off from the great work we
+have before us.  This struggle is too large for you to be diverted
+from it by any small matter.  When you return to your homes, rise up
+to the height of a generation of men worthy of a free government, and
+we will carry out the great work we have commenced.  I return to you
+my sincere thanks, soldiers, for the honor you have done me this
+afternoon.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., August 20, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Bermuda Hundred, Va.:
+
+Please allow Judge Snead to go to his family on Eastern Shore, or
+give me some good reason why not.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO THE 166TH OHIO REGIMENT,
+
+AUGUST 22, 1864.
+
+SOLDIERS--I suppose you are going home to see your families and
+friends.  For the services you have done in this great struggle in
+which we are engaged, I present you sincere thanks for myself and the
+country.
+
+I almost always feel inclined, when I say anything to soldiers, to
+impress upon them, in a few brief remarks, the importance of success
+in this contest.  It is not merely for the day, but for all time to
+come, that we should perpetuate for our children's children that
+great and free government which we have enjoyed all our lives.  I beg
+you to remember this, not merely for my sake, but for yours.  I
+happen, temporarily, to occupy this big White House.  I am a living
+witness that any one of your children may look to come here as my
+father's child has.  It is in order that each one of you may have,
+through this free government which we have enjoyed, an open field,
+and a fair chance for your industry, enterprise, and intelligence;
+that you may all have equal privileges in the race of life with all
+its desirable human aspirations--it is for this that the struggle
+should be maintained, that we may not lose our birthrights--not only
+for one, but for two or three years, if necessary.  The nation is
+worth fighting for, to secure such an inestimable jewel.
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+August 23, 1864.
+
+This morning, as for some days past, it seems exceedingly probable
+that this administration will not be re-elected.  Then it will be my
+duty to so co-operate with the President-elect as to save the Union
+between the election and the inauguration; as he will have secured
+his election on such ground that he cannot possibly save it
+afterward.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, August 26, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR JOHNSON, Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+Thanks to General Gillam for making the news and also to you for
+sending it.  Does Joe Heiskell's "walking to meet us" mean any more
+than that "Joe" was scared and wanted to save his skin?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO B. H. BREWSTER.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C., August 30,1864.
+
+HON. B. H. BREWSTER, Astor House, New York:
+
+Your letter of yesterday received.  Thank you for it.  Please have no
+fears.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING COTTON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, August 31, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO COLONEL HUIDEKOPER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+SEPTEMBER 1, 1864
+
+COLONEL H. C. HUIDEKOPER, Meadville, Penn.
+
+SIR:  It is represented to me that there are at Rock Island,
+Illinois, as rebel prisoners of war, many persons of Northern and
+foreign birth who are unwilling to be exchanged and sent South, but
+who wish to take the oath of allegiance and enter the military
+service of the Union.  Colonel Huidekoper, on behalf of the people of
+some parts of Pennsylvania, wishes to pay the bounties the Government
+would have to pay to proper persons of this class, have them enter
+the service of the United States, and be credited to the localities
+furnishing the bounty money.  He will therefore proceed to Rock
+Island, ascertain the names of such persons (not including any who
+have attractions Southward), and telegraph them to the Provost-
+Marshal-General here, whereupon direction will be given to discharge
+the persons named upon their taking the oath of allegiance; and then
+upon the official evidence being furnished that they shall have been
+duly received and mustered into the service of the United States,
+their number will be credited as may be directed by Colonel
+Huidekoper.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OF THANKSGIVING,
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON CITY,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+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 worship in the United
+States, thanksgivings be offered to Him for His mercy in preserve our
+national existence against the insurgent rebels who have been waging
+a cruel war against the Government of the United States for its
+overthrow, and also that prayer be made for 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
+blessings 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDERS OF GRATITUDE AND REJOICING.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+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
+power 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+September 3, 1864.
+
+Ordered:  First, That on Monday, the fifth day of September,
+commencing at the hour of twelve o'clock noon, there shall be given a
+salute of one hundred 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 the Secretary of the Navy will issue the
+necessary directions in their respective departments for the
+execution of this order.
+
+Second, That on Wednesday, the 7th of September, commencing at the
+hour of twelve o'clock noon, there shall be fired a salute of one
+hundred guns at the arsenal at Washington, and at New York, Boston,
+Philadelphia, Baltimore, Pittsburg, Newport (Ky.), and St.  Louis,
+and New Orleans, Mobile, and Pensacola, Hilton Head, and Newbern, 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 for the capture of Atlanta.  The Secretary of War will
+issue directions for the execution of this order.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+President Of the United States.
+
+
+
+
+TO MRS. GURNEY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, SEPTEMBER 4, 1864.
+
+ELIZA P. GURNEY.
+
+MY ESTEEMED FRIEND:--I have not forgotten probably never shall forget
+the very impressive occasion when yourself and friends visited me on
+a Sabbath forenoon two years ago--nor has your kind letter, written
+nearly a year later, even been for gotten.  In all, it has been your
+purpose to strengthen my reliance on God.  I am much indebted to the
+good Christian people of the country for their constant prayer and
+consolations; and to no one of them, more than to yourself.  The
+purposes of the Almighty are perfect, and must prevail, though we
+erring mortals may fail to accurately perceive them in advance.  We
+hoped for a happy termination of this terrible war long before this;
+but God knows best, and has ruled otherwise.  We shall yet
+acknowledge His wisdom, and our own error therein.  Mean while we
+must work earnestly in the best light He gives us, trusting that so
+working still conduces to the great ends He ordains.  Surely He
+intends some great good to follow this mighty convulsion, which no
+mortal could make, and no mortal could stay.
+
+Your people--the Friends--have had, and are having, a very great
+trial.  On principle, and faith, opposed to both war and oppression,
+they can only practically oppose oppression by war.  For those
+appealing to me on conscientious grounds, I have done, and shall do,
+the best I could and can, in my own conscience, under my oath to the
+law.  That you believe this I doubt not, and believing it, I shall
+still receive, for our country and myself your earnest prayers to our
+Father in Heaven.
+
+Your sincere friend,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE OF COLORED PEOPLE FROM BALTIMORE WHO PRESENTED
+HIM WITH A BIBLE,
+
+SEPTEMBER 7, 1864.
+
+I can only say now, as I have often said before, it has always been a
+sentiment with me, that all mankind should be free.  So far as I have
+been able, so far as came within my sphere, I have always acted as I
+believed was just and right, and done all I could for the good of
+mankind. I have, in letters sent forth from this office, expressed
+myself better than I can now.
+
+In regard to the great Book, I have only to say it is the best gift
+which God has ever given to man.  All the good from the Saviour of
+the world is communicated to us through this book.  But for that
+Book, we could not know right from wrong.  All those things desirable
+to man are contained in it.  I return you sincere thanks for this
+very elegant copy of this great Book of God which you present.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR PICKERING.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 8, 1864:
+
+GOVERNOR PICKERING, Olympia, W. T.:
+
+Your patriotic despatch of yesterday received and will be published.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER OF THANKS TO HUNDRED-DAY TROOPS FROM OHIO.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON CITY, September 10, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 12, 1864.
+
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Sheridan and Early are facing each other at a dead-lock.  Could we
+not pick up a regiment here and there, to the number of say ten
+thousand men, and quietly but suddenly concentrate them at Sheridan's
+camp and enable him to make a strike?
+
+This is but a suggestion.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO JAMES G. BLAINE.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., September 13, 1864.
+
+HON. J. G. BLAINE, Augusta, Me.:
+On behalf of the Union, thanks to Maine.  Thanks to you personally
+for sending the news.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+P. S.--Send same to L. B. Smith and M. A. Blanchard, Portland, Me.
+A. L.
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, September 13, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Saint Louis:
+
+Postpone the execution of S. H. Anderson for two weeks.  Hear what
+his friends can say in mitigation and report to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+MAJOR ECKERT:
+Please send the above telegram.
+
+JNO. G. NICOLAY, Private Secretary.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL SLOUGH.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 16, 1864.
+
+GENERAL SLOUGH, Alexandria, Va.:
+
+On the 14th I commuted the sentence of Conley, but fearing you may
+not have received notice I send this.  Do not execute him.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 17,1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Atlanta, Georgia:
+
+I feel great interest in the subjects of your despatch mentioning
+corn and sorghum, and the contemplated visit to you.
+
+A. LINCOLN, President of the United States.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, September 19, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN:
+
+The State election of Indiana occurs on the 11th of October, and the
+loss of it to the friends of the Government would go far towards
+losing the whole Union cause.  The bad effect upon the November
+election, and especially the giving the State government to those who
+will oppose the war in every possible way, are too much to risk if it
+can be avoided.  The draft proceeds, notwithstanding its strong
+tendency to lose us the State.  Indiana is the only important State
+voting in October whose soldiers cannot vote in the field.  Anything
+you can safely do to let her soldiers or any part of them go home and
+vote at the State election will be greatly in point.  They need not
+remain for the Presidential election, but may return to you at once.
+This is in no sense an order, but is merely intended to impress you
+with the importance to the Army itself of your doing all you safely
+can, yourself being the judge of what you can safely do.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT CONCERNING AN EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS, SEPTEMBER 1864.
+
+The writer of this, who appeals for his brother, is our minister to
+Ecuador, and whom, if at all compatible, I would like to have obliged
+by a special exchange of his brother.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL P. SHERIDAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, September 20, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERIDAN, Winchester, Va.:
+
+Have just heard of your great victory.  God bless you all, officers
+and men.  Strongly inclined to come up and See you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL HITCHCOCK,
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 21, 1864.
+
+GENERAL HITCHCOCK:
+
+Please see the bearer, Mr. Broadwell, on a question about a mutual
+supplying of clothes to prisoners.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 22, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+I send this as an explanation to you, and to do justice to the
+Secretary of War.  I was induced, upon pressing application, to
+authorize the agents of one of the districts of Pennsylvania to
+recruit in one of the prison depots in Illinois; and the thing went
+so far before it came to the knowledge of the Secretary that, in my
+judgment, it could not be abandoned without greater evil than would
+follow its going through.  I did not know at the time that you had
+protested against that class of thing being done; and I now say that
+while this particular job must be completed, no other of the sort
+will be authorized, without an understanding with you, if at all.
+The Secretary of War is wholly free of any part in this blunder.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO POSTMASTER-GENERAL BLAIR.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+September 23, 1864.
+
+
+HON. MONTGOMERY BLAIR.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--You have generously said to me, more than once, that
+whenever your resignation could be a relief to me, it was at my
+disposal.  The time has come.  You very well know that this proceeds
+from no dissatisfaction of mine with you personally or officially.
+Your uniform kindness has been unsurpassed by that of any other
+friend, and while it is true that the war does not so greatly add to
+the difficulties of your department as to those of some others, it is
+yet much to say, as I most truly can, that in the three years and a
+half during which you have administered the General Post-Office, I
+remember no single complaint against you in connection therewith.
+
+Yours, as ever,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE PURCHASE OF PRODUCTS IN INSURRECTIONARY STATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, September 24, 1864.
+
+I. Congress having authorized the purchase for the United States of
+the products of States declared in insurrection, and the Secretary of
+the Treasury having designated New Orleans, Memphis, Nashville,
+Pensacola, Port Royal, Beaufort (North Carolina), and Norfolk, as
+places of purchase, and, with my approval, appointed agents and made
+regulations under which said products may be purchased, therefore:
+
+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 or parts 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 in transitu, or in store waiting transportation.
+
+III. Any person having the certificate of a purchasing agent, as
+prescribed by Treasury Regulation 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 fulfilment of the stipulations set forth in said certificate.
+
+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 I, shall be permitted by the
+military authority commanding at the place of sale to purchase from
+any authorized dealer at such place merchandise and other articles
+not contraband of war nor prohibited by 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 agents 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 routes set forth in the said
+certificate.
+
+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 of the order of such generals commanding, or other
+duly authorized military or naval officer, made in pursuance hereof,
+and all persons hindering or preventing such safe conduct of persons
+or property will, be deemed guilty of a military offense and punished
+accordingly.
+
+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 in transitu to any other person or than a purchasing
+agent and a designated of purchase shall be seized and forfeited to
+the 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, 1864.
+
+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 the insurrectionary States, or furnish transportation
+therefor under pain of being deemed guilty of unlawful trading with
+the enemy and punished accordingly.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., September 27, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN, Atlanta, Georgia:
+
+You say Jefferson Davis is on a visit to Hood.  I judge that Brown
+and Stephens are the objects of his visit.
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., September 29,1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+I hope it will have no constraint on you, nor do harm any way, for me
+to say I am a little afraid lest Lee sends reinforcements to Early,
+and thus enables him to turn upon Sheridan.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT.
+
+September 29, 1864.
+
+I think the bearer of this, Second Lieutenant Albee, deserves a
+hearing.  Will the Secretary of War please accord it to him?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER RETURNING THANKS TO THE VOLUNTEERS FOR ONE HUNDRED DAYS FROM
+THE STATES OF INDIANA, ILLINOIS, IOWA, AND WISCONSIN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, October 1, 1864.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+October 5, 1864
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+I inclose you a copy of a correspondence in regard to a contemplated
+exchange of naval prisoners through your lines, and not very distant
+from your headquarters.  It only came to the knowledge of the War
+Department and of myself yesterday, and it gives us some uneasiness.
+I therefore send it to you with the statement that, as the numbers to
+be exchanged under it are small, and so much has already been done to
+effect the exchange, I hope you may find it consistent to let it go
+forward under the general supervision of General Butler, and
+particularly in reference to the points he holds vital in exchanges.
+Still, you are at liberty to arrest the whole operation if in your
+judgment the public good requires it
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON A MEMORANDUM BY GENERAL McDOWELL,
+OCTOBER 7, 1864
+
+I well remember the meetings herein narrated.  See nothing for me to
+object to in the narrative as being made by General McDowell, except
+the phrase attributed to me "of the Jacobinism of Congress,"
+
+[This memorandum describes the private discussions that preceded the
+transfer of McClellan's army from the Potomac, where it had
+confronted the Confederates at Manassas. See H. J. Raymond: Life of
+Lincoln, p.  772]
+
+which phrase I do not remember using literally or in substance, and
+which I wish not to be published in any event.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO H. W. HOFFMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, October 10, 1864.
+
+HON. HENRY W. HOFFMAN.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--A convention of Maryland has framed a new constitution
+for the State; a public meeting is called for this evening at
+Baltimore to aid in securing its ratification by the people, and you
+ask a word from me for the occasion.  I presume the only feature of
+the instrument about which there is serious controversy is that which
+provides for the extinction of slavery.  It needs not to be a secret
+and I presume it is no secret, that I wish success to this provision.
+I desire it on every consideration.  I wish all men to be free.  I
+wish the material prosperity of the already free, which I feel sure
+the extinction of slavery would bring.  I wish to see in process of
+disappearing that only thing which ever could bring this nation to
+civil war.  I attempt no argument.  Argument upon the question is
+already exhausted by the abler, better informed, and more immediately
+interested sons of Maryland herself.  I only add that I shall be
+gratified exceedingly if the good people of the State shall, by their
+votes, ratify the new constitution.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR CURTIN.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 10, 1864, 5 P.M.
+
+GOVERNOR CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pa.:
+
+Yours of to-day just this moment received, and the Secretary having
+left it is impossible for me to answer to-day.  I have not received
+your letter from Erie.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO ROBERT T. LINCOLN, Cambridge, Mass.:
+
+Your letter makes us a little uneasy about your health.  Telegraph us
+how you are.  If you think it would help you, make us a visit.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 12, 1864.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Secretary of War not being in, I answer yours about election.
+Pennsylvania very close, and still in doubt on home vote.  Ohio
+largely for us, with all the members of Congress but two or three.
+Indiana largely for us,--Governor, it is said, by fifteen thousand,
+and eight of the eleven members of Congress.  Send us what you may
+know of your army vote.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+
+OCTOBER 19, 1864.
+
+
+FRIENDS AND FELLOW-CITIZENS:--I am notified that this is a compliment
+paid me by the loyal Marylanders resident in this District.  I infer
+that the adoption of the new constitution for the State furnishes the
+occasion, and that in your view the extirpation of slavery
+constitutes the chief merit of the new constitution.  Most heartily
+do I congratulate you, and Maryland, and the nation, and the world,
+upon this event.  I regret that it did not occur two years sooner,
+which, I am sure, would have saved the nation more money than would
+have met all the private loss incident to the measure; but it has
+come at last, and I sincerely hope its friends may fully realize all
+their anticipations of good from it, and that its opponents may by
+its effects be agreeably and profitably disappointed.
+
+A word upon another subject.  Something said by the Secretary of
+State in his recent speech at Auburn, has been construed by some into
+a threat, that if I shall be beaten at the election, I will, between
+then and the end of my constitutional term, do what I may be able to
+ruin the Government.
+
+Others regard the fact that the Chicago Convention adjourned, not
+sine die, but to meet again, if called to do so by a particular
+individual, as the intimation of a purpose that if their nominee
+shall be elected he will at once seize control of the Government.  I
+hope the good people will permit themselves to suffer no uneasiness
+on either point.  I am struggling to maintain the Government, not to
+overthrow it.  I am struggling especially to prevent others from
+overthrowing it.  I therefore say, that if I live, I shall remain
+President until the 4th of next March, and that whoever shall be
+constitutionally elected, in November, shall be duly installed as
+President on the 4th of March, and in the interval I shall do my
+utmost that whoever is to hold the helm for the next voyage shall
+start with the best possible chance of saving the ship.  This is due
+to the people, both on principle and under the Constitution.  Their
+will, constitutionally expressed, is the ultimate law for all.  If
+they should deliberately resolve to have immediate peace, even at the
+loss of their country and their liberties, I know not the power or
+the right to resist them.  It is their own business, and they must do
+as they please with their own.  I believe, however, they are still
+resolved to preserve their country and their liberties; and in this,
+in office or out of it, I am resolved to stand by them.  I may add,
+that in this purpose to save the country and its liberties, no
+classes of people seem so nearly unanimous as the soldiers in the
+field and the sailors afloat.  Do they not have the hardest of  it?
+Who should quail while they do not? God bless the soldiers and
+seamen, with all their brave commanders.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OF THANKSGIVING, OCTOBER 20, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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 working-
+men in every department of industry with abundant rewards.  Moreover,
+he has been pleased to animate and inspire our minds arid 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.
+
+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 be then, 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.
+
+In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this twentieth day of October, in the
+year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-four, and of
+the independence of the United States the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM To J. G. NICOLAY.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 21, 1864.  9.45 P.M.
+
+J. G. NICOLAY, Saint Louis, Missouri:
+
+While Curtis is fighting Price, have you any idea where the force
+under Rosecrans is, or what it is
+doing?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO WILLIAM B. CAMPBELL AND OTHERS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C.,
+October 22, 1864.
+
+
+MESSRS WILLIAM B. CAMPBELL, THOMAS A. R. NELSON, JAMES T. P. CARTER,
+JOHN WILLIAMS, A.  BLIZZARD, HENRY COOPER, BAILLIE PEYTON, JOHN
+LELLYET, EMERSON ETHERIDGE, and JOHN D. PERRYMAN.
+
+GENTLEMEN:--On the 15th day of this month, as I remember, a printed
+paper manuscript, with a few manuscript interlineations, called a
+protest, with your names appended thereto, and accompanied by another
+printed paper, purporting to be a proclamation by Andrew Johnson,
+Military Governor of Tennessee, and also a manuscript paper,
+purporting to be extracts from the Code of Tennessee, were laid
+before me.
+
+The protest, proclamation, and extracts are respectively as follows:
+
+[The protest is here recited, and also the proclamation of Governor
+Johnson, dated September 30, to which it refers, together with a list
+of the counties in East, Middle, and West Tennessee; also extracts
+from the Code of Tennessee in relation to electors of President and
+Vice-President, qualifications of voters for members of the General
+Assembly, places of holding elections, and officers of popular
+elections.]
+
+At the time these papers were presented, as before stated, I had
+never seen either of them, nor heard of the subject to which they
+related, except in a general way one day previously.
+
+Up to the present moment, nothing whatever upon the subject has
+passed between Governor Johnson, or any one else, connected with the
+proclamation, and myself.
+
+Since receiving the papers, as stated, I have given the subject such
+brief consideration as I have been able to do, in the midst of so
+many pressing public duties.
+
+My conclusion is, that I can have nothing to do with the matter,
+either to sustain the plan as the convention and Governor Johnson
+have initiated it, or to revoke or modify it as you demand.
+
+By the Constitution and laws, the President is charged with no duty
+in the presidential election in any State, nor do I in this case
+perceive any military reason for his interference in the matter.
+
+The movement set on foot by the convention and Governor Johnson does
+not, as seems to be assumed by you, emanate from the National
+Executive.
+
+In no proper sense can it be considered other than an independent
+movement of, at least, a portion of the loyal people of Tennessee.
+
+I do not perceive in the plan any menace, or violence, or coercion
+towards any one.
+
+Governor Johnson, like any other loyal citizen of Tennessee, has the
+right to favor any political plan he chooses, and, as military
+governor, it is his duty to keep peace among and for the loyal people
+of the State.
+
+I cannot discern that by this plan he purposes any more.  But you
+object to the plan.
+
+Leaving it alone will be your perfect security against it.  It is not
+proposed to force you into it.  Do as you please, on your own
+account, peaceably and loyally, and Governor Johnson will not molest
+you, but will protect you against violence as far as in his power.
+
+I presume that the conducting of a presidential election in Tennessee
+in strict accordance with the old Code of the State, is not now a
+possibility.
+
+It is scarcely necessary to add, that if any election shall be held
+and any votes shall be cast in the State of Tennessee for President
+and Vice-President of the United States, it will belong, not to the
+military agents, nor yet to the Executive Department, but exclusively
+to another department of the Government, to determine whether they
+are entitled to be counted in conformity with the Constitution and
+laws of the United States.
+
+Except it be to give protection against violence, I decline to
+interfere in any way with any presidential election.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL P. H. SHERIDAN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, October 22, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SHERIDAN:
+
+With great pleasure I tender to you and your brave army the thanks of
+the nation, and my own personal admiration and gratitude, for the
+month's operations in the Shenandoah Valley; and especially for the
+splendid work of October 19, 1864.
+Your obedient servant,
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. H. THOMAS.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., October 23, 1864 5 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+I have received information to-day, having great appearance of
+authenticity, that there is to be a rebel raid into Western Kentucky;
+that it is to consist of four thousand infantry and three thousand
+cavalry, and is to start from Corinth, Mississippi, On the fourth day
+of November.
+
+A. LINCOLN, President.
+
+Send copy to General Washburn at Memphis.
+A. L.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO T. T. DAVIS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D.C., October 31, 1864.
+
+HON. THOMAS T. DAVIS, Syracuse, N.Y.:
+
+I have ordered that Milton D. Norton be discharged on taking the
+oath.   Please notify his mother.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION ADMITTING NEVADA INTO THE UNION
+
+OCTOBER 31, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation
+
+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,
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of
+the United States to be affixed..........
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BURBRIDGE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 4, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURBRIDGE, Lexington, Ky.
+
+Suspend execution of all the deserters ordered to be executed on
+Sunday at Louisville, until further order, and send me the records in
+the cases. Acknowledge receipt.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO NAVAL OFFICER AT MOBILE BAY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 6, 1864.  9 P.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL CANBY, New Orleans, La.:
+
+Please forward with all possible despatch to the naval officer
+commanding at Mobile Bay the following order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+(Inclosure.)
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 6, 1864.
+
+NAVAL OFFICER IN COMMAND AT MOBILE BAY
+
+Do not on any account, or on any showing of authority whatever, from
+whomsoever purporting to come, allow the blockade to be violated.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SAILORS' FAIR, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., November 8, 1864.
+
+TO THE MANAGING COMMITTEE OF THE SAILORS' FAIR,
+Boston, Massachusetts
+
+Allow me to wish you a great success.  With the old fame of the Navy
+made brighter in the present war you cannot fail.  I name none lest I
+wrong others by omission.  To all, from rear-admiral to honest Jack,
+I tender the nation's admiration and gratitude.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO A. H. RICE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, November 8, 1864.
+
+HON. A. H. RICE, Boston, Massachusetts:
+
+Yours received. I have no other notice that the ox is mine.  If it be
+really so, I present it to the Sailors' Fair as a contribution.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+WASHINGTON, November 8, 1864.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Auburn, New York:
+
+News from Grant, Sherman, Thomas and Rosecrans satisfactory, but not
+important.  Pirate Florida captured by the Wachusett October 7, on
+the coast of Brazil.  The information is certain.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+NOVEMBER 9, 1864.
+
+FRIENDS AND FELLOW-CITIZENS:--Even before I had been informed by you
+that this compliment was paid me by loyal citizens of Pennsylvania,
+friendly to me, I had inferred that you were of that portion of my
+countrymen who think that the best interests of the nation are to be
+subserved by the support of the present administration.  I do not
+pretend to say that you, who think so, embrace all the patriotism and
+loyalty of the country, but I do believe, and I trust without
+personal interest, that the welfare of the country does require that
+such support and indorsement should be given.
+
+I earnestly believe that the consequences of this day's work, if it
+be as you assume, and as now seems probable, will be to the lasting
+advantage, if not to the very salvation, of the country.   I cannot
+at this hour say what has been the result of the election.   But,
+whatever it may be, I have no desire to modify this opinion: that all
+who have labored to-day in behalf of the Union have wrought for the
+best interests of the country and the world; not only for the
+present, but for all future ages.
+
+I am thankful to God for this approval of the people; but, while
+deeply grateful for this mark of their confidence in me, if I know my
+heart, my gratitude is free from any taint of personal triumph.  I do
+not impugn the motives of any one opposed to me.  It is no pleasure
+to me to triumph over any one, but I give thanks to the Almighty for
+this evidence of the people's resolution to stand by free government
+and the rights of humanity.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO H. W. HOFFMAN.
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C. November 10, 1864.
+
+H.  HOFFMAN, Baltimore, Md.:
+
+The Maryland soldiers in the Army of the Potomac cast a total vote of
+fourteen hundred and twenty-eight, out of which we get eleven hundred
+and sixty majority.  This is directly from General Meade and General
+Grant.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ON DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+NOVEMBER 10, 1864.
+
+It has long been a grave question whether any government, not too
+strong for the liberties of its people, can be strong enough to
+maintain its existence in great emergencies.  On this point the
+present rebellion brought our government to a severe test, and a
+presidential election occurring in regular course during the
+rebellion, added not a little to the strain.
+
+If the loyal people united were put to the utmost of their strength
+by the rebellion, must they not fail when divided and partially
+paralyzed by a political war among themselves? But the election was a
+necessity.   We cannot have free government without elections; and if
+the election could force us to forego or postpone a national
+election, it might fairly claim to have already conquered and ruined
+us.  The strife of the election is but human nature practically
+applied to the facts of the case.  What has occurred in this case
+must ever recur in similar cases.  Human nature will not change.  In
+any future great national trial, compared with the men of this, we
+will have as weak and as strong, as silly and as wise, as bad and as
+good.  Let us, therefore, study the incidents of this as philosophy
+to learn wisdom from, and none of them as wrongs to be revenged.
+
+But the election, along with its incidental and undesirable strife,
+has done good, too.  It has demonstrated that a people's government
+can sustain a national election in the midst of a great civil war.
+Until now, it has not been known to the world that this was a
+possibility.  It shows, also, how sound and strong we still are.  It
+shows that even among the candidates of the same party, he who is
+most devoted to the Union and most opposed to treason can receive
+most of the people's votes.  It shows, also, to the extent yet known,
+that we have more men now than we had when the war began.   Gold is
+good in its place; but living, brave, and patriotic men are better
+than gold.
+
+But the rebellion continues, and, now that the election is over, may
+not all have a common interest to reunite in a common effort to save
+our common country? For my own part, I have striven and shall strive
+to avoid placing any obstacle in the way.  So long as I have been
+here, I have not willingly planted a thorn in any man's bosom.  While
+I am duly sensible to the high compliment of a re-election, and duly
+grateful, as I trust, to Almighty God, for having directed my
+countrymen to a right conclusion, as I think, for their good, it adds
+nothing to my satisfaction that any other man may be disappointed by
+the result.
+
+May I ask those who have not differed with me to join with me in this
+same spirit towards those who have? And now, let me close by asking
+three hearty cheers for our brave soldiers and seamen, and their
+gallant and skillful commanders.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL S. O. BURBRIDGE.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., November 10, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BURBRIDGE, Lexington, Ky.:
+
+I have just received a telegram from Governor Bramlette saying:
+"General John B. Houston, a loyal man and prominent citizen, was
+arrested, and yesterday, started off by General Burbridge, to be sent
+beyond our lines by way of Catlettsburg, for no other offense than
+opposition to your re-election," and I have answered him as follows
+below, of which please take notice and report to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+WASHINGTON, D.C., November 10, 1864.
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Ky.:
+
+Yours of yesterday received.  I can scarcely believe that General
+John B. Houston has been arrested "for no other offense than
+opposition to my re-election;" for, if that had been deemed
+sufficient cause of arrest, I should have heard of more than one
+arrest in Kentucky on election day.  If, however, General Houston has
+been arrested for no other cause than opposition to my re-election,
+General Burbridge will discharge him at once, I sending him a copy of
+this as an order to that effect.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL S. A. HURLBUT.
+(Private.)
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, November 14, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HURLBUT:
+
+Few things since I have been here have impressed me more painfully
+than what, for four or five months past, has appeared a bitter
+military opposition to the new State government of Louisiana.   I
+still indulged some hope that I was mistaken in the fact; but copies
+of a correspondence on the subject between General Canby and
+yourself, and shown me to-day, dispel that hope.  A very fair
+proportion of the people of Louisiana have inaugurated a new State
+government, making an excellent new constitution--better for the poor
+black man than we have in Illinois.  This was done under military
+protection, directed by me, in the belief, still sincerely
+entertained, that with such a nucleus around which to build we could
+get the State into position again sooner than otherwise.  In this
+belief a general promise of protection and support, applicable alike
+to Louisiana and other States, was given in the last annual message.
+During the formation of the new government and constitution they were
+supported by nearly every loyal person, and opposed by every
+secessionist.  And this support and this opposition, from the
+respective standpoints of the parties, was perfectly consistent and
+logical.  Every Unionist ought to wish the new government to succeed;
+and every disunionist must desire it to fail.  Its failure would
+gladden the heart of Slidell in Europe, and of every enemy of the old
+flag in the world.  Every advocate of slavery naturally desires to
+see blasted and crushed the liberty promised the black man by the new
+constitution.  But why General Canby and General Hurlbut should join
+on the same side is to me incomprehensible.
+
+Of course, in the condition of things at New Orleans, the military
+must not be thwarted by the civil authority; but when the
+Constitutional Convention, for what it deems a breach of privilege,
+arrests an editor in no way connected with the military, the military
+necessity for insulting the convention and forcibly discharging the
+editor is difficult to perceive.  Neither is the military necessity
+for protecting the people against paying large salaries fixed by a
+legislature of their own choosing very apparent.  Equally difficult
+to perceive is the military necessity for forcibly interposing to
+prevent a bank from loaning its own money to the State.  These
+things, if they have occurred, are, at the best, no better than
+gratuitous hostility.  I wish I could hope that they may be shown not
+to have occurred.  To make assurance against misunderstanding, I
+repeat that in the existing condition of things in Louisiana, the
+military must not be thwarted by the civil authority; and I add that
+on points of difference the commanding general must be judge and
+master.  But I also add that in the exercise of this judgment and
+control, a purpose, obvious, and scarcely unavowed, to transcend all
+military necessity, in order to crush out the civil government, will
+not be overlooked.
+
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO MARYLAND UNION COMMITTEE,
+NOVEMBER 17, 1864.
+
+The President, in reply, said that he had to confess he had been duly
+notified of the intention to make this friendly call some days ago,
+and in this he had had a fair opportunity afforded to be ready with a
+set speech; but he had not prepared one, being too busy for that
+purpose.  He would say, however, that he was gratified with the
+result of the presidential election.  He had kept as near as he could
+to the exercise of his best judgment for the interest of the whole
+country, and to have the seal of approbation stamped on the course he
+had pursued was exceedingly grateful to his feelings.  He thought he
+could say, in as large a sense as any other man, that his pleasure
+consisted in belief that the policy he had pursued was the best, if
+not the only one, for the safety of the country.
+
+He had said before, and now repeated, that he indulged in no feeling
+of triumph over any man who thought or acted differently from
+himself.  He had no such feeling toward any living man.  When he
+thought of Maryland, in particular, he was of the opinion that she
+had more than double her share in what had occurred in the recent
+elections.  The adoption of a free-State constitution was a greater
+thing than the part taken by the people of the State in the
+presidential election.  He would any day have stipulated to lose
+Maryland in the presidential election to save it by the adoption of a
+free-State constitution, because the presidential election comes
+every four years, while that is a thing which, being done, cannot be
+undone.   He therefore thought that in that they had a victory for
+the right worth a great deal more than their part in the presidential
+election, though of the latter he thought highly.  He had once before
+said, but would say again, that those who have differed with us and
+opposed us will see that the result of the presidential election is
+better for their own good than if they had been successful.
+
+Thanking the committee for their compliment, he brought his brief
+speech to a close.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING BLOCKADE,
+NOVEMBER 19, 1864
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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:
+
+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 deeemd advisable that they should be opened to
+domestic and foreign commerce:
+
+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 first 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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.  Done at the city of Washington,
+this nineteenth day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand
+eight hundred and sixty-four, and of the independence of the United
+States the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+FIVE-STAR MOTHER
+
+TO MRS. BIXBY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+November 21, 1864.
+
+MRS. BIXBY, Boston, Massachusetts.
+
+DEAR MADAM:--I have been shown in the files of the War Department a
+statement of the Adjutant-General of Massachusetts that you are the
+mother of five sons who have died gloriously on the field of battle.
+I feel how weak and fruitless must be any words of mine which should
+attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming.  But
+I cannot refrain from tendering to you the consolation that may be
+found in the thanks of the Republic they died to save.  I pray that
+our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and
+leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the
+solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice
+upon the altar of freedom.
+
+Yours very sincerely and respectfully,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. PHILLIPS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+November 21, 1864.
+
+DEACON JOHN PHILLIPS.
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have heard of the incident at the polls in your town,
+in which you acted so honorable a part, and I take the liberty of
+writing to you to express my personal gratitude for the compliment
+paid me by the suffrage of a citizen so venerable.
+
+The example of such devotion to civic duties in one whose days have
+already been extended an average lifetime beyond the Psalmist's
+limit, cannot but be valuable and fruitful.  It is not for myself
+only, but for the country which you have in your sphere served so
+long and so well, that I thank you.
+
+Your friend and servant,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE.
+WASHINGTON, D. C. NOVEMBER 22, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR BRAMLETTE, Frankfort, Ky.:
+
+Yours of to-day received.  It seems that Lieutenant-Governor Jacobs
+and Colonel Wolford are stationary now.  General Sudarth and Mr.
+Hodges are here, and the Secretary of War and myself are trying to
+devise means of pacification and harmony for Kentucky, which we hope
+to effect soon, now that the passion-exciting subject of the election
+is past.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR CURTIN,
+WASHINGTON, D.C., NOVEMBER 25, 1864
+
+GOVERNOR CURTIN, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania;
+
+I have no knowledge, information, or belief, that three States--or
+any States, offer to resume allegiance.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ROSECRANS.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON D.C., NOV. 26, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS:
+
+Please telegraph me briefly on what charge and evidence Mrs. Anna B.
+Martin has been sent to the penitentiary at Alton.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MEMORANDUM,
+
+DECEMBER 3, 1864.
+
+On Thursday of last week, two ladies from Tennessee came before the
+President, asking the release of their husbands held as prisoners of
+war at Johnson's Island.  They were put off until Friday, when they
+came again, and were again put off until Saturday.  At each of the
+interviews one of the ladies urged that her husband was a religious
+man, and on Saturday the President ordered the release of the
+prisoners, when he said to this lady: "You say your husband is a
+religious man; tell him when you meet him, that I say I am not much
+of a judge of religion, but that, in my opinion, the religion that
+sets men to rebel and fight against their own government, because, as
+they think, that government does not sufficiently help some men to
+eat their bread in the sweat of other men's faces, is not the sort of
+religion upon which people can get to heaven."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER CONCERNING THE STEAMER "FUNAYMA SOLACE."
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 3, 1864.
+
+A war steamer, called the Funayma Solace, 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+WASHINGTON CITY, December 5, 1864
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES: `
+
+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 whilst in command of the United States steamer
+Keaysarge, which led to the total destruction of the piratical craft
+Alabama, on the 19th of June, 1864., a vessel superior in tonnage,
+superior in number of guns, and superior in number of crew.
+
+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:
+
+That any line officer of the navy or marine corps may be advanced one
+grade, if, upon recommendation by the President by name he receives
+the thanks of Congress for highly distinguished conduct in conflict
+with the enemy, or far extraordinary heroism in the line of his
+profession.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+WASHINGTON CITY, December 5, 1864.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend
+that Lieutenant William B. Gushing, United States Navy, receive a
+vote of thanks from Congress for his important, gallant, and perilous
+achievement in destroying the rebel ironclad steamer Albemarle on the
+night of the 27th of October, 1864., at Plymouth, N. C.
+
+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.
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANNUAL MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+DECEMBER 6, 1864.
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS OF THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+Again the blessings of health and abundant harvests claim our
+profoundest gratitude to Almighty God.
+
+The condition of our foreign affairs is reasonably satisfactory.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Our relations are of the most friendly nature with Chile, the
+Argentine Republic, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Paraguay, San Salvador, and
+Haiti.
+
+During the past year no differences of any kind have arisen with any
+of these republics, and on the other hand, their sympathies with the
+United States are constantly expressed with cordiality and
+earnestness.
+
+The claim arising from the seizure of the cargo of the brig
+Macedonian in 1821 has been paid in full by the Government of Chile.
+
+Civil war continues in the Spanish part of San Domingo, apparently
+without prospect of an early close.
+
+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.
+
+I solicit your authority to furnish to the republic a gunboat, at
+moderate cost, to be reimbursed to the United States by instalments.
+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.
+
+The proposed overland telegraph between America and Europe, by the
+way of Bering 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 co-operate 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The rebellion which has so long been flagrant in China has at last
+been suppressed, with the co-operating 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 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.
+
+Commissioners have been appointed under the treaty with Great Britain
+on the adjustment of the claims of the Hudson Bay and Puget Sound
+Agricultural Companies, in Oregon, and are now proceeding to the
+execution of the trust assigned to them.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.  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.
+
+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,
+196,007.62, 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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
+be such additional legislation as shall be required to meet the just
+expectations of the Secretary.
+
+The public debt on the first 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 $500,000,000.  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 bona fide 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.
+
+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.
+
+The public debt on the first 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.
+
+The national banking system is proving to be acceptable to
+capitalists and to the people.  On the twenty-fifth day of November
+five hundred and eighty-four 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The general exhibit of the Navy, including vessels under construction
+on the first of December, 1864, shows a total of 671 vessels,
+carrying 4610 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.
+
+The total number of men at this time in the naval service, including
+officers, is about 51,000.
+
+There have been captured by the Navy during the year 324 vessels, and
+the whole number of naval captures since hostilities commenced is
+1379, of which 267 are steamers.
+
+The gross proceeds arising from the sale of condemned prize property
+thus far reported amount to $14,369,250.51.  A large amount of such
+proceeds is still under adjudication and yet to be reported.
+
+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 fourth of March, 1861, to the first of
+November, 1864, is $238,647,262.35.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 $206,532.42.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The quantity of public land disposed of during the five quarters
+ending on the thirtieth 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.
+
+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.
+
+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 one hundred miles westward from the initial
+point at Omaha City, Nebraska, 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.
+
+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 produce of the mines of precious metals in that
+region has during the year reached, if not exceeded, $100,000,000 in
+value.
+
+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.
+
+
+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 3oth 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.
+
+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
+1430.  Only twelve of them were soldiers, of whom seven have since
+died.  The remainder are those who under the law receive pensions
+because of relationship to Revolutionary soldiers.  During the year
+ending the thirtieth of June, 1864, $4,504,616.92 have been paid to
+pensioners of all classes.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The most remarkable feature in the military operations of the year is
+General Sherman's attempted march of three hundred 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.
+
+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 twelve
+thousand 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.
+
+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 time 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.
+
+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.
+
+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 how the
+increase has been produced or to show that it would have been greater
+but for the war, which is probably true.  The important fact remains
+demonstrated that we have more men now than we had when the war
+began; that we are not exhausted nor in process of exhaustion; that
+we are gaining strength and may if need be maintain the contest
+indefinitely.  [This sentence recognizes the concern of a guerilla
+war after the main war finished.]This as to men.  Material resources
+are now more complete and abundant than ever.
+
+The national resources, then, are unexhausted, and, as we believe,
+inexhaustible.  The public purpose to re-establish 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.
+
+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.
+
+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 re-
+enslave such persons, another, and not I, must be their instrument to
+perform it.
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE,
+DECEMBER 6, 1864.
+
+FRIENDS AND FELLOW-CITIZENS:--I believe I shall never be old enough
+to speak without embarrassment when I have nothing to talk about.  I
+have no good news to tell you, and yet I have no bad news to tell.
+We have talked of elections until there is nothing more to say about
+them.  The most interesting news now we have is from Sherman.  We all
+know where he went in at, but I can't tell where he will come out at.
+I will now close by proposing three cheers for General Sherman and
+his army.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR HALL.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 7, 1864.
+
+GOVERNOR HALL, Jefferson City, Mo.:
+
+Complaint is made to me of the doings of a man at Hannibal, Mo., by
+the name of Haywood, who, as I am told, has charge of some militia
+force, and is not in the United States service.  Please inquire into
+the matter and correct anything you may find amiss if in your power.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COLONEL FASLEIGH.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 8, 1864.
+
+COLONEL FASLEIGH, Louisville, Ky.:
+
+I am appealed to in behalf of a man by the name of Frank Fairbairns,
+said to have been for a long time and still in prison, without any
+definite ground stated. How is it?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER APPOINTING COMMISSIONERS TO INVESTIGATE THE MILITARY DIVISION
+WEST OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, December 10, 1864.
+
+ORDERED, First, that Major-General William P. 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G, H. THOMAS.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., December 16, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL THOMAS, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Please accept for yourself, officers, and men, the nation's thanks
+for your good work of yesterday.  You made a magnificent beginning; a
+grand consummation is within your easy reach.  Do not let it slip.
+
+A. LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+ORIGIN OF THE "GREENBACK" CURRENCY
+
+TO COLONEL B. D. TAYLOR
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December [16 ?], 1864.
+
+DEAR COLONEL DICK:--I have long determined to make public the origin
+of the greenback and tell the world that it is Dick Taylor's
+creation.  You had always been friendly to me, and when troublous
+times fell on us, and my shoulders, though broad and willing, were
+weak, and myself surrounded by such circumstances and such people
+that I knew not whom to trust, then I said in my extremity: "I will
+send for Colonel Taylor; he will know what to do."  I think it was in
+January, 1862, on or about the 16th, that I did so.  You came, and I
+said to you:
+
+"What can we do?"  Said you, "Why, issue Treasury notes bearing no
+interest, printed on the best banking paper.  Issue enough to pay off
+the Army expenses and declare it legal tender."
+
+Chase thought it a hazardous thing, but we finally accomplished it,
+and gave the people of this Republic the greatest blessing they ever
+had-their own paper to pay their own debts.
+
+It is due to you, the father of the present greenback, that the
+people should know it, and I take great pleasure in making it known.
+How many times have I laughed at you telling me plainly that I was
+too lazy to be anything but a lawyer.
+
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT CHATTANOOGA.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 16, 1864
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND at Chattanooga, Tenn.:
+
+It is said that Harry Walters, a private in the Anderson cavalry, is
+now and for a long time has been in prison at Chattanooga.  Please
+report to me what is his condition, and for what he is imprisoned.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+CALL FOR 300,000 VOLUNTEERS, DECEMBER 19, 1864.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+A Proclamation
+
+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
+country 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
+
+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
+
+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
+
+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):
+
+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 fifteenth 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 fifteenth day of February, 1865.
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed..........
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+SHERMAN'S MARCH TO THE SEA
+
+TO GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 26, 1864
+
+MY DEAR GENERAL SHERMAN:--Many, many thanks for your Christmas gift,
+the capture of Savannah.
+
+When you were about leaving Atlanta for the Atlantic coast, I was
+anxious, if not fearful; but feeling that you were the better judge,
+and remembering that "nothing risked, nothing gained," I did not
+interfere.  Now, the undertaking being a success, the honor is all
+yours; for I believe none of us went further than to acquiesce.
+
+And taking the work of General Thomas into the count, as it should be
+taken, it is indeed a great success.  Not only does it afford the
+obvious and immediate military advantages; but in showing to the
+world that your army could be divided, putting the stronger part to
+an important new service, and yet leaving enough to vanquish the old
+opposing force of the whole,--Hood's army,--it brings those who sat
+in darkness to see a great light.  But what next?
+
+I suppose it will be safe if I leave General Grant and yourself to
+decide.
+
+Please make my grateful acknowledgments to your whole army of
+officers and men.
+
+Yours very truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT LEXINGTON.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, December 27, 1864.
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND at Lexington, Ky.:
+
+If within your power send me the particulars of the causes for which
+Lieutenant-Governor Jacob was arrested and sent away.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO J. MACLEAN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 27, 1864.
+
+
+Dr. JOHN MACLEAN:
+
+MY DEAR SIR:--I have the honor to acknowledge the reception of your
+note of the twentieth of December, conveying the announcement that
+the Trustees of the College of New Jersey had conferred upon me the
+degree of Doctor of Laws.
+
+The assurance conveyed by this high compliment, that the course of
+the Government which I represent, has received the approval of a body
+of gentlemen of such character and intelligence, in this time of
+public trial, is most grateful to me.
+
+Thoughtful men must feel that the fate of civilization upon this
+continent is involved in the issue of our contest.  Among the most
+gratifying proofs of this conviction is the hearty devotion
+everywhere exhibited by our schools and colleges to the national
+cause.
+
+I am most thankful if my labors have seemed to conduct to the
+preservation of those institutions, under which alone we can expect
+good government and in its train sound learning, and the progress of
+the liberal arts.
+
+I am, sir, very truly, your obedient servant,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT NASHVILLE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 28, 1864.
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND at Nashville, Tenn.:
+
+Suspend execution of James R. Mallory, for six weeks from Friday the
+thirtieth of this month, which time I have given his friends to make
+proof, if they can, upon certain points.
+
+A. LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., December 28, 1864. 5.30 p.m.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+If there be no objection, please tell me what you now understand of
+the Wilmington expedition, present and prospective.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 29, 1864.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER:
+
+There is a man in Company I, Eleventh Connecticut Volunteers, First
+Brigade, Third Division, Twenty-fourth Army Corps, at Chapin's Farm,
+Va.; under the assumed name of William Stanley, but whose real name
+is Frank R. Judd, and who is under arrest, and probably about to be
+tried for desertion.  He is the son of our present minister to
+Prussia, who is a close personal friend of Senator Trumbull and
+myself.  We are not willing for the boy to be shot, but we think it
+as well that his trial go regularly on, suspending execution until
+further order from me and reporting to me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COLONEL WARNER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, December 30, 1864.
+
+COLONEL WARNER, Indianapolis, Ind.:
+
+It is said that you were on the court-martial that tried John Lennon,
+and that you are disposed to advise his being pardoned and sent to
+his regiment.  If this be true, telegraph me to that effect at once.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO J. WILLIAMS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 4, 1865.
+
+JOHN WILLIAMS, Springfield, Ill.:
+
+Let Trumbo's substitute be regularly mustered in, send me the
+evidence that it is done and I will then discharge Trumbo.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
+
+WASHINGTON, January 5, 1865.
+
+TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 5, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Richard T. Jacob, Lieutenant-Governor of Kentucky, is at the
+Spotswood House, in Richmond, under an order of General Burbridge not
+to return to Kentucky.  Please communicate leave to him to pass our
+lines, and come to me here at Washington.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, January 6, 1865, LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point:
+
+If there is a man at City Point by the name of Waterman Thornton who
+is in trouble about desertion, please have his case briefly stated to
+me and do not let him be executed meantime.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS,
+
+WASHINGTON, January 9, 1865.
+
+TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES: 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 twentieth
+of May, 1863, and twentieth of July, 1863, respectively, the
+ratifications of which were exchanged at Brussels on the twenty-
+fourth 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO SCHUYLER COLFAX.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 9, 1865.
+
+HON. SCHUYLER COLFAX,
+Speaker of the House of Representatives.
+
+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 Col.
+Thomas M. Key of an interview between himself and General Howell Cobb
+on the fourteenth [15th] day of June, 1862, on the banks of the
+Chickahominy, on the subject of the exchange of prisoners of war."
+
+I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING COMMERCE,
+JANUARY 10, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+Whereas the act of Congress of the twenty-eighth 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 third 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;"
+
+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 third of March, 1845, aforesaid, from and
+after the date of this proclamation.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this tenth day of January, in the
+year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred-and sixty-five, and of
+the independence of the United States of America the eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL B. F. BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 10, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+No principal report of yours on the Wilmington expedition has ever
+reached the War Department, as I am informed there.  A preliminary
+report did reach here, but was returned to General Grant at his
+request.  Of course, leave to publish cannot be given without
+inspection of the paper, and not then if it should be deemed to be
+detrimental to the public service.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL B. F. BUTLER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 13, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.:
+
+Yours asking leave to come to Washington is received.  You have been
+summoned by the Committee on the Conduct of the War to attend here,
+which, of course, you will do.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 15, 1865.
+
+GOVERNOR JOHNSON, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Yours announcing ordinance of emancipation received. Thanks to the
+convention and to you.  When do you expect to be here?  Would be glad
+to have your suggestion as to supplying your place of military
+governor.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. M. DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 15, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL DODGE, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+It is represented to me that there is so much irregular violence in
+northern Missouri as to be driving away the people and almost
+depopulating it.  Please gather information, and consider whether an
+appeal to the people there to go to their homes and let one another
+alone recognizing as a full right of protection for each that he lets
+others alone, and banning only him who refuses to let others alone
+may not enable you to withdraw the troops, their presence itself
+[being] a cause of irritation and constant apprehension, and thus
+restore peace and quiet, and returning prosperity.  Please consider
+this and telegraph or write me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+FIRST OVERTURES FOR SURRENDER FROM DAVIS
+
+TO P. P. BLAIR, SR.
+
+WASHINGTON, January 18, 1865.
+
+F. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+
+SIR:-You having shown me Mr. Davis's letter to you of the twelfth
+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.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, January 19, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Please read and answer this letter as though I was not President, but
+only a friend.  My son, now in his twenty-second year, having
+graduated at Harvard, wishes to see something of the war before it
+ends.  I do not wish to put him in the ranks, nor yet to give him a
+commission, to which those who have already served long are better
+entitled and better qualified to hold.  Could he, without
+embarrassment to you, or detriment to the service, go into your
+military family with some nominal rank, I, and not the public,
+furnishing his necessary means? If no, say so without the least
+hesitation, because I am as anxious and as deeply interested that you
+shall not be encumbered as you can be yourself.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 19, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL DODGE, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+If Mrs. Beattie, alias Mrs. Wolff, shall be sentenced to death,
+notify me, and postpone the execution till further order.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ORD.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 19, 1864
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD:
+
+You have a man in arrest for desertion passing by the name of
+Stanley.  William Stanley, I think, but whose real name is different.
+He is the son of so close a friend of mine that I must not let him be
+executed.  Please let me know what is his present and prospective
+condition.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. M. DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 24, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL DODGE, St.  Louis, Mo.:
+
+It is said an old lady in Clay County, Missouri, by name Mrs.
+Winifred B. Price, is about being sent South.  If she is not
+misbehaving let her remain.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR JOHNSON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 24, 1865.
+
+HON. ANDREW JOHNSON, Nashville, Tennessee:
+
+Several members of the Cabinet, with myself, considered the question,
+to-day, as to the time of your coming on here. While we fully
+appreciate your wish to remain in Tennessee until her State
+government shall be completely reinaugurated, it is our unanimous
+conclusion that it is unsafe for you to not be here on the 4th of
+March.  Be sure to reach here by that time.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE, JANUARY 24, 1865.
+
+REVEREND SIR, AND LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:
+
+I accept with emotions of profoundest gratitude, the beautiful gift
+you have been pleased to present to me.  You will, of course, expect
+that I acknowledge it.  So much has been said about Gettysburg and so
+well, that for me to attempt to say more may perhaps only serve to
+weaken the force of that which has already been said.  A most
+graceful and eloquent tribute was paid to the patriotism and self-
+denying labors of the American ladies, on the occasion of the
+consecration of the National Cemetery at Gettysburg, by our
+illustrious friend, Edward Everett, now, alas! departed from earth.
+His life was a truly great one, and I think the greatest part of it
+was that which crowned its closing years, I wish you to read, if you
+have not already done so, the eloquent and truthful words which he
+then spoke of the women of America.  Truly, the services they have
+rendered to the defenders of our country in this perilous time, and
+are yet rendering, can never be estimated as they ought to be.  For
+your kind wishes to me personally, I beg leave to render you likewise
+my sincerest thanks.  I assure you they are reciprocated. And now,
+gentlemen and ladies, may God bless you all.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 25, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point
+
+If Newell W. Root, of First Connecticut Heavy Artillery, is under
+sentence of death, please telegraph me briefly the circumstances.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL GRANT.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 25, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Having received the report in the case of Newell W. Root, I do not
+interfere further in the case.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+EARLY CONSULTATIONS WITH REBELS
+
+INSTRUCTIONS TO MAJOR ECKERT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 30, 1865.
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT.
+
+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.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM SECRETARY OF WAR TO GENERAL ORD.
+(Cipher.)
+WAR DEPARTMENT, WASHINGTON, D. C., January 30, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD,  Headquarters Army of the James:
+
+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.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+INDORSEMENT ON A LETTER FROM J. M. ASHLEY.
+
+HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
+January 31, 1865.
+
+DEAR SIR:--The report is in circulation in the House that Peace
+Commissioners are on their way or in the city, and is being used
+against us.  If it is true, I fear we shall lose the bill.  Please
+authorize me to contradict it, if it is not true.
+
+Respectfully,
+J. M. ASHLEY.
+
+To the President.
+
+
+(Indorsement.)
+
+So far as I know there are no Peace Commissioners in the city or
+likely to be in it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+January 31, 1865
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, January 31, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+A messenger is coming to you on the business contained in your
+despatch.  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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INSTRUCTIONS TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+January 31, 1865.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State
+
+You will proceed to Fortress Monroe, Virginia, 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.  You will make known to them that three
+things are indispensable to wit:
+
+1.  The restoration of the national authority throughout all the
+States.
+
+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.
+
+3.  No cessation of hostilities short of an end of the war and the
+disbanding of all forces hostile to the Government.
+
+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.  You will not assume to definitely
+consummate anything.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PASSAGE THROUGH CONGRESS OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT FOR THE
+ABOLISHING OF SLAVERY
+
+RESPONSE TO A SERENADE, JANUARY 31, 1865.
+
+He supposed the passage through Congress of the Constitutional
+amendment for the abolishing of slavery throughout the United States
+was the occasion to which he was indebted for the honor of this call.
+
+The occasion was one of congratulation to the country, and to the
+whole world.  But there is a task yet before us--to go forward and
+consummate by the votes of the States that which Congress so nobly
+began yesterday.  He had the honor to inform those present that
+Illinois had already done the work.  Maryland was about half through,
+but he felt proud that Illinois was a little ahead.
+
+He thought this measure was a very fitting if not an indispensable
+adjunct to the winding up of the great difficulty.  He wished the
+reunion of all the States perfected, and so effected as to remove all
+causes of disturbance in the future; and, to attain this end, it was
+necessary that the original disturbing cause should, if possible, be
+rooted out.  He thought all would bear him witness that he had never
+shirked from doing all that he could to eradicate slavery, by issuing
+an Emancipation Proclamation.  But that proclamation falls short of
+what the amendment will be when fully consummated.  A question might
+be raised whether the proclamation was legally valid.  It might be
+added, that it only aided those who came into our lines, and that it
+was inoperative as to those who did not give themselves up; or that
+it would have no effect upon the children of the slaves born
+hereafter; in fact, it would be urged that it did not meet the evil.
+But this amendment is a king's cure for all evils.  It winds the
+whole thing up.  He would repeat, that it was the fitting if not the
+indispensable adjunct to the consummation of the great game we are
+playing.  He could not but congratulate all present--himself, the
+country, and the whole world upon this great moral victory.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, February 1, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point:
+
+Let nothing which is transpiring change, hinder, or delay your
+military movements or plans.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MAJOR ECKERT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 1, 1865.
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT,
+Care of General Grant, City Point, Va.:
+
+Call at Fortress Monroe, and put yourself under direction of Mr.
+Seward, whom you will find there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Say to the gentlemen I will meet them personally at Fortress Monroe
+as soon as I can get there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Fortress Monroe, Va.
+
+Induced by a despatch of General Grant, I join you at Fort Monroe, as
+soon as I can come.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER TO MAKE CORRECTIONS IN THE DRAFT.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON CITY, February 6, 1865
+
+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: 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.
+
+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
+fifteenth of this month.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 6, 1865.
+
+PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL:
+
+These gentlemen distinctly say to me this morning that what they want
+is the means from your office of showing their people that the quota
+assigned to them is right. They think it will take but little time-
+two hours, they say. Please give there double the time and every
+facility you can.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+February 6, 1865.
+
+The Provost-Marshal brings this letter back to me and says he cannot
+give the facility required without detriment to the service, and
+thereupon he is excused from doing it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO LIEUTENANT-COLONEL GLENN.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 7, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-COLONEL GLENN,
+Commanding Post at Henderson, Ky.:
+
+Complaint is made to me that you are forcing negroes into the
+military service, and even torturing them--riding them on rails and
+the like to extort their consent.  I hope this may be a mistake.  The
+like must not be done by you, or any one under you.  You must not
+force negroes any more than white men.  Answer me on this.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GOVERNOR SMITH.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, February 8, 1865.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY GOVERNOR SMITH, of Vermont:
+
+Complaint is made to me, by Vermont, that the assignment of her quota
+for the draft on the pending call is intrinsically unjust, and also
+in bad faith of the Government's promise to fairly allow credits for
+men previously furnished.  To illustrate, a supposed case is stated
+as follows:
+
+Vermont and New Hampshire must between them furnish six thousand men
+on the pending call; and being equal, each must furnish as many as
+the other in the long run. But the Government finds that on former
+calls Vermont furnished a surplus of five hundred, and New Hampshire
+a surplus, of fifteen hundred. These two surpluses making two
+thousand and added to the six thousand, making eight thousand to be
+furnished by the two States, or four thousand each less, by fair
+credits.  Then subtract Vermont's surplus of five hundred from her
+four thousand, leaves three thousand five hundred as her quota on the
+pending call; and likewise subtract New Hampshire's surplus of
+fifteen hundred from her four thousand, leaves two thousand five
+hundred as her quota on the pending call.  These three thousand five
+hundred and two thousand five hundred make precisely six thousand,
+which the supposed case requires from the two States, and it is just
+equal for Vermont to furnish one thousand more now than New
+Hampshire, because New Hampshire has heretofore furnished one
+thousand more than Vermont, which equalizes the burdens of the two in
+the long run.  And this result, so far from being bad faith to
+Vermont, is indispensable to keeping good faith with New Hampshire.
+By no other result can the six thousand men be obtained from the two
+States, and, at the same time deal justly and keep faith with both,
+and we do but confuse ourselves in questioning the process by which
+the right result is reached. The supposed case is perfect as an
+illustration.
+
+The pending call is not for three hundred thousand men subject to
+fair credits, but is for three hundred thousand remaining after all
+fair credits have been deducted, and it is impossible to concede what
+Vermont asks without coming out short of three hundred thousand men,
+or making other localities pay for the partiality shown her.
+
+This upon the case stated. If there be different reasons for making
+an allowance to Vermont, let them be presented and considered.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 8, 1865.
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF
+REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 8, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point.  Va.:
+
+I am called on by the House of Representatives to give an account of
+my interview with Messrs.  Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell, and it is
+very desirable to me to put your despatch of February 1, to the
+Secretary of War, in which, among other things, you say: "I fear now
+their going back without any expression from any one in authority
+will have a bad influence."  I think the despatch does you credit,
+while I do not see that it can embarrass you.  May I use it?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+REPLY TO A COMMITTEE OF CONGRESS, REPORTING
+THE RESULT OF THE ELECTORAL COUNT,
+
+FEBRUARY 9, 1865.
+
+With deep gratitude to my countrymen for this mark of their
+confidence; with a distrust of my own ability to perform the duty
+required under the most favorable circumstances, and now rendered
+doubly difficult by existing national perils; yet with a firm
+reliance on the strength of our free government, and the eventual
+loyalty of the people to the just principles upon which it is
+founded, and above all with an unshaken faith in the Supreme Ruler of
+nations, I accept this trust.  Be pleased to signify this to the
+respective Houses of Congress.
+
+
+
+
+CHRONOLOGIC REVIEW OF PEACE PROPOSALS
+
+MESSAGE TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 10, 1865
+
+TO THE HONORABLE THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
+
+In response to your resolution of the eighth 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:
+
+December 28, 1864.
+
+Allow the bearer, F. P. Blair, Sr., to pass our lines, go South, and
+return.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+RICHMOND, VA., January 12, 1865.
+F. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+SIR: I have deemed it proper, and probably desirable to you, to give
+you in this for in the substance of remarks made by me, to be
+repeated by you to President Lincoln, etc., etc.
+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.
+Yours, etc.,
+JEFFERSON DAVIS.
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+WASHINGTON, January 18, 1865.
+
+P. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+
+SIR:--Your having shown me Mr. Davis's letter to you of the twelfth
+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.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+January 28, 1865
+
+To-day Mr. Blair tells me that on the twenty-first 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' letter about "the two countries,"
+to which Mr. Davis replied that he so understood it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards the Secretary of War placed in my hands the following
+telegram, indorsed by him, as appears:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH WAR DEPARTMENT.
+The following telegram received at Washington January 29, 1865, from
+headquarters Army of James,
+
+6.30 P.M., January 29, 1865:
+"HON. EDWIN M. STANTON,  "Secretary of War:
+"The following despatch 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:
+
+"E. O. C. ORD, Major-General, Commanding.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF POTOMAC,
+January 29, 1863.  4 P.M.
+'MAJOR-GENERAL E. O. C. ORD,
+'Headquarters Army of James:
+'The following despatch 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.
+'JNO. G. PARKE, Major-General, Commanding.'
+
+
+"'FROM HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY Cos, 29th.
+'MAJOR-GENERAL JNO. G. PARKE, 'Headquarters Army of Potomac:
+'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. to-morrow morning.
+'O. B. WILCOX,
+'Major-General, Commanding Ninth Corps.'
+
+
+"January 29, 8.30 P.M.
+"Respectfully referred to the President for such instructions as he
+may be pleased to give.
+"EDWIN M. STANTON,  "Secretary of War."
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON CITY, January 29, 1865.  10 P.M.
+(Sent at 2 A.M., 30th.)
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD.
+
+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 telegraph will be
+submitted for his directions.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,
+Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards, by my direction, the Secretary of War telegraphed General
+Ord as follows, to wit:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D.C., January 30.  10.30 A.M.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL E. O. C. ORD,
+Headquarters Army of the James.
+
+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.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards I prepared and put into the hands of Major Thomas T.
+Eckert the following instructions and message:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT.  WASHINGTON, January 30, 1865
+
+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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+CITY POINT, VA..  February 1, 1865.
+
+MESSRS. ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS, J. A. CAMPBELL AND
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+
+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.
+
+THOMAS T. ECKERT,
+Major and Aide-de-Camp.
+
+
+
+WASHINGTON, January 18, 1865.
+F. P. BLAIR, ESQ.
+
+SIR:--Your having shown me Mr. Davis's letter to you of the twelfth
+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.
+Yours, etc.,   A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards, but before Major Eckert had departed, the following
+dispatch was received from General Grant:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+
+The following telegram received at Washington January 30, 1865, from
+City Point, Va., 10.30 A.M., January 30, 1865:
+
+"His EXCELLENCY ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
+President of the United States:
+
+"The following communication was received here last evening:
+
+"'PETERSBURG, VA., January 30, 1865.
+'LIEUTENANT-GENERAL U.S. GRANT,
+Commanding Armies United States.
+'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.
+'Very respectfully, yours,
+'ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS.
+'J. A. CAMPBELL.
+'R. M. T. HUNTER.'"
+
+
+"I have sent directions to receive these gentlemen, and expect to
+have them at my quarters this evening, awaiting your instructions.
+U.S. GRANT,
+Lieutenant-General, Commanding
+Armies United States."
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION
+WASHINGTON, January 13, 1865
+(Sent at 1.30 P.M.)
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+A messenger is coming to you on the business contained in your
+despatch.  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.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+When Major Eckert departed, he bore with him a letter of the
+Secretary of War to General Grant, as follows, to wit:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., January 30, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, Commanding, etc.
+
+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.
+
+By order of the President:
+EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War.
+
+
+
+
+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:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, January 31, 1865.
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State:
+
+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.
+
+You will make known to them that three things are indispensable, to
+Wit:
+
+1.  The restoration of the national authority throughout all the
+States.
+
+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.
+
+3.  No cessation of hostilities short of an end of the war and the
+disbanding of all forces hostile to the Government.
+
+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.
+
+You will not assume to definitely consummate anything.
+
+Yours, etc.,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+On the day of its date the following telegram was sent to General
+Grant:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 1,1865
+(Sent at 9.30 A.M.)
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Let nothing which is transpiring change, hinder, or delay your
+military movements or plans.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Afterwards the following despatch was received from General Grant:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+The following telegram received at Washington, 2.30 P.M., February 1,
+1865, from City Point, Va., February 1, 12.30 PM., 1865:
+
+"His EXCELLENCY A. LINCOLN, President United States:
+
+"Your despatch 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.
+
+"U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant-General."
+
+
+
+
+To notify Major Eckert that the Secretary of State would be at
+Fortress Monroe, and to put them in communication, the following
+despatch was sent:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 1, 1865.
+
+MAJOR T. T. ECKERT,
+Care of General Grant, City Point, Va.:
+
+Call at Fortress Monroe and put yourself under direction of Mr. S.,
+whom you will find there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+On the morning of the 2d instant the following telegrams were
+received by me respectively from the Secretary of State and Major
+Eckert:
+
+FORT MONROE, VA.,
+February 1,1865.  11.30 PM.
+
+THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+Arrived at 10 this evening.  Richmond party not here.  I remain here.
+
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
+
+
+
+CITY POINT, VA.,
+February 1, 1865.  10 P.M.
+
+HIS EXCELLENCY A. LINCOLN, President of the United States:
+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.
+
+
+
+
+At 8 P.M. the following note, addressed to General Grant, was
+received:
+
+CITY POINT, VA.,
+February 1, 1865
+
+"LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT.
+"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.
+Very respectfully yours,
+ALEX. H. STEPHENS
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+J. A. CAMPBELL."
+
+
+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 to-
+morrow unless otherwise ordered.
+
+THOS. T. ECKERT, Major, etc.
+
+
+
+
+On reading this despatch 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:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+
+The following telegram received at Washington
+4.35 A.M., February 2, 1865, from City Point, Va., February 1, 10.30
+P.M., 1865:
+
+"HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, "Secretary of War:
+
+"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 despatch, 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.
+
+"U.S. GRANT
+"Lieutenant-General,"
+
+
+
+
+This despatch of General Grant changed my purpose, and accordingly I
+telegraphed him and the Secretary of State, respectively, as follows:
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865.  (Sent at 9 A.M.)
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+Say to the gentlemen I will meet them personally at Fortress Monroe
+as soon as I can get there.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 2, 1865.  (Sent at 9 A.M.)
+
+HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Fortress Monroe, Va.:
+
+Induced by a despatch from General Grant, I join you at Fort Monroe
+as soon as I can come.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+Before starting, the following despatch was shown me.  I proceeded,
+nevertheless:
+
+OFFICE UNITED STATES MILITARY TELEGRAPH,
+WAR DEPARTMENT.
+The following telegram received at Washington, February 2, 1865, from
+City Point, Va., 9 A.M., February 2, 1865:
+
+"HON. WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State, Fort Monroe:
+
+"The gentlemen here have accepted the proposed terms, and will leave
+for Fort Monroe at 9.30 A.M.
+
+"U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant-General."
+
+(Copy to HON. Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War, Washington.)
+
+
+
+
+On the night of the 2nd 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 despatch to me of the 1st he characterizes as "not satisfactory."
+That answer is as follows, to wit:
+
+CITY POINT, VA., February 1, 1865.
+THOMAS T. ECKERT, Major and Aid-de-Camp.
+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.  Our instructions are contained in a letter of which the
+following is a copy:
+
+"RICHMOND, January 28, 1865.
+"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.
+"With great respect, your obedient servant,
+"JEFFERSON DAVIS."
+
+
+
+The substantial object to be obtained by the informal conference is
+to ascertain upon what terms the existing war can be terminated
+honorably.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Very respectfully, yours,
+ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS.
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+JOHN A. CAMPBELL.
+
+
+
+
+A note of these gentlemen, subsequently addressed to General Grant,
+has already been given in Major Eckert's despatch of the 1st instant.
+
+I also here saw, for the first time, the following note, addressed by
+the Richmond gentlemen to Major Eckert:
+
+CITY POINT, VA., February 2, 1865.
+THOMAS T. ECKERT, Major and Aid-de-Camp.
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Very respectfully, yours, etc.,
+
+ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS,
+J. A. CAMPBELL,
+R. M. T. HUNTER.
+
+
+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.
+THOMAS T. ECKERT
+Major and Aid-de-Camp.
+
+
+
+
+On the morning of the third 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 ever would consent to reunion, and yet they
+equally omitted to declare that they never would 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.
+
+The foregoing, containing, as is believed, all the information sought
+is respectfully submitted.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+MESSAGE TO THE SENATE.
+
+WASHINGTON, February 10, 1865
+
+To THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES:
+
+In answer to the resolution of the Senate of the eighth 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.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO THE PRESIDENT:
+
+The Secretary of State, to whom was referred a resolution of the
+Senate of the 8th instant, requesting "the President of the United
+States, if, in his opinion, not incompatible with the public
+interests, to furnish to the Senate any information in his possession
+concerning recent conversations or communications with certain
+rebels, said to have taken place under executive sanction, including
+communications with the rebel Jefferson Davis, and any correspondence
+relating thereto," has the honor to report that the Senate may
+properly be referred to a special message of the President bearing
+upon the subject of the resolution, and transmitted to the House this
+day.  Appended to this report is a copy of an instruction which has
+been addressed to Charles Francis Adams, Esq., envoy extraordinary
+and minister plenipotentiary of the United States at London, and
+which is the only correspondence found in this department touching
+the subject referred to in the resolution.
+
+Respectfully submitted,
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
+DEPARTMENT OF STATE, WASHINGTON, February 10, 1865.
+
+
+
+
+MR. SEWARD TO MR. ADAMS.
+(Extract.)
+No.  1258.
+
+DEPARTMENT OF STATE, WASHINGTON, February 7,1865
+
+On the morning of the 3d, the President, attended by the Secretary,
+received Messrs.  Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell on board the United
+States steam transport River Queen in Hampton Roads.  The conference
+was altogether informal.  There was no attendance of secretaries,
+clerks, or other witnesses.  Nothing was written or read.  The
+conversation, although earnest and free, was calm, and courteous, and
+kind on both sides.  The Richmond party approached the discussion
+rather indirectly, and at no time did they either make categorical
+demands, or tender formal stipulations or absolute refusals.
+Nevertheless, during the conference, which lasted four hours, the
+several points at issue between the Government and the insurgents
+were distinctly raised, and discussed fully, intelligently, and in an
+amicable spirit.  What the insurgent party seemed chiefly to favor
+was a postponement of the question of separation, upon which the war
+is waged, and a mutual direction of efforts of the Government, as
+well as those of the insurgents, to some extrinsic policy or scheme
+for a season during which passions might be expected to subside, and
+the armies be reduced, and trade and intercourse between the people
+of both sections resumed.  It was suggested by them that through such
+postponement we might now have immediate peace, with some not very
+certain prospect of an ultimate satisfactory adjustment of political
+relations between this Government and the States, section, or people
+now engaged in conflict with it.
+
+This suggestion, though deliberately considered, was nevertheless
+regarded by the President as one of armistice or truce, and he
+announced that we can agree to no cessation or suspension of
+hostilities, except on the basis of the disbandment of the insurgent
+forces, and the restoration of the national authority throughout all
+the States in the Union.  Collaterally, and in subordination to the
+proposition which was thus announced, the antislavery policy of the
+United States was reviewed in all its bearings, and the President
+announced that he must not be expected to depart from the positions
+he had heretofore assumed in his proclamation of emancipation and
+other documents, as these positions were reiterated in his last
+annual message.  It was further declared by the President that the
+complete restoration of the national authority was an indispensable
+condition of any assent on our part to whatever form of peace might
+be proposed.  The President assured the other party that, while he
+must adhere to these positions, he would be prepared, so far as power
+is lodged with the Executive, to exercise liberality.  His power,
+however, is limited by the Constitution; and when peace should be
+made, Congress must necessarily act in regard to appropriations of
+money and to the admission of representatives from the
+insurrectionary States.  The Richmond party were then informed that
+Congress had, on the 31st ultimo, adopted by a constitutional
+majority a joint resolution submitting to the several States the
+proposition to abolish slavery throughout the Union, and that there
+is every reason to expect that it will be soon accepted by three
+fourths of the States, so as to become a part of the national organic
+law.
+
+The conference came to an end by mutual acquiescence, without
+producing an agreement of views upon the several matters discussed,
+or any of them.  Nevertheless, it is perhaps of some importance that
+we have been able to submit our opinions and views directly to
+prominent insurgents, and to hear them in answer in a courteous and
+not unfriendly manner.
+
+I am, sir, your obedient servant,
+
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
+
+
+
+
+TO ADMIRAL DAVID D. PORTER.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+February 10, 1865
+
+REAR-ADMIRAL DAVID D. PORTER,
+Commanding North Atlantic Squadron, Hampton Roads, Va.
+
+SIR:--It is made my agreeable duty to enclose herewith the joint
+resolution approved 24th January, 1865, tendering the thanks of
+Congress to yourself, the officers and men under your command for
+their gallantry and good conduct in the capture of Fort Fisher, and
+through you to all who participated in that brilliant and decisive
+victory under your command.
+
+Very respectfully,
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL S. POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 12, 1865
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+I understand that provost-marshals in different parts of Missouri are
+assuming to decide that the conditions of bonds are forfeited, and
+therefore are seizing and selling property to pay damages.  This, if
+true, is both outrageous and ridiculous.   Do not allow it.  The
+courts, and not provost-marshals, are to decide such questions unless
+when military necessity makes an exception.  Also excuse John Eaton,
+of Clay County, and Wesley Martin, of Platte, from being sent South,
+and let them go East if anywhere.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+
+
+TO THE COMMANDING OFFICERS IN WEST TENNESSEE
+
+WASHINGTON,
+February 13, 1865.
+
+TO THE MILITARY OFFICERS COMMANDING IN WEST
+TENNESSEE:
+
+While I cannot 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.
+
+Of your military necessities you must judge and execute, but please
+do so in the spirit and with the purpose above indicated.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL J. POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 14, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Yours of yesterday about provost-marshal system received.  As part of
+the same subject, let me say I am now pressed in regard to a pending
+assessment in St.  Louis County.  Please examine and satisfy yourself
+whether this assessment should proceed or be abandoned; and if you
+decide that it is to proceed, please examine as to the propriety of
+its application to a gentleman by the name of Charles McLaran.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON February 15, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Please ascertain whether General Fisk's administration is as good as
+it might be, and answer me.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONVENING THE SENATE IN EXTRA SESSION,
+
+FEBRUARY 17, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation
+
+Whereas objects of interest to the United States require that the
+Senate should be convened at twelve o'clock on the fourth of March
+next to receive and act upon such communications as may be made to it
+on the part of the Executive;
+
+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 fourth day of March next,
+at twelve 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.
+
+Given under my hand and the seal of the United States, at
+Washington...............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO OFFICER IN COMMAND AT HARPER'S FERRY.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 17, 1865
+
+OFFICER IN COMMAND AT HARPER'S FERRY:
+
+Chaplain Fitzgibbon yesterday sent me a despatch invoking Clemency
+for Jackson, Stewart, and Randall, who are to be shot to-day.  The
+despatch is so vague that there is no means here of ascertaining
+whether or not the execution of sentence of one or more of them may
+not already have been ordered.  If not suspend execution of sentence
+m their cases until further orders and forward records of trials for
+examination.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+MAJOR ECKERT:
+Please send above telegram
+JNO. G. NICOLAY.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 24, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Virginia:
+
+I am in a little perplexity.  I was induced to authorize a gentleman
+to bring Roger A. Pryor here with a view of effecting an exchange of
+him; but since then I have seen a despatch of yours showing that you
+specially object to his exchange.  Meantime he has reached here and
+reported to me.  It is an ungracious thing for me to send him back to
+prison,  and yet inadmissible for him to remain here long.  Cannot
+you help me out with it? I can conceive that there may be difference
+to you in days, and I can keep him a few days to accommodate on that
+point.  I have not heard of my son's reaching you.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 24, 1865
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+Please inquire and report to me whether there is any propriety of
+longer keeping in Gratiott Street Prison a man said to be there by
+the name of Riley Whiting.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, February 25, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Virginia:
+
+General Sheridan's despatch to you, of to-day, in which he says he
+"will be off on Monday," and that he "will leave behind about two
+thousand men," causes the Secretary of War and myself considerable
+anxiety.   Have you well considered whether you do not again leave
+open the Shenandoah Valley entrance to Maryland and Pennsylvania, or,
+at least, to the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., February 27, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Virginia:
+
+Subsequent reflection, conference with General Halleck, your
+despatch, and one from General Sheridan, have relieved my anxiety;
+and so I beg that you will dismiss any concern you may have on my
+account, in the matter of my last despatch.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO T. W. CONWAY.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 1, 1865.
+
+MR. THOMAS W. CONWAY,
+General Superintendent Freedmen,
+Department of the Gulf.
+
+SIR:--Your statement to Major-General Hurlbut of the condition of the
+freedmen of your department, and of your success in the work of their
+moral and physical elevation, has reached me and given me much
+pleasure.
+
+That we shall be entirely successful in our efforts I firmly believe.
+
+The blessing of God and the efforts of good and faithful men will
+bring us an earlier and happier consummation than the most sanguine
+friends of the freedmen could reasonably expect.
+
+Yours,
+
+A. LINCOLN,
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 2, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+
+You have not sent contents of Richmond papers for Tuesday or
+Wednesday.  Did you not receive them? If not, does it indicate
+anything?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM FROM SECRETARY STANTON
+TO GENERAL GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, March 3, 1865.  12 PM.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+The President directs me to say to you that he wishes you to have no
+conference with General Lee unless it be for the capitulation of
+General Lee's army, or on some minor and purely military matter.  He
+instructs me to say that you are not to decide, discuss, or confer
+upon any political question.  Such questions the President holds in
+his own hands, and will submit them to no military conferences or
+conventions.  Meantime you are to press to the utmost your military
+advantages.
+
+EDWIN M. STANTON,  Secretary of War.
+
+
+SECOND INAUGURAL ADDRESS,
+
+MARCH 4, 1865.
+
+
+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.
+
+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 saving the Union
+without war, insurgent agents were in the city seeking to destroy it
+without war seeking to dissolve the Union and divide effects by
+negotiation.  Both parties deprecated war, but one of them would make
+war rather than let the nation survive, and the other would accept
+war rather than let it perish, and the war came.
+
+One eighth of the whole population was 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 cause 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."
+
+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.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL JOHN POPE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 7, 1865
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St.  Louis, Missouri:
+
+Please state briefly, by telegraph, what you concluded about the
+assessments in St.  Louis County.  Early in the war one Samuel B.
+Churchill was sent from St.  Louis to Louisville, where I have quite
+satisfactory evidence that he has not misbehaved.  Still I am told
+his property at St.  Louis is subjected to the assessment, which I
+think it ought not to be.  Still I wish to know what you think.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 8, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va:
+
+Your two despatches to the Secretary of War, one relating to supplies
+for the enemy going by the Blackwater, and the other to General
+Singleton and Judge Hughes, have been laid before me by him.  As to
+Singleton and Hughes, I think they are not in Richmond by any
+authority, unless it be from you.  I remember nothing from me which
+could aid them in getting there, except a letter to you, as follows,
+to wit:
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON CITY, February 7, 1865.
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, City Point, Va.:
+General Singleton, who bears you this, claims that he already has
+arrangements made, if you consent, to bring a large amount of
+Southern produce through your lines.  For its bearing on our
+finances, I would be glad for this to be done, if it can be, without
+injuriously disturbing your military operations, or supplying the
+enemy.  I wish you to be judge and master on these points.  Please
+see and hear him fully, and decide whether anything, and, if
+anything, what, can be done in the premises.
+Yours truly,
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+I believe I gave Hughes a card putting him with Singleton on the same
+letter.  However this may be, I now authorize you to get Singleton
+and Hughes away from Richmond, if you choose, and can.  I also
+authorize you, by an order, or in what form you choose, to suspend
+all operations on the Treasury trade permits, in all places
+southeastward of the Alleghenies.  If you make such order, notify me
+of it, giving a copy, so that I can give corresponding direction to
+the Navy.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OFFERING PARDON TO DESERTERS,
+
+MARCH 11, 1865
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
+OF AMERICA
+
+A Proclamation
+
+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 citizenship and their
+right 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 they are 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:
+
+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 or companies or to such other organization 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.
+
+In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed...............
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO H. T. BLOW.
+
+WASHINGTON, March 13, 1865.
+
+HON. HENRY T. BLOW, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+A Miss E. Snodgrass, who was banished from Saint Louis in May,1863,
+wishes to take the oath and return home. What say you?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LETTER TO THURLOW WEED,
+
+MARCH 15, 1865.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, D. C.
+
+DEAR Mr. WEED:
+
+Every one likes a compliment.  Thank you for yours on my little
+notification speech and on the recent inaugural address.  I expect
+the latter to wear as well as perhaps better than--anything I have
+produced; but I believe it is not immediately popular.  Men are not
+flattered by being shown that there has been a difference of purpose
+between the Almighty and them.  To deny it, however, in this case, is
+to deny that there is a God governing the world.  It is a truth which
+I thought needed to be told, and, as whatever of humiliation there is
+in it falls most directly on myself, I thought others might afford
+for me to tell it.
+
+Truly yours,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO COLONEL ROUGH AND OTHERS.
+
+WAR DEPARTMENT,
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 17, 1865.
+
+COL. R. M. ROUGH AND OTHERS, Chicago, Ill.:
+
+Yours received. The best I can do with it is, to refer it to the War
+Department.  The Rock Island case referred to, was my individual
+enterprise; and it caused so much difficulty in so many ways that I
+promised to never undertake another.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ADDRESS TO AN INDIANA REGIMENT,
+
+MARCH 17, 1865.
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS:--It will be but a very few words that I shall
+undertake to say.  I was born in Kentucky, raised in Indiana, and
+lived in Illinois; and now I am here, where it is my business to care
+equally for the good people of all the States.  I am glad to see an
+Indiana regiment on this day able to present the captured flag to the
+Governor of Indiana.   I am not disposed, in saying this, to make a
+distinction between the States, for all have done equally well.
+
+There are but few views or aspects of this great war upon which I
+have not said or written something whereby my own opinions might be
+known.  But there is one--the recent attempt of our erring brethren,
+as they are sometimes called, to employ the negro to fight for them.
+I have neither written nor made a speech on that subject, because
+that was their business, not mine, and if I had a wish on the
+subject, I had not the power to introduce it, or make it effective.
+The great question with them was whether the negro, being put into
+the army, will fight for them.  I do not know, and therefore cannot
+decide.  They ought to know better than me.  I have in my lifetime
+heard many arguments why the negroes ought to be slaves; but if they
+fight for those who would keep them in slavery, it will be a better
+argument than any I have yet heard.  He who will fight for that,
+ought to be a slave.  They have concluded, at last, to take one out
+of four of the slaves and put them in the army, and that one out of
+the four who will fight to keep the others in slavery, ought to be a
+slave himself, unless he is killed in a fight.   While I have often
+said that all men ought to be free, yet would I allow those colored
+persons to be slaves who want to be, and next to them those white
+people who argue in favor of making other people slaves.   I am in
+favor of giving an appointment to such white men to try it on for
+these slaves.  I will say one thing in regard to the negroes being
+employed to fight for them.  I do know he cannot fight and stay at
+home and make bread too.   And as one is about as important as the
+other to them, I don't care which they do.  I am rather in favor of
+having them try them as soldiers.  They lack one vote of doing that,
+and I wish I could send my vote over the river so that I might cast
+it in favor of allowing the negro to fight.  But they cannot fight
+and work both.  We must now see the bottom of the enemy's resources.
+They will stand out as long as they can, and if  the negro will fight
+for them they must allow him to fight.  They have drawn upon their
+last branch of resources, and we can now see the bottom.  I am glad
+to see the end so near at hand.  I have said now more than I
+intended, and will therefore bid you good-by.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CONCERNING INDIANS,
+
+MARCH 17, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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;
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, arid caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed...................
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+ORDER ANNULLING THE SENTENCE AGAINST
+BENJAMIN G. SMITH AND FRANKLIN W. SMITH,
+
+MARCH 18, 1865.
+
+
+I am unwilling for the sentence to stand, and be executed, to any
+extent in this case.  In the absence of a more adequate motive than
+the evidence discloses, I am wholly unable to believe in the
+existence of criminal or fraudulent intent on the part of men of such
+well established good character.  If the evidence went as far to
+establish a guilty profit of one or two hundred thousand dollars, as
+it does of one or two hundred dollars, the case would, on the
+question of guilt, bear a far different aspect.  That on this
+contract, involving some twelve hundred thousand dollars, the
+contractors would plan, and attempt to execute a fraud which, at the
+most, could profit them only one or two hundred, or even one thousand
+dollars, is to my mind beyond the power of rational belief.  That
+they did not, in such a case, make far greater gains, proves that
+they did not, with guilty or fraudulent intent, make at all.  The
+judgment and sentence are disapproved, and declared null, and the
+defendants are fully discharged.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+March 18, 1865.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL J. POPE.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, March 19, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL POPE, St. Louis, Missouri:
+
+Understanding that the plan of action for Missouri contained in your
+letter to the Governor of that State, and your other letter to me, is
+concurred in by the Governor, it is approved by me, and you will be
+sustained in proceeding upon it.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL ORD.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, May [March] 20, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ORD, Army of the James
+
+Is it true that George W. Lane is detained at Norfolk without any
+charge against him?  And if so why is it done?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO JUDGE SCATES.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+
+WASHINGTON, March 21, 1865.
+
+HON. WALTER B. SCATES, Centralia, Illinois:
+
+If you choose to go to New Mexico and reside, I will appoint you
+chief justice there. What say you? Please answer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL W. S. HANCOCK.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., March 22, 1865.
+MAJOR-GENERAL HANCOCK, Winchester, Va.:
+
+Seeing your despatch about General Crook, and fearing that through
+misapprehension something unpleasant may occur, I send you below two
+despatches of General Grant, which I suppose will fully explain
+General Crook's movements.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+ANOTHER FEMALE SPY
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL DODGE.
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, March 23, 1865.
+
+GENERAL DODGE,
+Commanding, &c, Saint Louis, Mo.:
+
+Allow Mrs. R. S. Ewell the benefit of my amnesty proclamation on her
+taking the oath.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, March 25, 1865.  8.30 A.M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D. C.:
+
+Arrived here all safe about 9 P.M. yesterday.   No war news.  General
+Grant does not seem to know very much about Yeatman, but thinks very
+well of him so far as he does know.
+
+I like Mr. Whiting very much, and hence would wish him to remain or
+resign as best suits himself.  Hearing this much from me, do as you
+think best in the matter.  General Lee has sent the Russell letter
+back, concluding, as I understand from Grant, that their dignity does
+not admit of their receiving the document from us.  Robert just now
+tells me there was a little rumpus up the line this morning, ending
+about where it began.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+(Cipher.)
+HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
+March 25, 1865.  (Received 5 P.M.)
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+I am here within five miles of the scene of this morning's action.  I
+have nothing to add to what General Meade reports except that I have
+seen the prisoners myself and they look like there might be the
+number he states--1600.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., March 26, 1865.  (Received 11.30 A.M.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+I approve your Fort Sumter programme.  Grant don't seem to know
+Yeatman very well, but thinks very well of him so far as he knows.
+Thinks it probable that Y. is here now, for the place.  I told you
+this yesterday as well as that you should do as you think best about
+Mr. Whiting's resignation, but I suppose you did not receive the
+dispatch.  I am on the boat and have no later war news than went to
+you last night.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, March 27, 1865.3.35 P.M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D.C.:
+
+Yours inclosing Fort Sumter order received.  I think of but one
+suggestion.  I feel quite confident that Sumter fell on the 13th, and
+not on the 14th of April, as you have it.  It fell on Saturday, the
+13th; the first call for troops on our part was got up on Sunday, the
+14th, and given date and issued on Monday, the 15th.  Look up the old
+almanac and other data, and see if I am not right.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, March 28, 1865. 12 M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D.C.:
+After your explanation, I think it is little or no difference whether
+the Fort Sumter ceremony takes place on the 13th or 14th.
+
+General Sherman tells me he is well acquainted with James Yeatman,
+and that he thinks him almost the best man in the country for
+anything he will undertake.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., March 30, 1865.  7.30 P.M.
+(Received 8.30 P.M.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+I begin to feel that I ought to be at home and yet I dislike to leave
+without seeing nearer to the end of General Grant's present movement.
+He has now been out since yesterday morning and although he has not
+been diverted from his programme no considerable effort has yet been
+produced so far as we know here.  Last night at 10.15 P. M. when it
+was dark as a rainy night without a moon could be, a furious
+cannonade soon joined in by a heavy musketry fire opened near
+Petersburg and lasted about two hours.  The sound was very distinct
+here as also were the flashes of the guns up the clouds.  It seemed
+to me a great battle, but the older hands here scarcely noticed it
+and sure enough this morning it was found that very little had been
+done.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, March 31, 1865. 3 P.M.
+
+SECRETARY STANTON:
+
+At 12.30 P.M. to-day General Grant telegraphed me as follows:
+"There has been much hard fighting this morning.  The enemy drove our
+left from near Dabney's house back well toward the Boydton plank
+road.  We are now about to take the offensive at that point, and I
+hope will more than recover the lost ground."
+
+Later he telegraphed again as follows:
+"Our troops, after being driven back to the Boydton plank road,
+turned and drove the enemy in turn, and took the White Oak road,
+which we now have.  This gives us the ground occupied by the enemy
+this morning.  I will send you a rebel flag captured by our troops in
+driving the enemy back.  There have been four flags captured to-day."
+
+Judging by the two points from which General Grant telegraphs, I
+infer that he moved his headquarters about one mile since he sent the
+first of the two despatches.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+CITY POINT, April 1, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Yours to Colonel Bowers about the Secretary of War is shown to me.
+He is not here, nor have I any notice that he is coming.  I presume
+the mistake comes of the fact that the Secretary of State was here.
+He started back to Washington this morning.  I have your two
+despatches of this morning, and am anxious to hear from Sheridan.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, April 1, 1865.  12.50 P.M.
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR, Washington, D.C.:
+
+I have had two despatches from General Grant since my last to you,
+but they contain little additional, except that Sheridan also had
+pretty hot work yesterday, that infantry was sent to his support
+during the night, and that he (Grant) has not since heard from
+Sheridan.
+
+Mrs. Lincoln has started home, and I will thank you to see that our
+coachman is at the Arsenal wharf at eight o'clock to-morrow morning,
+there to wait until she arrives.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+CITY POINT, VA., April, 1865.  5.30 ?.M.
+
+HON. W. H. SEWARD, Secretary of State, Fort Monroe:
+
+Despatch just received, showing that Sheridan, aided by Warren, had,
+at 2 P.M., pushed the enemy back, so as to retake the Five Forks and
+bring his own headquarters up to J. Boisseau's.  The Five Forks were
+barricaded by the enemy and carried by Devin's division of cavalry.
+This part of the enemy seem to now be trying to work along the White
+Oak road, to join the main force in front of Grant, while Sheridan
+and Warren are pressing them as closely as possible.
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U.S. GRANT.
+CITY POINT, April 1, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Yours showing Sheridan's success of to-day is just received and
+highly appreciated.  Having no great deal to do here, I am still
+sending the substance of your despatches to the Secretary of War.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MRS. LINCOLN.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 2, 1865.  8.30 A.M. (Received 9 A.M.)
+
+MRS. A. LINCOLN, Executive Mansion:
+
+Last night General Grant telegraphed that General Sheridan with his
+cavalry and the Fifth Corps had captured three brigades of infantry,
+a train of wagons, and several batteries, prisoners amounting to
+several thousand.  This morning General Grant having ordered an
+attack along the whole line telegraphs as follows.
+
+Robert yesterday wrote a little cheerful note to Captain Penrose,
+which is all he has heard of him since you left.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAMS TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 2, 1865.  8.30 A.M.
+
+HON. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+Last night General Grant telegraphed that General Sheridan, with his
+cavalry and the Fifth Corps, had captured three brigades of infantry,
+a train of wagons, and several batteries; the prisoners amounting to
+several thousand.
+
+This morning General Grant, having ordered an attack along the whole
+line, telegraphs as follows:
+
+"Both Wright and Parke got through the enemy's lines.  The battle now
+rages furiously.  General Sheridan, with his cavalry, the Fifth
+corps, and Miles's Division of the Second Corps, which was sent to
+him this morning, is now sweeping down from the west.
+
+"All now looks highly favorable.  General Ord is engaged, but I have
+not yet heard the result in his front."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+CITY POINT, April 1.  11.00 A.M.
+
+Despatches are frequently coming in.  All is going on finely.
+Generals Parke, Wright, and Ord's lines are extending from the
+Appomattox to Hatcher's Run.  They have all broken through the
+enemy's intrenched lines, taking some forts, guns, and prisoners.
+Sheridan, with his own cavalry, the Fifth Corps, and part of the
+Second, is coming in from the west on the enemy's flank.  Wright is
+already tearing up the Southside Railroad.
+
+A. LINCOLN
+
+
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 2.  2 P.M.
+
+At 10.45 A.M. General Grant telegraphs as follows:
+
+"Everything has been carried from the left of the Ninth Corps.  The
+Sixth Corps alone captured more than three thousand prisoners.  The
+Second and Twenty-fourth Corps captured forts, guns, and prisoners
+from the enemy, but I cannot tell the numbers.  We are now closing
+around the works of the line immediately enveloping Petersburg.  All
+looks remarkably well.  I have not yet heard from Sheridan.  His
+headquarters have been moved up to Banks's house, near the Boydton
+road, about three miles southwest of Petersburg."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 2.  8.30 P.M.
+
+At 4.30 P.M. to-day General Grant telegraphs as follows:
+
+"We are now up and have a continuous line of troops, and in a few
+hours will be intrenched from the Appomattox below Petersburg to the
+river above.  The whole captures since the army started out will not
+amount to less than twelve thousand men, and probably fifty pieces of
+artillery.  I do not know the number of men and guns accurately,
+however.  A portion of Foster's Division, Twenty Fourth Corps, made a
+most gallant charge this afternoon, and captured a very important
+fort from the enemy, with its entire garrison.  All seems well with
+us, and everything is quiet just now."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO MRS. LINCOLN.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 1, 1865.
+
+MRS. LINCOLN:
+
+At 4.30 P.M. to-day General Grant telegraphs that he has Petersburg
+completely enveloped from river below to river above, and has
+captured, since he started last Wednesday, about twelve thousand
+prisoners and fifty guns.  He suggests that I shall go out and see
+him in the morning, which I think I will do.  Tad and I are both
+well, and will be glad to see you and your party here at the time you
+name.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+CITY POINT, April 2, 1865
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Allow me to tender to you and all with you the nation's grateful
+thanks for this additional and magnificent success.  At your kind
+suggestion I think I will meet you to-morrow.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VIRGINIA, April 3, 1865.8.30 A.M.
+
+HON. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+This morning Lieutenant-General Grant reports Petersburg evacuated,
+and he is confident that Richmond also is.   He is pushing forward to
+cut off, if possible, the retreating rebel army.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 3, 1865.  5 P.M.
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+Yours received.  Thanks for your caution, but I have already been to
+Petersburg.  Staid with General Grant an hour and a half and returned
+here.  It is certain now that Richmond is in our hands, and I think I
+will go there to-morrow.  I will take care of myself.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 4, 1865
+(Received 8.45 A.M.)
+
+HON. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War:
+
+General Weitzel telegraphs from Richmond that of railroad stock he
+found there twenty-eight locomotives, forty-four passenger and
+baggage cars, and one hundred and six freight cars.  At 3.30 this
+evening General Grant, from Sutherland's Station, ten miles from
+Petersburg toward Burkevllle, telegraphs as follows:
+
+"General Sheridan picked up twelve hundred prisoners to-day, and from
+three hundred to five hundred more have been gathered by other
+troops.  The majority of the arms that were left in the hands of the
+remnant of Lee's army are now scattered between Richmond and where
+his troops are.  The country is also full of stragglers; the line of
+retreat marked with artillery, ammunition, burned or charred wagons,
+caissons, ambulances, etc."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY SEWARD.
+CITY POINT, APRIL 5, 1865.
+(Received 11.55 PM.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF STATE:
+
+Yours of to-day received.  I think there is no probability of my
+remaining here more than two days longer.  If that is too long come
+down.  I passed last night at Richmond and have just returned.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES,
+CITY POINT, April 6, 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT, in the Field:
+
+Secretary Seward was thrown from his carriage yesterday and seriously
+injured.  This, with other matters, will take me to Washington soon.
+I was at Richmond yesterday and the day before, when and where Judge
+Campbell, who was with Messrs.  Hunter and Stephens in February,
+called on me, and made such representations as induced me to put in
+his hands an informal paper, repeating the propositions in my letter
+of instructions to Mr. Seward, which you remember, and adding that if
+the war be now further persisted in by the rebels, confiscated
+property shall at the least bear the additional cost, and that
+confiscation shall be remitted to the people of any State which will
+now promptly and in good faith withdraw its troops and other support
+from resistance to the Government.
+
+Judge Campbell thought it not impossible that the rebel legislature
+of Virginia would do the latter if permitted; and accordingly I
+addressed a private letter to General Weitzel, with permission to
+Judge Campbell to see it, telling him (General Weitzel) that if they
+attempt this, to permit and protect them, unless they attempt
+something hostile to the United States, in which case to give them
+notice and time to leave, and to arrest any remaining after such
+time.
+
+I do not think it very probable that anything win come of this, but I
+have thought best to notify you so that if you should see signs you
+may understand them.
+
+From your recent despatches it seems that you are pretty effectually
+withdrawing the Virginia troops from opposition to the Government.
+Nothing that I have done, or probably shall do, is to delay, hinder,
+or interfere with your work.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. WEITZEL.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES
+CITY POINT, April 6, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL WEITZEL, Richmond, Va.:
+
+It has been intimated to me that the gentlemen who have acted as the
+legislature of Virginia in support of the rebellion may now desire to
+assemble at Richmond and take measures to withdraw the Virginia
+troops and other support from resistance to the General Government.
+If they attempt it, give them permission and protection, until, if at
+all, they attempt some action hostile to the United States, in which
+case you will notify them, give them reasonable time to leave, and at
+the end of which time arrest any who remain.  Allow Judge Campbell to
+see this, but do not make it public.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+CITY POINT, VA., April 7, 1865
+(Received 10.30 AM.)
+
+HON. SECRETARY OF WAR:
+
+At  11.15 P.M. yesterday at Burkesville Station, General Grant sends
+me the following from General Sheridan:
+
+"April 6,  11.15 P.M.
+"LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+I have the honor to report that the enemy made a stand at the
+intersection of the Burks Station road with the road upon which they
+were retreating.  I attacked them with two divisions of the Sixth
+Army Corps and routed them handsomely, making a connection with the
+cavalry.  I am still pressing on with both cavalry and infantry.  Up
+to the present time we have captured Generals Ewell, Kershaw, Button,
+Corse, DeBare, and Custis Lee, several thousand prisoners, fourteen
+pieces of artillery with caissons and a large number of wagons.   If
+the thing is pressed I think Lee will surrender.
+"P. H. SHERIDAN,
+"Major-General, Commanding."
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL U. S. GRANT.
+HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES,
+
+CITY POINT, April 7, 11 A.M., 1865.
+
+LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GRANT:
+
+Gen.  Sheridan says:
+
+"If the thing is pressed I think that Lee will surrender."
+
+Let the thing be pressed.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+NOTE ON A CARD TO SECRETARY STANTON.
+
+April 10, 1865.
+
+Tad wants some flags--can he be accommodated?
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+RESPONSE TO A CALL,
+
+APRIL 10, 1865
+
+If the company had assembled by appointment, some mistake had crept
+in their understanding.  He had appeared before a larger audience
+than this one to-day, and he would repeat what he then said, namely,
+he supposed owing to the great, good news, there would be some
+demonstration.  He would prefer to-morrow evening, when he should be
+quite willing, and he hoped ready, to say something.  He desired to
+be particular, because every thing he said got into print.  Occupying
+the position he did, a mistake would produce harm, and therefore he
+wanted to be careful not to make a mistake.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. H. GORDON.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION,
+WASHINGTON, April 11, 1865.
+
+BRIG. GEN. G. H. GORDON, Norfolk, Va.:
+
+Send to me at once a full statement as to the cause or causes for
+which, and by authority of what tribunal George W. Lane, Charles
+Whitlock, Ezra Baler, J. M. Renshaw, and others are restrained of
+their liberty. Do this promptly and fully.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CLOSING CERTAIN PORTS,
+APRIL 11, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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
+
+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
+
+Whereas by the fourth 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," the
+President, for the reasons therein set forth, is authorized to close
+certain ports of entry:
+
+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 (Shieldsboro), 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 parts 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.
+
+In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of
+the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this eleventh day of April, A.D.,
+1865, and of the independence of the United States of America, the
+eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION OPENING THE PORT OF KEY WEST,
+
+APRIL 11, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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:
+
+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.
+
+In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed.
+
+Done at the city of Washington, this eleventh day of April, A.D.
+1865, and of the independence of the United States of America the
+eighty-ninth.
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+PROCLAMATION CLAIMING EQUALITY OF RIGHTS
+WITH ALL MARITIME NATIONS,
+
+APRIL 11, 1865.
+
+BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
+
+A Proclamation.
+
+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 community 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.......
+
+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.
+
+In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal
+of the United States to be affixed..................
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+By the President:
+WILLIAM H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
+
+
+
+
+LAST PUBLIC ADDRESS,
+
+APRIL 11, 1865
+
+FELLOW-CITIZENS--We meet this evening not in sorrow, but in gladness
+of heart.  The evacuation of Petersburg and Richmond, and the
+surrender of the principal insurgent army, give hope of a righteous
+and speedy peace, whose joyous expression cannot be restrained.  In
+the midst of this, however, He from whom  blessings flow must not be
+forgotten.
+
+A call for a national thanksgiving is being prepared, and will be
+duly promulgated.  Nor must those whose harder part gives us the
+cause of rejoicing be overlooked.  Their honors must not be parceled
+out with others.  I myself was near the front, and had the pleasure
+of transmitting much of the good news to you.  But no part of the
+honor for plan or execution is mine.  To General Grant, his skillful
+officers, and brave men, all belongs.  The gallant navy stood ready,
+but was not in reach to take active part.  By these recent successes,
+the reinauguration of the national authority--reconstruction  which
+has had a large share of thought from the first, is pressed much more
+closely upon our attention.  It is fraught with great difficulty.
+Unlike a case of war between independent nations, there is no
+authorized organ for us to treat with--no one man has authority to
+give up the rebellion for any other man.  We simply must begin with
+and mould from disorganized and discordant elements.  Nor is it a
+small additional embarrassment that we, the loyal people, differ
+among ourselves as to the mode, manner, and measure of
+reconstruction.  As a general rule, I abstain from reading the
+reports of attacks upon myself, Wishing not to be provoked by that to
+which I cannot properly offer an answer.  In spite of this
+precaution, however, it comes to my knowledge that I am much censured
+for some supposed agency in setting up and seeking to sustain the new
+State government of Louisiana.   In this I have done just so much and
+no more than the public knows.  In the Annual Message of December,
+1863, and the accompanying proclamation, I presented a plan of
+reconstruction, as the phrase goes, which I promised, if adopted by
+any State, would be acceptable to and sustained by the Executive
+Government of the nation.  I distinctly stated that this was not the
+only plan that might possibly be acceptable, and I also distinctly
+protested that the Executive claimed no right to say when or whether
+members should be admitted to seats in Congress from such States.
+This plan was in advance submitted to the then Cabinet, and approved
+by every member of it.  One of them suggested that I should then and
+in that connection apply the Emancipation Proclamation to the
+theretofore excepted parts of Virginia and Louisiana; that I should
+drop the suggestion about apprenticeship for freed people, and that I
+should omit the protest against my own power in regard to the
+admission of members of Congress.  But even he approved every part
+and parcel of the plan which has since been employed or touched by
+the action of Louisiana.   The new constitution of Louisiana,
+declaring emancipation for the whole State, practically applies the
+proclamation to the part previously excepted.  It does not adopt
+apprenticeship for freed people, and is silent, as it could not well
+be otherwise, about the admission of members to Congress.  So that,
+as it applied to Louisiana, every member of the Cabinet fully
+approved the plan.  The message went to Congress, and I received many
+commendations of the plan, written and verbal, and not a single
+objection to it from any professed emancipationist came to my
+knowledge until after the news reached Washington that the people of
+Louisiana had begun to move in accordance with it.  From about July,
+1862, I had corresponded with different persons supposed to be
+interested in seeking a reconstruction of a State government for
+Louisiana.  When the message of 1863, with the plan before mentioned,
+reached New Orleans, General Banks wrote me that he was confident
+that the people, with his military co-operation, would reconstruct
+substantially on that plan.  I wrote to him and some of them to try
+it.  They tried it, and the result is known.  Such has been my only
+agency in getting up the Louisiana government.  As to sustaining it
+my promise is out, as before stated.  But, as bad promises are better
+broken than kept, I shall treat this as a bad promise and break it,
+whenever I shall be convinced that keeping it is adverse to the
+public interest; but I have not yet been so convinced.  I have been
+shown a letter on this subject, supposed to be an able one, in which
+the writer expresses regret that my mind has not seemed to be
+definitely fixed upon the question whether the seceded States, so
+called, are in the Union or out of it.  It would perhaps add
+astonishment to his regret were he to learn that since I have found
+professed Union men endeavoring to answer that question, I have
+purposely forborne any public expression upon it.  As appears to me,
+that question has not been nor yet is a practically material one, and
+that any discussion of it, while it thus remains practically
+immaterial, could have no effect other than the mischievous one of
+dividing our friends.  As yet, whatever it may become, that question
+is bad as the basis of a controversy, and good for nothing at all--a
+merely pernicious abstraction.  We all agree that the seceded States,
+so called, are out of their proper practical relation with the Union,
+and that the sole object of the Government, civil and military, in
+regard to those States, is to again get them into their proper
+practical relation.  I believe that it is not only possible, but in
+fact easier, to do this without deciding or even considering whether
+those States have ever been out of the Union, than with it.  Finding
+themselves safely at home, it would be utterly immaterial whether
+they had been abroad.  Let us all join in doing the acts necessary to
+restore the proper practical relations between these States and the
+Union, and each forever after innocently indulge his own opinion
+whether, in doing the acts he brought the States from without into
+the Union, or only gave them proper assistance, they never having
+been out of it.  The amount of constituency, so to speak, on which
+the Louisiana government rests, would be more satisfactory to all if
+it contained fifty thousand, or thirty thousand, or even twenty
+thousand, instead of twelve thousand, as it does.  It is also
+unsatisfactory to some that the elective franchise is not given to
+the colored man.  I would myself prefer that it were now conferred on
+the very intelligent, and on those who serve our cause as soldiers.
+Still, the question is not whether the Louisiana government, as it
+stands, is quite all that is desirable.  The question is, Will it be
+wiser to take it as it is and help to improve it, or to reject and
+disperse?  Can Louisiana be brought into proper practical relation
+with the Union sooner by sustaining or by discarding her new State
+government? Some twelve thousand voters in the heretofore Slave State
+of Louisiana have sworn allegiance to the Union, assumed to be the
+rightful political power of the State, held elections, organized a
+State government, adopted a Free State constitution, giving the
+benefit of public schools equally to black and white, and empowering
+the Legislature to confer the elective franchise upon the colored
+man.  This Legislature has already voted to ratify the Constitutional
+Amendment recently passed by Congress, abolishing slavery throughout
+the nation.  These twelve thousand persons are thus fully committed
+to the Union and to perpetuate freedom in the State--committed to the
+very things, and nearly all things, the nation wants--and they ask
+the nation's recognition and its assistance to make good this
+committal.  Now, if we reject and spurn them, we do our utmost to
+disorganize and disperse them.   We, in fact, say to the white man:
+You are worthless or worse; we will neither help you nor be helped by
+you.  To the blacks we say:  This cup of liberty which these, your
+old masters, held to your lips, we will dash from you, and leave you
+to the chances of gathering the spilled and scattered contents in
+some vague and undefined when, where, and how.  If this course,
+discouraging and paralyzing both white and black, has any tendency to
+bring Louisiana into proper practical relations with the Union, I
+have so far been unable to perceive it.  If, on the contrary, we
+recognize and sustain the new government of Louisiana, the converse
+of all this is made true.  We encourage the hearts and nerve the arms
+of twelve thousand to adhere to their work, and argue for it, and
+proselyte for it, and fight for it, and feed it, and grow it, and
+ripen it to a complete success.  The colored man, too, in seeing all
+united for him, is inspired with vigilance, and energy, and daring to
+the same end.  Grant that he desires the elective franchise, will he
+not attain it sooner by saving the already advanced steps towards it,
+than by running backward over them? Concede that the new government
+of Louisiana is only to what it should be as the egg is to the fowl,
+we shall sooner have the fowl by hatching the egg than by smashing
+it.  Again, if we reject Louisiana, we also reject one vote in favor
+of the proposed amendment to the National Constitution.   To meet
+this proposition, it has been argued that no more than three fourths
+of those States which have not attempted secession are necessary to
+validly ratify the amendment.  I do not commit myself against this,
+further than to say that such a ratification would be questionable,
+and sure to be persistently questioned, while a ratification by three
+fourths of all the States would be unquestioned and unquestionable.
+I repeat the question, Can Louisiana be brought into proper practical
+relation with the Union sooner by sustaining or by discarding her new
+State government?  What has been said of Louisiana will apply to
+other States.  And yet so great peculiarities pertain to each State,
+and such important and sudden changes occur in the same State, and
+withal so new and unprecedented is the whole case, that no exclusive
+and inflexible plan can safely be prescribed as to details and
+collaterals.  Such exclusive and inflexible plan would surely become
+a new entanglement.  Important principles may and must be inflexible.
+In the present situation as the phrase goes, it may be my duty to
+make some new announcement to the people of the South.  I am
+considering, and shall not fail to act, when satisfied that action
+will be proper.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. WEITZEL.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., April 12, 1865.
+MAJOR-GENERAL WEITZEL, Richmond, Va.:
+
+I have seen your despatch to Colonel Hardie about the matter of
+prayers. I do not remember hearing prayers spoken of while I was in
+Richmond; but I have no doubt you have acted in what appeared to you
+to be the spirit and temper manifested by me while there.  Is there
+any sign of the rebel legislature coming together on the
+understanding of my letter to you?  If there is any such sign, inform
+me what it is; if there is no such sign, you may withdraw the offer.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. WEITZEL.
+WASHINGTON, D.C., April 12, 1865.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL WEITZEL, Richmond, Va.:
+
+I have just seen Judge Campbell's letter to you of the 7th.  He
+assumes, as appears to me, that I have called the insurgent
+legislature of Virginia together, as the rightful legislature of the
+State, to settle all differences with the United States.  I have done
+no such thing.  I spoke of them, not as a legislature, but as "the
+gentlemen who have acted as the legislature of Virginia in support of
+the rebellion."  I did this on purpose to exclude the assumption that
+I was recognizing them as a rightful body.  I deal with them as men
+having power de facto to do a specific thing, to wit: "To withdraw
+the Virginia troops and other support from resistance to the General
+Government," for which, in the paper handed Judge Campbell, I
+promised a specific equivalent, to wit: a remission to the people of
+the State, except in certain cases, of the confiscation of their
+property.  I meant this, and no more.  Inasmuch, however, as Judge
+Campbell misconstrues this, and is still pressing for an armistice,
+contrary to the explicit statement of the paper I gave him, and
+particularly as General Grant has since captured the Virginia troops,
+so that giving a consideration for their withdrawal is no longer
+applicable, let my letter to you and the paper to Judge Campbell both
+be withdrawn, or countermanded, and he be notified of it.  Do not now
+allow them to assemble, but if any have come, allow them safe return
+to their homes.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+INTERVIEW WITH SCHUYLER COLFAX ON THE MORNING OF APRIL 14, 1865.
+
+Mr. Colfax, I want you to take a message from me to the miners whom
+you visit.  I have very large ideas of the mineral wealth of our
+nation.  I believe it practically inexhaustible.  It abounds all over
+the Western country, from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific, and its
+development has scarcely commenced.  During the war, when we were
+adding a couple of millions of dollars every day to our national
+debt, I did not care about encouraging the increase in the volume of
+our precious metals.  We had the country to save first.  But now that
+the rebellion is overthrown, and we know pretty nearly the amount of
+our national debt, the more gold and silver we mine, we make the
+payment of that debt so much the easier.  "Now," said he, speaking
+with more emphasis, "I am going to encourage that in every possible
+way.  We shall have hundreds of thousands of disbanded soldiers, and
+many have feared that their return home in such great numbers might
+paralyze industry, by furnishing, suddenly, a greater supply of labor
+than there will be demand for.  I am going to try to attract them to
+the hidden wealth of our mountain ranges, where there is room enough
+for all.  Immigration, which even the war has not stopped, will land
+upon our shores hundreds of thousands more per year from overcrowded
+Europe.  I intend to point them to the gold and silver that wait for
+them in the West.  Tell the miners for me, that I shall promote their
+interests to the utmost of my ability; because their prosperity is
+the prosperity of the nation; and," said he, his eye kindling with
+enthusiasm, "we shall prove, in a very few years, that we are indeed
+the treasury of the world."
+
+
+
+
+TO GENERAL VAN ALLEN.
+
+EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON,
+April 14, 1865
+
+GENERAL VAN ALLEN:
+
+I intend to adopt the advice of my friends and use due precaution....
+I thank you for the assurance you give me that I shall be
+supported by conservative men like yourself, in the efforts I may
+make to restore the Union, so as to make it, to use your language, a
+Union of hearts and hands as well as of States.
+
+Yours truly,
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+
+
+
+
+LINCOLN'S LAST WRITTEN WORDS
+
+Allow Mr. Ashmer and friend to come in at 9 A.M. to-morrow.
+
+A. LINCOLN.
+April 14, 1865
+
+
+
+
+End of this Project Gutenberg Etext of The Writings of Lincoln, v7
+by Abraham Lincoln
+
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