Abraham Lincoln Papers at the Library of Congress. Transcribed and Annotated by the Lincoln Studies Center, Knox College. Galesburg, Illinois.

From Francis H. Peirpoint to Abraham Lincoln, March 14, 1861

Wheeling, Va., March 14th 1862

Sir: — Owing to the favorable advance of the Federal troops into Virginia, and, I think, the certainty of the rebellion being shortly put down in the State, I deem it important that I should issue a circular letter to the people of Virginia, calling upon them to co-operate with me in restoring the government of the state in accordance with the Ordinances of the Convention which assembled at Wheeling on the 11th of June 1861.

I think a general policy should be indicated in that letter, which should plainly state the class of citizens which will be protected and unmolested as to past transactions; — what will be expected of them in reorganizing the State government; and what those may look for, who have been, and are still engaged in guerrilla warfare. While there might be some clemency extended to ignorant men thus engaged, in the past; yet if they continue or others embark in it, they will be ranked, with their leaders, as Murderes, and treated accordingly; nor would I hold out terms to those civilians, or Military men, who have gone into the Army, or into Congressional, Conventional or Legislative Councils of rebels against the United States.

Whatever course may, finally, be adopted as to the leaders, I think it would be bad policy to encourage them with the hope of pardon at the present. Let them flee the State, and in their absence, the State can be organized and in a condition to sustain itself against their advice, if they should hereafter be permitted to return. I have found in the Counties that have been reorganized, that wherever a rebel office holder has taken the oath, he has given trouble.

Some declaration should be made in regard to slaves. My impression is, that protection to slave property should be made to depend on the co-operation of its owners in restoring the Government.

I have merely indicated my views in regard to the letter. My object is, in no-wise, to come in contact with the Federal or Military authority. I desire to act in harmony, and have the letter circulated by the Army as fast as it advances.

I ask your early attention to the subject, and any suggestions you may be pleased to make, will be cheerfully acquiesced in1

1 Lincoln instructed Peirpoint to draft his proclamation carefully and asked to see it before it was issued. See Collected Works, V, 166.

I am,

Very Respectfully,

Your obdt servt.

F. H. Peirpoint

From Gideon Welles to Edwin M. Stanton, March 14, 1862

Navy Department,

March 14, 1862

Sir:

Yours enclosing the despatch of Major General McClellan suggesting that the Secretary of the Navy be requested “to order to Fort Monroe whatever force DuPont1 can now spare, as well as any available force that Goldsborough2 can send up as soon as his present operations are completed,” has been received.

1 ID: Samuel F. DuPont, a grandson of Du Pont de Nemours, spent nearly a half century in the U. S. Navy. In September 1861 DuPont was made commander of the South Atlantic blockading squadron and commanded the naval forces in the expedition to Port Royal, South Carolina. In 1862 DuPont was promoted to rear admiral. After his fleet failed to take Charleston on April 7, 1863, DuPont was relieved of his command and he spent the remainder of the war in retirement.

2 ID: Louis M. Goldsborough, a career navy officer, was given command of the North Atlantic blockading squadron in September 1861. Goldsborough commanded the fleet that accompanied General Burnside's expedition to North Carolina in early 1862 and supported McClellan during the Peninsula Campaign. Goldsborough was criticized for his ineffectiveness and he requested to be relieved of his command in September 1862. Goldsborough spent the remainder of the war as an administrator and retired from the navy in 1873.

If a movement is to be made upon Norfolk, always a favorable measure of this Department, instant measures will be taken to advise and strengthen Flag Officer Goldsborough, but unless such be the case I should be extremely reluctant to take any measure that would ever temporarily weaken the efficiency of the Blockade, especially at the points under the command of Flag Officer DuPont.

The importance of capturing Norfolk is, I know, deemed almost indispensable by Flag Officer Goldsborough, who will be happy to co-operate in a movement in that direction, and will, I need not assure you, have the active and earnest efforts of this Department to aid him with all the force that can be placed at his disposal.

I am respecty

Yr Obt servant

Gideon Welles

From Abraham Lincoln to William H. Seward [Copy in Nicolay's Hand]1, March 15, 1862

1 Dissatisfaction had apparently been expressed with the incumbent Honolulu commissioner, Thomas J. Dryer, who had been appointed by Lincoln at the behest of his late friend Edward Dickinson Baker. Though it appears here that Seward and Lincoln were willing to give Dryer a reprieve, he was eventually recalled and replaced by James McBride of Oregon. See Seward to Lincoln, March 5, 1862, Lincoln to Seward, March 7, 1862.

[Marginal Note: Copy from F. W. S.]2

2 Copies of Lincoln's letters to Seward were provided to John G. Nicolay by Seward's son and secretary, Frederick W. Seward.

Executive Mansion.

March 15. 1862.

My dear Sir,

I am very glad of your note saying “recent despatches from him” (Dryer at Honolulu,) “are able, judicious, and loyal” and that if I agree we will leave him there— I am glad to agree so long as the public interest does not seem to require his removal.

Yours truly—

A. Lincoln.

From Abraham Lincoln to Edwin M. Stanton [Draft]1, March 15, 1862

1 Lincoln writes here in favor of two New York entrepreneurs, Josiah Hedden and John Hoey of New York, who were ten days late in delivering a portion of a consignment of arms to the Union army. Stanton had not acted on the matter by March 19. At that time George Ashmun of Massachusetts intervened with Stanton, to learn that Stanton would accept the remainder of the delivery only on receipt of a direct order from Lincoln. When so informed Lincoln acquiesced, sending the order to Stanton. See Ashmun to Lincoln, March 19, 1862 and Collected Works, V, 165.

Executive Mansion

Washington, March 15, 1862.

My dear Sir

It is represented to me that Messrs. Hedden & Hoey had a contract with the government, closed on the 26th of October last, to deliver fifty thousand arms by the 15th of the then next January — that within within the time they delivered twenty-eight thousand which were accepted and paid for — that, not on time, but ten days after time, they were ready, and offered to deliver the remaining twenty two thousand, which were refused simply on the question of time— If this statement be true, and these men acted in good faith, I think they should not be ruined by the transaction, but that the guns should be accepted & paid for— Of course I understand the principle of strict law, would not oblige the govt to take them, even if it were an individual, Yours trulyA. Lincoln

[Endorsed by John Hay:]

The Case of Hedden and Hoey

March 15, 1862

[Endorsed by Lincoln:]

Contract for delivery of arms.

From John A. Dix to Abraham Lincoln, March 15, 1862

Head Quarters, Baltimore,

15, March 1862.

Sir:

I have had the honor to receive your kind letter of this morning and hasten to acknowledge it.1 I will only ask a moment of your attention now to two points.

1 Lincoln's letter to Dix has not been located.

1. Genl. Banks, Genl. Butler and myself, though named by you as Maj. Genls. on different days were appointed by you, and confirmed by the Senate to take rank from the 16th of May. Banks's name was placed first, mine second, and Butler's third. I raised a question of precedence between Banks and myself under the Army Regulations: it was decided in my favor by Lieut. Genl. Scott on a reference from the War Department; and was very handsomely acquiesced in by Genl. Banks, who said it was proper & just.

2. The report that I was “physically unable to remain in the saddle long enough at a time” was got up at Washington with a good many allegations of a kindred character for a specific purpose. If it had been true, I trust you will do me the justice to believe that I would myself have disclosed the fact to the government and asked a less active service. The report only came to my ears as I was leaving the City to come here, and when it was too late to trace it to its source.

Not doubting your purpose to accord at a proper time what you think due to me, desiring nothing more than is my due, and greatly gratified that you approve what I have done in Maryland,

I am very respectfully & truly,

Your obt. servt.

John A. Dix

Maj. Genl.

From Joseph C. G. Kennedy to Abraham Lincoln1, March 15, 1862

1 Kennedy was superintendent of the seventh and eighth U. S. censuses.

Washington, 15 March 1862

My dear Mr President

I have the honor to submit for perusal a copy of a letter recd by me from Ex Prest. Fillmore—2 In my opinion he utters sentiments which history will prove to be eminently just.

2 A copy of Fillmore's March 7, 1862 letter to Kennedy is in this collection.

Misapprehension and fanaticism may for a time, perhaps, becloud the real character of Gen McClellan in the opinion of many, but I have an undoubting conviction that he possesses courage, patience, prudence, and energy, is so well poised and combined, as to justify your confidence and manifest to the world your wisdom, firmness and discretion in withstanding the clamors of prejudice, the misrepresentations of envy, and the demands of ignorance. His and your reputations are, to extent, already linked together; in my opinion the eminently admirable qualities of the Chief Magistrate & his first General will increase in lustre as they are reciprocally confided in and that reproach which was heaped upon Fabius the great Roman General, in the term “cunctator” — delayer — and which is now sneeringly applied to McClellan, as it subsequently became the glory of the former, will, when history records her verdict, reflect dignity upon you and your first military officer. In my opinion, all those who are now now conscienciously deprecating his military character and aspersing his moral courage, will, before the entire restoration of harmony and peace be equally vituperative against such as may be indisposed to join in praise of him— With a pretty accurate knowledge of his past history, without prejudices or partialities induced by personal acquaintance, with no private interest to promote, having singly in view the honor of the country, jealous for your dignity, consistency & standing, now and in the future, abroad and at home — I have firm faith in the discretion, courage and moral excellence of the man, and it is my belief that these attributes are conceded him by the best military talent of the army as that he enjoys the confidence and admiration of the troops— Such I am convinced is the opinion of the great & good men of the Country, who at the present moment view with trembling apprehension the undermining efforts of his misguided enemies lest their persevering and increasing zeal may affect some impression on your judgment, confidence or discretion — conspicuous and reliable as they believe them. Defamation, detraction and clumny are often, not only noisy & boisterous, but often effective, while the influence of esteem, admiration and praise are unfelt because quiet and undemonstrative—

With these sentiments, the expression whereof I hope you will pardon — I have the honor to be with unaffected sincerity — Your Excellencys friend & humble servt

Jos. C. G. Kennedy—

From James H. Matheny to John G. Nicolay1, March 15, 1862

1 ID: James H. Matheny was an old friend and Whig political associate of Lincoln who was the best man at Lincoln's wedding. Matheny was a delegate to the 1847 constitutional convention and served as a lieutenant colonel in the 114th Illinois during the Civil War.

Springfield March 15. A D. 1862.

Sir,

You will find enclosed a Petition directed to Mr Lincoln — it is not an application for office, So dont be afraid to touch it—.2

2 The petition of Green B. Walters is in this collection.

A son of one of Mr Lincolns oldest and best Sangamon County, friends has unfortunately placed himself in a position that may be exceedingly troublesome if not dangerous to him— The Parents of the boy are very much distressed about it and have been advised to ask Mr Lincolns aid in the primises—. The facts are all Set forth in the Petition—. Upon consultation by the freinds of Mr Lincoln, yourself and of Mr Walters, the Petitioner, it was determined to Send the Paper to you as the Surest way of having it reach Mr Lincoln, and I was Selected to Send it.— By delivering it without delay, you will confer a favor upon many freinds who have Signed the Petition and will be the recipient of the blessings of a good old Father and mother—.—. The Petition is Signed by all the State Officers and many of the leading citizens of the City— Every mans name in the County could have been got but it was thought to be totally unnecessary—.

If it would not be too much trouble for you, I would be very glad, if you would write to me, after present it to Mr Lincoln and advise me as to what action he will take in the matter—.

Yours Respectfully

Jas H. Matheny—

From Henry J. Raymond to Abraham Lincoln, March 15, 1862

State of New York.

Assembly Chambers.

Albany march 15 1862

Dear Sir:—

You will have seen long before this reaches you, I presume, that the Times has published several articles in support of your special message.1 As soon as I saw the one to which you allude,2 I telegraphed to the office to sustain the message without qualification or cavil, and I believe the paper has done so since.

1 On March 6, 1862, Lincoln presented a plan for gradual, compensated emancipation to Congress.

2 Lincoln had written to Raymond on March 9 in response to a Times editorial which stated that Lincoln's plan was too expensive. A draft of this letter is in this collection.

As soon as the message reached us here I drew a resolution & caused it to be introduced into the Assembly endorsing the your recommendations. We shall pass it as soon as it can be reached.

I regard the message as a master-piece of practical wisdom and sound policy. It is marked by that plain, self-vindicating common-sense which, with the people, overbears, as it ought, all the abstract speculations of mere theorists and confounds, all the schemes of selfish intriguers, — and which, you will permit me to say, has preeminently characterized every act of your Administration. It furnishes a solid, practical, constitutional basis for the treatment of this great question, and suggests the only feasible mode I have yet seen of dealing with a problem infinitely more difficult than the suppression of the rebellion. It shall have my most cordial & hearty support.

I take the liberty of enclosing here with some remarks I have made on two or three topics of common interest.

I am, with great respect,

Your obedient servant,

Henry J. Raymond

From Green B. Walters to Abraham Lincoln, March 15, 1862

Case of Private James W Walters, alias James Williams of Company “D”. 41st Regiment Illinois Vols.

Petition

Chatham. Ills. 1862

Your Petitioner a resident of Chatham in Sangamon County, State of Illinois, respectfully prays your Excellency to honorably discharge from the Service of the United States, and from all liabilities to punishment on account of Desertion, his son James William Walters, now known by his assumed name of James Williams and belonging at the present time to Company “D” of the 41st Regiment Illinois Vols. Col. Isaac C. Pugh Comdg. And for the following reasons:—

He was enlisted at St Louis, Mo. on the 2nd Jany. 1861, by Lieut. Sweeney, Recruiting Officer USA; and was quartered at the Arsenal in that city under the command of Captain Lyons,1 but up to the time of his desertion was not assigned to any particular regiment Becoming dissatisfied and indignant at the secession proclivities of several of the Non Commissioned Officers and others in his Detachment, and fearful that his own loyalty, if not his personal safety, would be compromised by remaining with them he deserted on the 10th of March 1861 and re-enlisted at Clinton Dewitt County, Ills, in Capt Sampsons Company of Coll Colers Independent Regt of Infantry in the three months service, but the company organizing too late to be recieved, it was disbanded at Decatur Ills. He however, again reenlisted, June 28, 1861 this time for Three Years or during the War, at Clinton, Dewitt Co. Ills, under his assumed name of James Williams, in Capt Longs, Company “G” of the 41st Regiment Illinois Vols in which company he remained, until October 1st 1861, when he was transferred to Company “D” Capt. Edmund True, of the same Regiment, by consent of the commanding Officers of both companies.

1 Nathaniel Lyon

Your petitioner would inform your Excellency that at his last enlistment, viz, June 28, 1861, he enlisted under the assumed name of James Williams, for fear of being arrested on a charge of Desertion from St Louis Arsenal, as stated above. And in extenuation of his sons desertion your Petitioner would respectfully represent, that his sons loyalty has always been of that high order, that can brook no companionship with the Rebels or their sympathizers, and his determination to obey your Excellencys Call is evinced by his repeated enlistments as above stated His loyalty has been proved in various ways and manners in the reconnoisances made by General. C F. smith in whose division he is, as well as in the late Glorious Battle and Victory at Fort Donelson, in which latter engagement he was wounded in both legs. Your Petitioner has every reason to believe that if his son is now discharged from the army, and from all liabilities to punishment from deserting on the 10th of March 1861, from St Louis Arsenal and recovers from his wounds, he will gladly reenlist and serve his country faithfully under his own proper name.

And your Petitioner will ever pray &c

Green Berry Walters,

of Chatham;

Sangamon County —

Illinois.

Springfield Ills

The undersigned considering the facts set forth in the within Petition (of the truth of which we are well assured) earnestly join in the Petition that James W Walters alias James Williams of Company D 41st Ill Regt Vols be released and relieved of any liability or penalty incurred by him on account of the desertion therein set forth2

2 Lincoln pardoned Walters in November 1862. See Collected Works, V, 491.

M. Hay

S. M. Cullom

William Butler

Richd Yates

John Williams

Josiah Francis

S. S. Whitehurst

A. Johnston

O. M. Hatch

Jesse K Dubois

Stephen T. Logan

Ninian W. Edwards.

E. L. Baker

W. H. Herndon

John T. Suart

From George B. McClellan to Edwin M. Stanton, March 16, 1862

Hd Qtrs Army of Potomac

Washn March 16 1862

Sir:

In order to carry out the proposed object of this Army it has now become necessary that its commander should have the entire control of affairs around Fort Monroe. I would respectfully suggest that the simplest method of effecting this would be to merge the Dept of Virginia into that of the Potomac, the name of which might properly be changed to that of Dept of the Chesapeake; in carrying this into effect I would respectfully request that the present Comdr of the Dept Virginia1 be assigned to some other command. Genl Mansfield can take temporary charge of Fort Monroe & its dependencies until the army arrives there.

1 General Wool was the commander of the Department of Virginia and as the army's senior general, he believed he outranked McClellan. On March 18, Lincoln wrote to Stanton and requested that Wool's feelings should not be hurt in the affair. That same day Stanton telegraphed Wool that he would have to temporarily relinquish his authority in favor of McClellan. Wool was promoted to major general in May and given command of the newly created Middle Department in June. See Collected Works, V, 164 and Official Records, Series I, Volume 11 Part 3, 14.

I am very respectfully yr obd svt

Geo B McClellan

Maj Gnl USA

From John H. Bayne to Abraham Lincoln, March 17, 1862

Prince Geo. County, MD March 17, 62

By the joint action of both Branches of the Legislature of Maryland, a Committee of six members was appointed in the early part of the Session to proceed to Washington & confer with major Genl. McClellan in reference to the admission of slaves within the lines of the Army— But in consequence of the illness of the General at that time, we failed to see him— The committee were allowed the honor of an interview with the President— At a subsequent visit they had a conference with the General in Chief, before whom the Resolutions which passed the Legislature were presented for his consideration— The committee were informed before taking any action upon them, they would be transferred to the Secretary of War— We returned to Annapolis highly gratified with our courteous reception, confidently anticipating a speedy and satisfactory response— And we regret to say the Session expired without being able to make any report—

We did believe Mr. President, the political status of Maryland & her geographical position justified us in expecting the protection of all our rights guarantied under the Constitution— We certainly expected the Government would have pursued towards the people of this State the policy of non-interference with the institution of slavery— As loyal citizens in a loyal state we never expected the adoption of a policy so adverse to her interests—

It is very apparent to every Marylander unless we can obtain some interposition to protect this description of property, our agricultural interests will be utterly prostrated— Slave labor is disappearing so rapidly, that our lands must go untilled at least for the present year & the farmers will be ruined— Hundreds & I may say thousands have absconded, & they meet with such ready ingress & protection within the lines of the Army, that we shall soon be depopulated of Slavery— The fugitives find employment in various capacities, as wagoners, servants, wood-choppers &c— And if the legitimate owners pursue them, they are treated with great indignities; ejected from the camps & in come cases they are threatened with the loss of life— All these statements could be abundantly authenticated if necessary—

Mr. President I believe the proposition in your late message to Congress1 proffering co-operation with those states which desired the emancipation of slavery, has been conceived in a spirit pure philanthropy & patriotism & is calculated to produce a conciliatory and harmonizing influence— It will no doubt meet with the approbation of numerous slave owners— It certainly meets with my hearty concurrence— But sir before the adoption of that scheme if it were even practicable, the slaves will all have escaped from the limits of Maryland— And there will be none left for the benefit of slave-holders—

1 On March 6, 1862, Lincoln presented a plan for gradual, compensated emancipation to Congress.

If Mr. President this desultory note is deemed worthy of your notice; I shall feel greatly flattered—

with profound respect

I am sir, yr. obt. sert —

Jno. H. Bayne

P. O. Near Washington D. C.

From George T. Brown to Benjamin Wade, March 17, 1862

Washington March 17, 1862

To the Chm. of Joint Com

on the Conduct of the War.

Sir:— During the time I was occupied in procuring testimony in relation to Genl. Stone1, I used Col. G W B Tompkins of the 2d N. Y. Vols. and he rendered efficient service2

1 Charles P. Stone

2 On March 20, 1862, Lincoln wrote to Stanton and recommended that George W. B. Tompkins be appointed a brigadier general, but the appointment was never made. See Collected Works, V, 167 and McClellan to Stanton, March 24, 1862 in this collection.

His action became known to Genl. Stone, who had charges preferred against him, and he is now under arrest.

I think it due to Col. Tompkins & the Com. that he should be protected.

I herewith enclose two letters from Col. Tompkins

Verry Respy Geo. T. Brown

Sergt at Arms

[Marginal note: Memm Two letters alluded to within failed to reach Head Qrs Army Potomac.]

[Endorsed by Edwin M. Stanton:]

Referred to Head Quarters of Army of Potomac for immediate report—

Edwin M Stanton

[Endorsed by Benjamin S. Williams:]

Head Qrs Army Potomac

Seminary Alexandria

March 24 1862.

Respectfully returned with the report directed.

Benjamin

S. Williams

Asst Adj Genl

From Leslie Combs to Abraham Lincoln, March 18, 1862

Frankfort March 18/62

Dear Sir

I have just returned from a visit to Genl Buels grand army at Nashville — by far the best I have yet seen — and all eager for an advance movement— His regulations are so strictly enforced that I did not see a drunken officer or soldier in the city & no place where spirits were sold or given away—

While there I had a conversation with Col. Willick,1 whose regiment, you may remember, whipt the Texan Rangers on Green River; & he would like to have another chance at them— Allow me to make one suggestion on this subject— There are large German colonies & very few slaves west of the Colorado— The country is perfectly healthy. A few regiments — including Willicks — landed at Matagorda bay — could easily penetrate the State to Austin — and San Antonio & cut Texas in two parts— The whole country abounds in stock & includes the great Salt Lakes— This operation would checkmate all military movements against New Mexico & cut off the whole Rio Grande frontier from British intrigue— A fleet could be fitted out, of light draught vessels, at Annapolis or New York & sail directly to the point named— I know the Country well and you may rely on what I say—

1 ID: August Willich was a native of Prussia and veteran of the Prussian Army. Willich became an admirer of Karl Marx and after his participation in the failed 1848 revolution, he came to the United States. When the Civil War started Willich was editor of a communist German language newspaper in Cincinnati. Willich became colonel of the 32nd Indiana and distinguished himself at Shiloh and Perryville. In July 1862 Willich was promoted to brigadier general and after being wounded in the Atlanta campaign he spent the remainder of the war on administrative duty.

This could be done sooner — cheaper — & more certainly than any movement by land— Think of it— This will complete the Anaconda circle around the rebels—

Respy

Y. M. O. S.

Leslie Combs

From Thomas H. Hicks to Abraham Lincoln, March 18, 1862

“Appleby”

March 18th 1862

My dear Sir,

I will not longer deny myself the pleasure of congratulating you, and the Country, whose Chief Executive you are, upon your patriotic, sensible, and prudent Message of the 7th inst.1

1 On March 6, 1862 Lincoln presented a plan for gradual, compensated emancipation to Congress.

Although some of your real friends in this locality have been alarmed by it; fearing it to be the precursor of trouble to the Border slave states, I as a Marylander, and as a slave-holder, thank you for it. The option being left with the States; the offer to provide compensation, when we may be ready to act, is all that any can reasonably ask.

I consider the blow to be aimed as much at the ultraists of the North as at the southern fanatics, between whom, I think there is but little difference. If you will kill the conspirators and the ultra abolitionists; you will have the thanks of all that remain.

The patriotic and Union-loving citizens here and everywhere will stand by you as long as you continue to be conservative; and your honest and successful course in the Past, warrants the belief that the remainder of your Administration will be characterized by a strict adherence to the Constitution.

I am with great respect, your friend

and obt. servant,

Tho: H. Hicks

From Missouri Delegates in Congress to Abraham Lincoln, March 18, 1862

Washington City March 18th 1862.

Sir,

The undersigned Senators and Representatives, from the State of Missouri, in the Congress of the United States, appreciating the eminent ability and integrity, and profound legal learning of Senator O. H. Browning of Illinois, beg leave, most respectfully to recommend him, as a gentleman eminently qualified for appointment, as one of the Judges of the Supreme Court of the United States. Should a vacancy occur, or the number of Circuits be enlarged, we are satisfied that the appointment of Mr. B. would be most acceptable to the people, and to the members of the Bar, residing, in the North-Western States.

We have the Honor to be,

With high regard,

Your Obedient Servants,

R Wilson1

1 Robert Wilson, a Missouri lawyer and politician, was appointed to the U. S. Senate in 1862 to fill the vacancy created by the expulsion of Waldo P. Johnson. Wilson remained in the Senate until 1863.

J. B. Henderson2

2 John B. Henderson

James S. Rollins3

3 Rollins was elected to Congress in 1860 as a Constitutional Unionist and served until 1865.

Thos. L. Price4

4 Price was elected to Congress to fill the vacancy created by the expulsion of John W. Reid and served from 1862 until 1863.

Wm. A. Hall5

5 William A. Hall, the brother of Willard P. Hall, was elected to Congress to fill the vacancy created by the expulsion of John B. Clark and served from 1862 until 1865.

Frank. P. Blair Jr

Jno W Noell6

6 Noell served as a Democrat in Congress (1859-63).

From Abraham Lincoln to Samuel B. Tobey [Draft]1, March 19, 1862

1 On February 8 Lincoln received an address from Samuel Tobey and other representatives of Rhode Island Quakers, thanking him for his handling of the Trent Affair. Because of the illness and death of Willie Lincoln, Lincoln was slow to reply to those emissaries. See Society of Friends for New England to Abraham Lincoln, February 5, 1861, William Sprague to Lincoln, February 8, 1861.

Executive Mansion,

Washington, March 19, 1862.

My dear Sir:

A domestic affliction,2 of which doubtless you are informed, has delayed me so long in making acknowledgedment for the very kind and appropriate letter, signed, on behalf, and by direction of a Meeting of the Representatives of the Society of Friends for New-England, held at Providence, Rhode Island the 8th of second month 1862, by Samuel Boyce, Clerk, and presented to me by yourself and associates—

2 William Wallace Lincoln died of typhoid fever on February 20, 1862.

Engaged, as I am, in a great war, I fear it will be difficult for the world to understand how fully I appreciate the principles of peace, inculcated in this letter, and everywhere, by the Society of Friends— Grateful to the good people you represent for their prayers in behalf of our common country, I look forward hopefully to an early end of war, and return of peace.

Your obliged friend

A. Lincoln

From George Ashmun to Abraham Lincoln, March 19, 1862

(Private) Wednesday March 19th '62,

My Dear Sir;

Not having been able to have access to you this morning since seeing Mr Stanton, I take the liberty of writing briefly, inasmuch as Mr S. says he will speak to you on the subject of the contract of Messrs Hedden & Hoey at your meeting to-day.1

1 Hedden and Hoey had a contract to supply arms to the government. See Collected Works, V, 163 and 165.

Most unaccountably he still hesitates in the matter notwithstanding the plain justice of the case, & your strong letter to him; but says that he shall be glad to be relieved by an order from you for the acceptance of the arms.

I remarked to him that perhaps it would be unpleasant for him to receive such an order; & for that reason you might be unwilling to give it. He gave me the most decided & repeated assurances to the contrary.

I do not wish to be considered as the reporter of unofficial conversations; but am quite sure that unless such an order be given by you inevitable ruin will fall upon the young man in whom I am so much interested.

I have therefore, by way of suggestion, drawn up the form of an order which is herewith respectfully submitted for your consideration

Most earnestly do I beg you to pardon my urgency in this matter & trust that you will duly appreciate the feelings which lead me to it.

Yours Truly

Geo: Ashmun

In the matter of the War Department to Hedden & Hoey of Novr 23d 1862, accepted by them Novr 26 for delivery by them of 50.000 Prussian Muskets on or before the 15th of January. It appearing that 28.352 were in fact delivered before the time required & have proved valuable to the public service & fully equal to the standard sample, & that the remainder were purchased by them in season to have reached New York by Jany 15th, but were delayed by the unforeseen condition of our foreign relations, & actually reached New York only about ten days later that than the time required, & are now there ready for delivery; & that the parties did, in good faith, every thing in their power to comply with the strict letter of the order; & that the Ordnance Bureau now recommend their acceptance as being important to the public service, it is now ordered that they be accepted subject to the terms & conditions of the original order both as to the alteration of the cores & inspections; & that the War Department take immediate measures accordingly

From David L. Philips to Henry W. Halleck, March 19, 1862

Springfield, March 19th 1862.

Sir:

Major Mason Brayman,1 of the theRegiment Illinois Volunteers, Assistant Adjutant General to Major Genl. McClernand, who proved himself a brave and gallant officer at Belmont and Fort Donelson, has become enfeebled by sickness and the arduous duties of his position, and desires some place which will not task his physical system like active service in the field. Major Brayman aided largely in the original organization of Genl. McClernand's Brigade, and has most laboriously performed the duties of his post to the present time.

1 ID: Mason Brayman, a journalist, editor and lawyer, settled in Illinois in 1842 and was appointed by Governor Ford as a commissioner to help settle the Mormon troubles. Brayman wrote the introduction to the 1845 edition of the Illinois Revised Statutes and worked as general solicitor of the Illinois Central Railroad. At the outbreak of the Civil War Brayman was made a major in the 29th Illinois and was the regiment's colonel by 1862. After seeing action at Fort Donelson and Shiloh, Brayman was appointed a brigadier general of volunteers in September 1862 and spent the remainder of the war as a post commander in Ohio, Tennessee and Mississippi.

He has, for great many years past, resided in Ills. Compiled our Illinois Statutes in 1845, was for some years Solicitor in Chief for the Illinois Central Railroad Company, and has been largely interested with the railroad interests of the Country. He is a man of Superior talents and Sagacity, Laborious and methodical in business, and now quite trained in military affairs.

It would be, to our whole people, a matter of much gratification if you would make him post Commandant of Cairo Ills.

Being a good lawyer, of age, dignity and great urbanity of manners, he would give great satisfaction, I think, to all.

He is a moderate democrat — always has been, — a man of unquestioned loyalty, understands fully Southern Ill. and Southeastern Missouri, and would be able to do much that a Stranger could not.—

I beg your pardon for this seeming impertinence, I do most fully approve of all your operations, and hope you may, in the future, be as successful as in the past.—

Your Obt. Servt.

D. L. Phillips

U. S. Marshall

From Moses H. Grinnell to Abraham Lincoln, March 20, 1862

New York 20 March 62

Dear Sir

You may be assured that a great many of your friends in this city, have learned with pleasure that you have expressed yourself favorably to the restoration of Commodore Stringham1 to active service, and as we are informed there will soon be appointed four flag officers— We most respectfully solicit that he may be one of them—

1 Silas Stringham

Commodore Stringham has hosts of friends in this city, and they feel that great injustice has been done him in the Navy Dept—

No charges have been bro't against him and his friends are confident nothing can be to impair his position as an officer of high merit, and long experience as Commander.

It is in our opinion wicked to cast such a brave man aside (one who for thirty five years has been a devoted — loyal officer), through the pique of some such officer in the Navy Dep't— Excuse the liberty I take in addressing you on this subject, but beleive me

Very Truly

Your obd't Sevt

M. H. Grinnell

From James Cooper to Abraham Lincoln, March 21, 1862

Head Quarters. Md. Vols.

Baltimore, March 21st 1862.

Respected Sir:—

It was with some surprise that I was informed of the reports, derogatory to the character of Admiral Zerman,1 which had been put into circulation. I am aware that no blamelessness is a shield from detraction. I had hoped, however, from the combination of frankness and prudence in the Admiral's character, that he would have escaped its malignant whisperings. After the kind manner, in which I have, upon all occasions, been treated by your Excellency, I would be ungrateful, as well as unworthy of all future confidence, were I capable of misleading you in relation to the character of any one seeking an important public trust. At a time like the present, when the most perfect integrity in every public servant, and more especially in those belonging to the army, is necessary, I should regard it as a wrong to you and a crime against the country, to ask your confidence for any unworthy person.

1 Juan Napoleon Zerman, a former admiral in the Turkish and Mexican navies, was appointed a brigadier general of volunteers by Lincoln in March 1862. The Senate confirmed the nomination on May 5, but recalled the confirmation on the following day.

When some months since I gave Admiral Zerman a letter to your Excellency, I did it on the faith of an acquaintance of several years, under circumstances which brought me into frequent or intimate contact with him. He was introduced to me by General Angel Trias, one of the most distinguished men in the Republic of Mexico, and who is now occupying a high, if not the highest point, in the Mexican liberal army. Admiral Zerman was the trusted and confidential friend of Gen. Trias, and the agent thr'o whom various important transactions were carried on with the Supreme and local governments of the republic. All parties testified for him an amount of respect which is never paid except to worth and ability combines.

In the transactions above referred to, I was brought in contact with a number of distinguished Mexicans besides Gen. Trias amongst others with the late ministers Uragua and Mata. From all these, I received the same impression in regard to the Admiral — the impression, that he was esteemed as an able and upright man, possessing great activity, energy and prudence. That he does possess all these qualities, in a high degree, I have no doubt; nor have I any doubt, but that he will acquit himself honorably of any duty committed to his hands.

With the sincerest respect

I am your excellency's

Obedient and obliged Servant

James Cooper

Maj Gen. Md Volunteers.

From Daniel E. Sickles to Abraham Lincoln, March 21, 1862

In Camp —

21st March. 1862.

Sir,

The recent rejection of my nomination by the Senate, unofficially announced, imposes upon me the duty of making some explanations to yourself, lest it should be said that my conduct, while in command, has not justified the wisdom of your selection—.

If it be true, as I think it is, that a Company reflects, in its discipline and efficiency, the capacity of its Captain — that there can no be a good Regiment without a competent Colonel, so I agree, that after having been for many months in the service, my qualifications for the command of a Brigade should be now manifest in the condition and conduct of the troops composing the five Regiments which I had the honor, under your auspices, to bring into the service.

Dismissing, as far as I can, the prepossessions which naturally follow my immediate relation to troops raised and organized by myself; and disclaiming any other purpose than the wish to claim for my Brigade that just recognition of its pretensions to merit, which none should desire to withhold; — I assure you, Sir, with all the sincerity, which, respect for your person and admiration for your character, can add to my own earnest convictions, that for discipline, efficiency and bearing, the Regiment comprising this Brigade are worthy of a place in the Army of the Potomac, and, when the opportunity shall be presented, will contribute to the honors which this Army can not fail to win in the field.

I ask to be permitted to vindicate at the head of this column of brave and loyal men, the justice and fitness of your generous confidence in conferring upon me the distinction and responsibility of a high command—.

I ask that I may be continued in command of the Brigade as the Senior Colonel present, until the progress of the Campaign shall prove, by the sure test of combat, whether my aptitude for military duties ceased when I raised, organized and brought into the service, a larger body of volunteers than any other citizen has yet done.

I ask, if there be any doubt as to the propriety of acceding to this request in the opinion of the General Commanding, arising from representations made elsewhere, as to the Senate, by those whom I could not confront, that an Inspector General be sent to report upon the condition of the Brigade, in every particular which indicates the presence or the absence of a competent Commanding Officer—.

Permit me to request, that if these suggestions are so fortunate as to receive the sanction of your own more enlightened judgement, that they may be referred to the Secretary of War and through him to the General Commanding of the Army of the Potomac, with such commendatory endorsement as it may be agreeable to yourself to bestow—

I have the honor to be

Sir

Very Respectfully

Your most Obedient Servant

Dl. Sickles

From Thomas E. Bramlette to Green Adams, March 23, 1862

(Private)

Louisville Ky March 23rd 1862

Hon Green Adams:—

On yesterday I wrote to you in reference to the subject we had under consideration whilst you were here; but perhaps did not with sufficient distinctness indicate my own preferences—

I am now and at all time ready to take any position, the humblest if need be, where I can most efficiently aid my Government against the rebellion. But I have had much at heart the projecté of which we conversed; and have thought that, I ought perhaps be able to forward it by taking hold of it under proper authority as much, and perhaps more than any other man in Kentucky. It is because I supposed my efficiency in that way would be most conducive to good results that I have felt such solicitude about it.— But if there be any man who may possibly be able to accomplish more, than I could, he should be the man.

I believe that Genl. Shackleford1 & myself could raise the required number, in a short time.

1 ID: James M. Shackelford was a Kentucky lawyer who supported the Union at the outbreak of the Civil War. Despite Kentucky's ostensible neutrality at the outset of the war, Shackelford raised troops for the Union and became colonel of the 25th Kentucky. In September 1862 Shackelford became colonel of the 8th Kentucky Cavalry and was promoted to brigadier general in January 1863. Shackelford's most important contribution to the war effort was his role in the campaign that resulted in the capture of John Hunt Morgan during the summer of 1863. In 1864 Shackelford resigned from the army and resumed his law practice.

My personal friend Col. W. T. Scott of Lexington would like to have the office of Provost Marshall for this District He would make a very superior Provs. Marshall. He possesses in an eminent degree the qualities and qualifications that fit him peculiarly for that place.

Respectfully

Tho E Bramlette

From James Shields to Seth Williams1, March 23, 1862

1 The following is a report of the battle of First Kernstown. Shields defeated Stonewall Jackson, but in his telegram to Williams, Shields overestimates the size of the enemy force he encountered. The Confederates engaged around 4,000 soldiers at Kernstown rather than the 15,000 estimated by Shields. The Union suffered 590 casualties and the Confederates 700.

Received 9.20 P. M.

Winchester March 23d

Gen'l S. Williams

We have this day achieved a glorious victory over the combined forces of Jackson Smith & Longstreet— The battle was fought within four miles of this place— It raged from half past ten oclock this morning until dark— The enemy's strength was about fifteen thousand The strength of our division not over eight thousand— Our loss killed and wounded is not ascertained, but is heavy The enemy's loss is double that of ours We have captured a large number of prisoners some of their guns and the ground is strewn with the arms they have thrown away in their flight— The cavalry is still in pursuit of the retreating enemy— The particulars cannot be accurately ascertained until day light

Jas Shields

Brig Gen'l

Comd'g

From Matilda W. Emory to Abraham Lincoln1, March 24, 1862

1 Matilda W. Emory was the wife of General William H. Emory and a great granddaughter of Benjamin Franklin.

Monday morning

March 24th

My dear Sir—

Again I venture to intrude myself on you asking a favor— If it is an impropriety on my part you will pass it over & impute it to my ignorance of proper forms as I address you without the knowledge of my husband— I have received a letter from Col: now with many thanks to you, Brig: Gen: Emory, from Alexandria, saying he was under orders to march at a moment's notice & that it was very important to him on many accounts, he should receive his Commission as Brig Gen: before his departure on this expedition & begging me to go to the Adjutant General for it & send it to him— I understand it has been sent to you for your signature & that is the reason I trouble you, to ask you if you will sign it & return to the Adjutant Gen: whence I can obtain & send it to Col: Emory by one of my sons— I feel that it is a great liberty to take to intrude our individual interests on you at a time when you have more weighty affairs to transact, but trust to your kind indulgence, which I have so much reason to remember in the past. Forgive me if I have presumed too much— My son will await an answer.

With much respect

M. W. Emory

From George B. McClellan to Edwin M. Stanton, March 24, 1862

Head Quarters, Army of the Potomac,

near Alexandria Seminary, Va, Mch 24/62

Sir

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a letter of Mr George T Brown, Serg't at Arms to the joint Committee on the Conduct of the War.1

1 Brown's March 17, 1862 letter to the Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War is in this collection.

Being in the field, full access at this time cannot be had to the records of these Head Quarters which are in Washington, and any statement regarding the matter must be had from memory.

There are however two sets of charges against Colonel Tompkins,2 one of misbehaviour before the enemy at Bull Run, and the other, a set of several charges, embracing among them one of making a false muster. These papers are now it is thought in the possession of Major General Banks. It is beleived that Colonel Tompkins will receive no injustice at the hands of General Banks, and as General Stone is not in command in any manner over Colonel Tompkins he cannot proceed to his injury.

2 According to George T. Brown, George W. B. Tompkins, the colonel of the 82nd New York, had been a valuable witness against General Charles P. Stone. On March 20, 1862, Lincoln wrote to Stanton and recommended that Tompkins be appointed a brigadier general, but the appointment was never made. See George T. Brown's March 17, 1862 letter to the Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War and Collected Works, V, 167.

I am, Sir,

Very Respectfully

Your obedient Servant,

Geo B McClellan

Maj Gen USA

[Endorsed by Edwin M. Stanton:]

Report of Major General George B McClellan commanding the Army of the Potomac respecting

Col GBW Tompkins nominated for Brigadier

Referred to the President for his information

Edwin M. Stanton

March 28, 1862

From John P. Hale to Gideon Welles, March 26, 1862

Senate Chambers, March 26th, 1862

Sir:

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 21st instant, in relation to the case of Washington A. Bartlett, and it seems to me to require a brief answer.

You say that you have received my communication informing the department that a “majority” of the Committee on Naval Affairs had voted to recommend the restoration of Washington A. Bartlett to his former position in the U. S. Navy.

You then add that a minority of the Committee have called on you and expressed their decided objection to the restoration of Mr. Bartlett, and further, that as the Department can in no event, by its own action, restore that gentleman to his former position in the Navy, the subject is respectfully recommitted to the Committee.

Now I have a few remarks to make on these statements. In the first place I did not inform you that a “majority” of the Committee had done any thing; but in the usual form I stated to you that the Committee had recommended &c. After I had heard that some question had been raised on that subject, in your room, and in your presence, I added in a postscript, that the vote was by a majority of the whole Committee.

Committees of the Senate, like all other bodies of similar character, must act by majorities, and if the suggestions of a minority can control the deliberate action of the body, as determined by a majority vote, there is an end of all propriety or necessity of any action by the body.

Entertaining these opinions, I cannot understand the force of your remark, when you say that a minority of the Committee have are opposed to what the Committee have recommended. You say the Department, by its own action, cannot restore Mr. Bartlett to his former position, and therefore the subject is respectfully recommitted to the Committee. Why to the Committee? They have acted, — their counsel is disregarded, and that of the minority is followed. I presume that not one of the Committee was ignorant of the legal position which you state, — that the department, by its own action, could not restore Mr. Bartlett; but they acted upon the supposition that what the Secretary recommended, the President would adopt. Indeed, the common phraseology of many of the nominations sent in by the President to the Senate, is that they are sent “as recommended” by the Secretary. Especially is this so in the Army.

As I have learned, by a member of the Cabinet, that this subject has been a matter of consultation in the Cabinet counsels, and possibly may be again, I desire to make a simple statement of facts in this case. Early in the present session, I called on you and told you that I was satisfied that great injustice had been done to Mr Bartlett, and requested you to send his name to the Senate, that it might be fully examined and passed upon — first, by the Senate Committee on Naval Affairs, and then by the whole Senate. This you declined to do, and added that if the Committee would take the responsibility of examining the case, and would recommend such a course, Mr. Bartlett's name should be sent in to the Senate. Having this assurance, I retired from the Navy Department, and communicated the same to the Committee, and also to Mr. Bartlett. Upon this information thus communicated, the Committee, at various times, took the subject into consideration, and after much time and no little labor on the part of individuals, in the full meeting of the Committee, one only being absent, the Committee voted to recommend Mr. Bartlett should be restored, and in my humble judgement there was no alternative left for the Department, consistent with that courtesy and respect which the Naval Committee had a right to expect from the head of the Naval Department, than to send the name of Mr. Bartlett to the Senate, where his claims to promotion might be fully canvassed, first, by the Committee, and then by the Senate.

I had no particular acquaintance with nor friendship for Mr. Bartlett, except what had been induced by the conviction that he had been unjustly dealt with by the action of his own Government; but so believing, I have been anxious that the wrong which he had suffered should be redressed.

Mr. Bartlett was stricken from the rolls of the Navy by the action of a Board which tried and condemned for moral offences and crimes, without letting the accused know who was the accuser, the offense with which he was charged, or the evidence by which it was to be sustained, and all the attemps which he has since made to relieve himself from the crushing effects of this fatal blow, struck at him in the dark, by men were, during the last administration, perseveringly opposed by a majority of the Naval Committee as then constituted, aided and stimulated by prejudiced officers of the same corps, who had been instrumental in procurring the passage of the Act under which Mr. Bartlett had been dismissed.

I do not propose to argue Mr. Bartlett's case. I have strong convictions — very strong — on this subject. I believe he has been most unjustly deal with, — that he is a victim not only of injustice, but of prejudice, and so feeling, I have endeavored to obtain justice for him, and I was much gratified when you left the matter to the determination of the Naval Committee, and I have been chagrined and mortified that from any considerations, you have declined to carry out the recommendation of the Committee in a matter in which you had invited their action.

I have no personal complaint to make, although placed in the embarrassing position of inviting the action of the Committee on a subject not regularly before them, but which I had assured them you had suggested and invited, and then finding their action treated with contempt.

I have sent a copy of this letter to the President, and each member of the Cabinet; as I have understood that the subject matter to which it relates has been brought to their consideration

Wit Respect, Yours

John P Hale

Chairman Committee on

Naval Affairs

From John F. Lee to Abraham Lincoln, March 26, 1862

Judge-advocates office

March 26. 1862.

I have examined into Williams' case.1 I cannot find official evidence of the facts stated in the Petition. His name is not on the roll of wounded at Fort Donelson; nor is his regiment reported in that action. The last report of it was at Paducah. The next report may show the facts.

1 For the details of this case, see Green B. Walters to Lincoln, March 15, 1862.

It does not appear from the Petition that he is in arrest for desertion; or in present danger of it; though of course he is liable to that charge.

It is perhaps not advisable to issue a pardon in advance of trial, whereby the true merits of the case may be ascertained. The suggestion in this case that the desertion was induced by suspicion or discovery of “secession sympathies in some of his detachment, and by a high loyalty that could not brook” such companionship seems to be an over refinement.

If he rendered good service in the battle at Fort Donelson, and was wounded there, that is good cause for full pardon of the previous desertion. But if a pardon sets out these facts, and they are not true, would not the pardon be void? It is so at common law; but I do not know how it is under the Constitution.

“If it may be reasonably be presumed that the King is deceived, the Pardon is void. 2d. Hawk and any suppression of truth, or suggestion of falsehood in a charter of pardon will vitiate the whole; for the King is misinformed” 3d. Inst.

The President may however, if he sees fit, upon the statements of any one in whom he has confidence order a pardon; and if it states no reasons or conditions it could not be questioned.

It may be so done, at this time, in this case, if the President so directs.

I would not however advise a discharge from service. The party himself does not apply for it. If he has a disabling wound he can claim it on certificate of disability. To grant discharges with a view to reenlistment, as proposed in this case is, I think, wrong, because of the pecuniary allowances to be procured in that way.

I return the papers for the President's orders.

The enclosed telegram shows the present state of Tough's case. It awaits the Presidents further orders.

The order of the President, brought by Governor Crittenden yesterday,2 was immediately issued by telegraph, suspending execution of death on Magoffin, brother of Governor of Kentucky and calling for the record. It was notified to Governor Magoffin by telegraph

2 Lincoln wrote to Lee on March 25 and suspended the execution of Ebenezer Magoffin.

Respectfully submitted

J. F. Lee

Judge advocate

From John R. Richards to Abraham Lincoln, March 26, 1862

New York 26th March 1862.

Sir.

I send by “Adams Express” to-day, the “Boomerang” promised to you when I had the pleasure of meeting you in company with my half brother, Fisher.

Please be careful in its use, in your first trial of skill, or it may outflank you, and take you in the rear.—

Personally, I should have no objections to its bringing the War to a close, or stopping for a time the disloyal speeches of Wendell Phillips,1 or even taking Island No 10—

1 Wendell Phillips, the prominent abolitionist orator, was a severe critic of the Lincoln Administration before the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.

The “Ornithorhincus Paradoxus”2 has been written for, and will be forthcoming in due season.

2 Ornithorhynchus paradoxus is the scientific name for the duckbilled platypus.

Whilst walking down to my office this morning, I met Kennedy, Chief of Police, he eyed the Boomerang and without dreaming of its dangerous qualities, gave it and myself a wide berth, that is I crossed the street, for fear of consequences.— I like you, but I hate Kennedy.

Pray Mr President excuse this freedom of the pen, and believe me

Respectfully & faithfully

Your Obedient Servant

John R Ricards

No 84 Wall Street

P. S. I perceive the committee on the Tax Bill, has neglected “playing cards” in its Tariff. surely these are a legitimate article for taxation and as I hate gambling, I hope a “quarter” will be levied on each pack.

J: R. R.

I send “Jeff's” last photograph.

From Charles P. McIlvaine to Abraham Lincoln1, March 27, 1862

1 Charles P. McIlvaine, an Episcopal bishop, went to Europe in 1861-62 with Thurlow Weed and Archbishop John Hughes in order to influence French and English opinion regarding the Civil War.

London March 27, /62

My dear Mr President—

I beg, from this distance, to express my respectful sympathy in your recent painful affliction.2 It has come upon you when your mind was burdened with the heavy weight of our dear country's troubles; but when you were soon to realize the conviction of knowing how wonderfully God was about to favour your measures & lift up the hearts of all loyal people— May He give you, my dear Sir — to find in Him, in his love & the peace which comes to us,sinners, through the sacrifice & intercession of our Lord Jesus Christ, that consolation , for this & all future trials, which the world & no creature has to give!

2 Willie Lincoln died on February 20, 1862.

Americans here rejoice in the step you have taken towards Emancipation, as well as the District of C — as in the States—3 It h is having a capital effect on the English mind— Nothing could do so much in that direction. The return of Mr Cyrus Field4 to-day — tempts me to write to you— He has been of great service here—

3 On March 6, 1862, Lincoln presented a proposal to Congress for gradual, compensated emancipation.

4 Cyrus Field had been responsible for promoting and organizing the laying of the first transatlantic cable that was completed in 1858. During the Civil War, Field continued to promote the laying of submarine cables.

I remain, my dear Sir

Yours very respectfully

Chas. P. McIlvaine

From Abraham D. Russell to Abraham Lincoln1, March 27, 1862

1 Russell was a New York City judge and associate of James Gordon Bennett.

New York March 27th 1862

Office 25 Chamber Street

Dear Sir

My Brother in Law Mr Theodore Taylor has been in the Post office Department for several years in this City at a salary of Eight Hundred per annum, and is desirous of retaining his position under the newly appointed Post Master Abraham Wakeman— His retention in office will be a source of great gratification to a number of your particular friends in this City — as also to myself— He is honest and faithful in the discharge of his duties as Genl Dix and Mr Taylor whom Mr Wakeman succeeds, can certify— May I ask the favor of your Excellency to send me a line addressed to Mr Wakeman requesting his retention in the position he now holds—2 With great respect I remain

2 Wakeman wrote to William H. Seward on April 2 and informed him that he planned to retain Taylor. See Abram Wakeman to Seward, April 2, 1862.

Your most Obt Servt

A D Russell

From John Bright to George Bancroft1, March 29, 1862

1 John Bright was a very prominent member of Parliament and a supporter of the Union during the Civil War.

Private Letter,

not to be printed.

London, March 29. 1862.

My dear Mr. Bancroft,

Your kind letter of the 25th ult. has given me great pleasure, for it is no small satisfaction to me to be assured that what I have said and done here has been approved by the leading minds among your Countrymen. There was something like a tempest raging here when I made the speech on the 4th Decr. last — now & for some weeks past, all is calm. The great body of our people have not wished ill to your to your country; they regard the United States as the sure refuge of millions of their class & order, & they will rejoice at the success of your Govt. & the restoration of your Union. You know our Govt., & the character of our ruling class, & you can understand how the instincts of that class are adverse to your Institutions, & how natural it is for them to see good, not to England, but to themselves & their policy in the disruption of your Commanding Power.

Since our Parlt. met, everything has calmed down — the blockade is effective — our neutral position must be adhered to & as your Govt. has shewn its superiority over those in insurrection against it, there is less disposition to quarrel with you. The question now put to me is not, can the North vanquish the South? but, can North & South, after such a conflict live together again? I tell all men here that I have faith in your Country, & people, & Govt., & the complete restoration of your Union, & in a future for you which, in true greatness & glory will far exceed the past, — & I find many willing to think I am right, who, until very lately, would have ridiculed such a faith.

At the same time I can see that you may find your difficulties all but insurmountable when you have dispersed the Southern armies, & repossessed all the chief points of the insurgent states. I will however believe that, under the controlling guidance of the Highest Power your people will succeed in so subjugating the slave power that it will never again appear in an aggressive or political character in the Union. This much must be secured, or the war will be fruitless, & this accomplished, the war will not have been in vain.

The late message of the President on the subject of “Compensated abolition”2 has given much pleasure here to all the friends of the United States — & we are anxious to learn how it is received in the chief Border States. To them it seems to me calculated to draw them to freedom & to the Southern States to be likely to act as a menace, forewarning them of the worse fate from which they may not escape if the war is long continued.

2 On March 6, 1862, Lincoln presented to Congress a proposal for gradual, compensated emancipation.

I am anxious to hear that the cotton ports are in the hands of the Govt. — with your own Custom House officers restored in New Orleans & Mobile, the blockade of the gulf might be at once raised, & probably some small supplies of Cotton might be forwarded— There is a good deal of suffering here, in Lancashire chiefly, of course, from the excessive price of Cotton & Trade is completely paralysed by the uncertainty which prevails as to the time when supplies may again be looked for. I have all along preached the doctrine that Cotton can only be had thro' the success of the North — & this opinion is now generally adopted in Lancashire — there is therefore in that County a strong wish that your success should be rapid & complete.

I believe that when your war is over, & the Union restored — when the strength of your Govt. has been shewn, when its magnanimity in victory is as apparent as has been its firmness amid gloom & disaster — then there will be in this Country a respect for & an admiration of your people such as has not existed heretofore. There has been much discussion, & much information has been spread on American affairs, & our people will know your people better in future.

I agree with you on the point of the Privateering of the South to some extent — but the matter is really of small importance, & their piracies have had no influence on the course of the struggle. You will see the debate in our House of Commons a fortnight ago on Maritime Law. I shewed them how the Proclamation at the beginning of the Russian war & the Declaration of the Congress of Paris in 1856 were absolutely necessary from the growth of the power of the United States, & from their determination to resist our right of search — all of which was confirmed in the course of the debate by Lord Palmerston & Mr. Disraeli. I do not suppose our Govt. will do much on maritime law unless there be a chance of war, when it may be needful to settle some somethings now undetermined.

With thanks for your kind letter — & best wishes for your cause & Govt. & people — believe me always

very sincerely yours

John Bright

From Caleb B. Smith to John Watt1, March 29, 1862

1 John Watt was the White House gardener during the Buchanan Administration and was appointed a lieutenant in the army in September 1861. This commission was revoked in 1862. Watt enlisted in a New York artillery regiment and later received a commission as an officer in the 38th U. S. Colored Troops.

Copy

Washington, March 29, 1862

Dear Sir — I have your letter of the 21st inst., asking that instructions may be sent to you immediately. As I explained to you before you left here it is impossible to make the instructions at this time, as until we get the report of the agent now in Europe, we cannot tell what will be necessary.2

2 David P. Holloway appointed Watt a special agent of the Agricultural Division of the Patent Office for the purpose of purchasing seeds in Europe. See Holloway to Watt, March 14, 1862.

Your instructions will be forwarded to you in Europe as soon as we shall be able to ascertain what has been done by the present agent who has been ordered to make his report and return home

Very Respectfully

Caleb B. Smith

From George B. McClellan to Abraham Lincoln, March 31, 1862

Private

Washington March 31/62

My dear Sir

Your note in regard to Genl Blenker's Division has reached me just as I am on the point of leaving for Alexandria.1

1 Lincoln wrote to McClellan on March 31 that he was ordering General Louis Blenker's division to reinforce General Fremont. See Collected Works, V, 175-176.

I need not say that I regret the loss of Blenker's Division — first because they are excellent troops — second — because I know they are warmly attached to me.

I fully appreciate, however, the circumstances of the case, & hasten to assure you that I cheerfully acquiesce in your decision without any mental reservation.

Recognizing implicitly as I ever do the plenitude of your power as Commander in Chief, I cannot but regard the tone of your note as in the highest degree complimentary to me, & as adding one more to the many proofs of personal regard you have so often honored me with

I shall do my best to use all the more activity to make up for the loss of this Division, & beg again to assure you that I will ever do my very best to carry out your views & support your interests in the same frank spirit you have always shown towards me

I am very respectfully

and sincerely your friend

Geo B McClellan

From John A. McClernand to Abraham Lincoln, March 31, 1862

Camp McClernand near Pittsburgh Tenn

March 31” 1862

I enclose herewith, unofficially and for your personal information, my report of the battle of Fort Donelson:1 also, the copy of another communication which explains itself — another copy of the same having been previously sent to General Smith.

1 A copy of McClernand's February 28, 1862 report is in this collection.

Without asking what it may not be convenient or proper for you to grant; yet permit me to say, that if you will give me an independent command, in an active and contested field, I will try and reward your confidence with success.

I congratulate you and the country upon your proper and lawful assumption of the practical duties and responsibilities of Commander in Chief.

Again allow me to petition you to assign J. H. Wilson,2 now at Hilton Head S. C. a Lieut in the Topographical Corps, and Wright, C. Reeves, now in the Army of the Potomac, and lately a Lt., for duty in my Staff. Both wish to join me, and think they can be more useful with me than where they are. Both have been known to me from their infancy.

2 James H. Wilson

Your Obt Servt

John A. M. McClernand.

P. S. The impending battle between the hosts gathering and marshaling, at this place, and at Corinth, and near points, I hope, will serve to commend and enforce my request for the young men named.

MC.

From Edwin D. Morgan to Abraham Lincoln, March 31, 1862

Executive Department

Albany Mch. 31. 1862

My dear Sir:

I have received through Assistant Adjutant General Geo. D. Ruggles, your request of the 26th inst. that I should re-commission Lieut. Col. La Fayette Bingham 92d N. Y. Vols. (whose resignation was accepted by special orders No. 74 Head Quarters Army of the Potomac, Mch. 13. 1862,) provided the vacancy, occasioned by his resignation has not been otherwise filled.

While I shall always readily comply with any requests of this nature, that you may make, I nevertheless, before doing so, deem it to be my duty to inform you of the very improper means adopted by Lieut. Col. Bingham to obtain his commission.

“About the 17th inst. Lieut. Col. Bingham addressed a letter to one of the clerks in the Adjutant Generals Office, stating that Colonel Sanford, “the old baby Colonel” of the 92d. Regiment N. Y. S. V. would shortly be removed from his command on account of incompetency; that the line officers of the Regiment were circulating a petition asking for his (Bingham's) appointment to the Colonelcy, in the event of Col. Sanford's removal. He further stated that he would pay the said clerk the sum of $100. if the Colonelcy of the 92d. Regiment could be secured for him (Bingham). The letter was returned with the following endorsement: — In answer to the within letter I have only to state that the fact of your being out of the service alone shields you from the vigorous penalties that would otherwise be inflicted upon you by a Court Martial.”

Awaiting your further request in this regard,

I have the honor to be,

With the highest respect,

Your obdt. servant.

E. D. Morgan

From B. Severson to Abraham Lincoln [With Endorsement by Lincoln]1, March 31, 1862

1 Lincoln referred this letter to General Joseph G. Totten, chief of engineers of the U. S. Army. Totten dismissed Severson's claims as excessive and unsupported. See Totten to Lincoln, April 12, 1862.

Mr President

For the purpose of improving the time promised, to the best advantage, I will briefly state my object in writing. First. Some Six years ago I told Speaker N. P. Banks,2 Gov Seward Senator Hale,3 and others, that the foundation was not sufficient for the new Dome of the Capitol. This defect, though then denied by Capt. Meigs4 and others, is already manifesting itself in gaping and increasing fractures in the walls, and is thus prooving that I understand such matters better than Meigs and his associates.

2 Nathaniel P. Banks

3 John P. Hale

4 Montgomery Meigs

Second. I have demonstrated, mathematically and experementally, that our reputed highest Engineers are governed by false theories as to the action of forces in beams, girders, roofs and bridges. The loss of strength resulting from their errors amounts to one third. Now on these two highly important facts, and many others of a simelar nature that I am prepared to show, I base a claim for prefference over military, and other Engineers for conducting civil construction for Government.

And I will add that I am quite confident that I could make important improvements in Military and Naval matters. That I could sink the Merrimac in ten minuites, the Monitor in fifteen minuites, and that I could have reduced the rebel works on Island Number 10 in half the time our forces have already spent upon them. In support of these views I desire to call attention to the well known fact that most of the improvements made in military matters is done by civilians.

Very respectfully

Your Obt Servt,

B. Severson

359. E St. West

Washington March 31, 1862.

[Endorsed by Lincoln: ]

Will Gen. Totten please look over this, and the accompanying drawings, & give me his opinion of them.

A. Lincoln

March April 1, 1862.

Unknown, Proposal for a General Order1, April 1, 1862

1 Though this document is written as though coming from Lincoln, its language and tone shows clearly that is not by Lincoln. The document is not in Lincoln's hand, nor are its few corrections. Only the docketing gives a clue to the origin of this “general order” as a “project” for an order to officers in the field. Its author remains unknown.

A general order by the President

to all Commanders of the U. S. Forces in the field.

______________________________

In the progress of this war so wickedly commenced against the United States, and waged by treason and rebellion, it has become necessary to regulate our advancing arms by definite orders, of general application. In the excitement of advance, of battle, and of victory, there is danger of forgetting the dictates of justice and of christianity.

You will always remember, therefore, that this war, so causelessly provoked by our enemies, is waged, on our part, solely to restore the supremacy of the Constitution, the Union, and the laws. These have been established, amidst many sacrifices of blood, treasure, and opinion, by us, by them, and especially by our common ancestry, now revered by the civilized of all nations. The work of the martyrs and patriots of the Revolution must never be overthrown by violence. We might well expect to be abandoned of Heaven, if we hesitated in the faithful and resolute defence of its best political gift to men.

It is not a war of vengeance, for that is the function alone of the Almighty. It remains for government to administer justice only under the forms of established law.

It is not a war for the subjugation of a country, for that is already an inseparable part of the United States; nor of a people, for great numbers of its inhabitants are still peaceable, loyal, and hopeful of an early deliverance, at your hands, from the despotism of military and civil usurpation.

It is not a war for the acquisition of property, except so far as the title thereto belongs unquestionably to the United States, by lawful purchase and former possession. Nor is it prosecuted for the destruction of property, or of any personal rights whatever, heretofore enjoyed, except so far as they may be used for the promotion of this unholy rebellion.

The war is not prosecuted for the deprivation of any political rights or privileges heretofore lawfully enjoyed by persons or communities, all of which at the close of the war will remain to the loyal citizen and to the political community holding constitutional allegiance to the general government as established by law.

On the other hand, you will cause it to be distinctly understood that the war is, on our part, for the subjugation suppression of all rebel organizations, all rebels in arms, and all usurped authority; and that all property voluntarily entangled in their support is inevitably imperilled by their continuance.

To all peaceable citizens, engaged in lawful avocations, you will proclaim and assure tranquility and protection in person and in property. You will take every care, on your official responsibility, that no wrong is done to any such well disposed citizen, by any under your command or within your control. Evince by your conduct, and that of the brave men under you, the falsehood of the charges made by the upholders of tyranny and usurpation respecting the purpose and effect of your advance.

Your only purpose is to restore to the people their constitutional rights and obligations, to give security to Agriculture, to re-open the channels of commerce, to revive trade, to give back the beneficence of a liberal and paternal government; in a word, to restore law, and order & tranquility, with all the blessings that accompany them.

As soon as due precautions will permit, freedom of commerce and travel will follow your military occupation, of which you will be advised by the proper department.

The foregoing declarations you will make known at all proper times and places, and will carry them into effect.

[Endorsement:]

Projet for Order to

Generals in the Field

From William H. L. Wallace to Abraham Lincoln1, April 1, 1862

1 ID: William H. L. Wallace, an Illinois lawyer and veteran of the Mexican War, was made colonel of the 11th Illinois at the outbreak of the Civil War. After serving with distinction under General McClernand at Fort Donelson, Wallace was promoted to brigadier general of volunteers in March 1862. Wallace commanded a division at Shiloh and was mortally wounded in the battle. He died on April 10, 1862.

Head quarters 2nd Brig. 1st Div.

Pittsburgh landing, Tenn.

April 1st 1862.

Sir:—

Having been semi officially informed that I am nominated and conformed a Brigadier General of Volunteers, and being in the field in active service in that capacity, I am desirous of having a good working staff as speedily as possible— I therefore respectfully ask the appointment of

Charles T. Hotchkiss, as Asst. Adjt. Genl. and Guyon I. Davis as Asst. Q. M. and that they may be assigned to duty with me. They are now on duty with me and have been for several months, and I confidently recommend them as fully competent for the respective offices named.

Very Respectfully

Your. Obdt. servt.

W. H. L. Wallace

From Charles A. Davis to William H. Seward, April 2, 1862

Rec 3d Ap.

official and unofficial

as your Secretary may direct—

New York 2 Ap: 1862

My Dr. Sir

The news papers of last week announced the name of “J. Napoleon Zerman”1 nominated by the President to the Senate as “Brigadier General”—

A foreigner bearing this name has figured here (and elsewhere) as a very great rogue— And if this be the same person (& I presume he is identically the same) it would be a sad error to allow him to hold any office of trust — honor — or emolument— I saw this same name announced a few months ago — once as a proposed “Port Captain” in our Navy “to command a squadron of Gun Boats on the Mississippi— Again as “Inspector Gen'l” in our Western Army— And now again as actually nominated — (as above) for the high and responsible position of “Brigadier Gen'l”— (From a sense of duty I felt called on to denounce him to you— And from a like sense of duty I now repeat it — tho' I do so reluctantly — never having done so before on any occasion— If this be the same individual — The President has been grossly imposed on — for a more [finished?] & dangerous scamp I never met— His history is of record on the books of the French Consulate here — to which I would respectfully refer— And knowing what I do of him I would feel that I had neglected a duty if I did not say what I now say — that he is not the person to elevate to any office — he is far better suited to the inside of a Penitentiary— This is severe language— And if need be I would address it to the Senate — but for obvious reasons I prefer addressing you — that the President may pause. This fellow once represented himself to me and others — as “an Admiral in the French Service” — & that he commanded the Frigate [“Belle Parley”?] — (the Prince de Joinville being only nominal commander — on the occasion of the exhumation and transit of the body of Nap: I from St. Helena—) I enquired lately of the Prince himself — who ignored the whole story— In a word I have no doubt myself this fellow is a scamp — of a most dangerous character— And to me the marvel is that he still seems afloat — as a promised recipient of high appointment — if I am right as to the individual— I would not feel more alarmed and distressed — if told that the President had pardon'd a convict in “Sing Sing” — or “Auburn” and made him Secy of State— I am curious to know who recommended this person to the confidence of the President — he must be either a deluded fool or a confirmed knave— Yr Friend & obdt s—

Ch: A Davis

P. S. if the report of this nomination is an error — then I have no more to say regarding this Vagrant — but if otherwise you will not fail to see the importance of preventing a very bad egg from going into the great national pudding—

C. A. D

From Charles Sumner to Abraham Lincoln, April 4, 1862

Senate Chamber

4th April '62

My dear Sir,

The mission to Spain will be soon vacant.1 Let me recommend for it John Jay of New York, who was recommended last summer by nearly every Republican Senator for the mission to Vienna. I know him personally to be earnest in character as in talent, & every way worthy of the confidence of the Administration. Of all candidates I knew none who are his superiors in fitness to represent us with honor abroad.

1 Carl Schurz returned from Spain in January 1862 and Lincoln appointed Gustave Koerner as his replacement.

Believe me,

My dear sir,

Very faithfully yours,

Charles Sumner

P. S. I enclose a note from Mr. Barney, which makes an apt suggestion.2

2 Hiram Barney's March 31, 1862 letter to Sumner is in this collection.

From George B. McClellan to Abraham Lincoln, April 5, 1862

Fort Monroe

apl 6. 2. am

Near Yorktown, 7.30 P. M.

The Enemy are in large force along our front and apparently intend making a determined resistance— A reconnoissance just made by Genl. Barnard, shows that their line of works extends across the entire Peninsula from Yorktown to Warwick river. Many of these are very formidable. Deserters say that they are being reinforced daily from Richmond, and from Norfolk— Under these circumstances I beg that you will reconsider the order detaching the first Corps from my Command—1 In my deliberate judgement the success of our cause will be imperilled when it is actually under the fire of the Enemy, and active operations have commenced. Two or three of my Divisions have been under fire of artillery most of the day. I am now of the opinion that I shall have to fight all of the available force of the Rebels, not far from here. Do no force me to do so with diminished numbers. But whatever your decision may be, I will leave nothing undone to obtain success. If you cannot leave me the whole of the first Corps, I urgently ask that I may not lose Franklin and his Division

1 McDowell's corps had been detached from McClellan's command in order to bolster the defenses near Washington.

G B. McClellan

Maj General

From George B. McClellan to Abraham Lincoln, April 6, 1862

Received apl 6

4 PM

Fort Monroe, Apl 6th

11. AM

Head Quarters, Army of the Potomac —

The order forming new Departments,1 if rapidly enforced, deprives me of the power of ordering up wagons & troops absolutely necessary to enable me to advance to Richmond— I have by no means, the transportation I must have to move my army even a few miles. I respectfully request I may not be placed in this position, but that my orders for wagon trains, ammunition, and other material that I have prepared and necessarily left behind, as well as Woodburys2 brigade, may at once be complied with— The Enemy is strong in my front, and I have a most serious task before me — in the fulfillment of which I need all the aid the Government can give me. I again repeat the urgent request, that Gen. Franklin and his Division may be restored to my Command3

1 On April 4, the Department of the Rappahannock was created under the command of General McDowell and the Department of the Shenandoah was re-created under the command of General Banks. On June 26, these departments were merged into the Army of Virginia under General Pope.

2 ID: Daniel P. Woodbury was a West Point graduate and career officer who served in the engineers. Woodbury was promoted to brigadier general of volunteers in March 1862 and commanded the engineer brigade under McClellan during the Peninsula Campaign. Woodbury also supervised the construction of the pontoon bridges across the Rappahannock during the Fredericksburg campaign. In March 1863 Woodbury was given command at Key West and he remained there until he died of yellow fever on August 15, 1864.

3 For Lincoln's reply, see Collected Works, V, 182.

G. B. McClellan,

Maj Genl.

From Andrew H. Foote to Gideon Welles, April 7, 1862

Steamer Benton, Off Island No. 10.

April 7th Via Cairo, 8th

3.25 A. M.

Two officers have this instant boarded us from Island No. 10, stating that by order of their commanding officer they are ordered to surrender Island No 10 to the Commodore commanding the gun boats. As these officers know nothing of the batteries on the Tennessee shore I have sent Capt. Phelps to ascertain something definite on the subject. I will telegraph when further information is received. With Gen. Pope now advancing from New Madrid in strong force to attack in rear, I am with the gun and mortar boats ready to attack in front while Gen. Buford1 here is ready to co-operate with the land forces, but it seems as if the place is to be surrendered without further defence.

1 ID: Napoleon B. Buford was a West Point graduate but he resigned his commission in 1835 to pursue business interests. At the outbreak of the Civil War Buford became colonel of the 27th Illinois and was promoted to brigadier general in April 1862. Buford saw action at Belmont, Island No. 10 and Corinth. From September 1863 until the end of the war Buford was commander of the District of East Arkansas.

A. H. Foote,

Flag Officer

Comdg Naval Forces Western Waters

From George B. McClellan to Abraham Lincoln, April 7, 1862

Washington, D. C., April 7 1862.

Head quarters

Army of Potomac

Front of Yorktown, Apl 7th

Your Telegram of yesterday received.1 In reply, I have the honor to state that my entire force for duty, only amounts to about eighty five thousand men. Genl Wools command, as you will observe from the accompanying order, has been taken out of my control, although he has most cheerfully cooperated with me. The only use that can be made of his command, is to protect my communication in rear of this point at this time only fifty three thousand men have joined me, but they are coming up as rapidly as my means of transportation will permit. Please rafer to my Dispatch to Hon E M Stanton Secy of War, of tonight, for the details of our present situation

1 In his April 6 telegram to McClellan, Lincoln suggested that the general break the enemy line at Yorktown with the 100,000 men under his command. See Collected Works, V, 182.

G. B. McClellan

Maj Ganl