Sec. Stanton at White House early with report from Gen. McClellan on military operations. Stanton to McClellan, 8 April 1862, George B. McClellan Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

Postmaster Gen. Blair discusses McClellan's conduct with President and writes: "I can see that the President thinks you are not sufficiently confident, and it disturbs him." Blair to McClellan, 9 April 1862, George B. McClellan Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

Lincoln writes to Major General George B. McClellan regarding their differences over the number of troops the General needs to advance on the enemy, and over the number of troops needed to defend Washington, D. C. Lincoln argues that it will take more than "twenty thousand unorganized men" to defend the capital. He reminds McClellan, "The country will not fail to note—is now noting—that the present hesitation to move upon an entrenched enemy, is but the story of Manassas repeated." Lincoln adds that he supports McClellan, "Butyoumustact." Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 9 April 1862, CW, 5:184-85.

Sen. Browning (Ill.) visits White House in evening and goes with President to War Dept. for latest news. Browning, Diary.

Lincoln sends directions to Gen. Halleck: "If the rigor of the confinement of [Col.] Magoffin at Alton is endangering his life, or materially impairing his health, I wish it mitigated so far as it can be, consistently with his safe detention." Abraham Lincoln to Henry W. Halleck, 9 April 1862, CW, 5:183-84.