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<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-01'>Sunday, December 1, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington,
DC</place>. </dateline>
<p> Sen. Sumner (Mass.) consults again with President
on "Trent" affair. <bibl default='NO'>Pierce, <title corresp='books_Pierce'>Sumner Memoir
and Letters</title>, 4:52.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Lincoln explains his ideas of
compensated emancipation in talk with Sen. Browning (Ill.). <bibl default='NO'>Browning,
<title corresp='books_Browning'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Completes work
on first Annual Message to Congress. <bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 2
December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Sends memorandum on movement of Army of Potomac
to Gen. McClellan. <bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A85' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Memorandum
to George B. McClellan on Potomac Campaign</xref>, [c. 1 December 1861],
<title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:34-35.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-02'>Monday, December 2, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Cabinet meets. "President's conservative policy is sustained by his
Cabinet with entire unanimity."
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 3 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Justices of Supreme Court call on President.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 3 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
At 2 P.M. Joint Committee announces to President that Congress is
ready to receive communications. Lincoln informs them that Annual
Message will be communicated to Congress tomorrow.
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Star, 2 December 1861; <title>Senate Journal</title>, 6.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
President empowers Gen. Halleck, commanding at St. Louis, "to suspend
the Writ of Habeas Corpus within the limits of the military division."
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A86' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Henry W. Halleck</xref>, 2 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:35.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-03'>Tuesday, December 3, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President communicates Annual Message to Congress: "In the midst of
unprecedented political troubles, we have cause of great gratitude to
God for unusual good health, and most abundant harvests. . . . A
disloyal portion of the American people have, during the whole year,
been engaged in an attempt to divide and destroy the Union. . . . The
Union must be preserved, and hence, all indispensable means must be
employed. We should not be in haste to determine that radical and
extreme measures, which may reach the loyal as well as the disloyal,
are indispensable. The inaugural address at the beginning of the
Administration, and the message to Congress at the late special
session, were both mainly devoted to the domestic controversy out of
which the insurrection and consequent war have sprung. Nothing now
occurs to add or subtract, to or from, the principles or general
purposes stated and expressed in those documents. . . . 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. . . . The struggle of today, is not altogether for
today—it is for a vast future also." ["Schedule A" printed with
Annual Message contains report on President's form letter to
chaplains. See also Lincoln to Magrath, October 30, 1861.]
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A87' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Annual Message to Congress</xref>, 3 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:35-54.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-04'>Wednesday, December 4, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington,
DC</place>. </dateline>
<p> President confers with Sen. James Harlan (Iowa) and
Sen. Browning (Ill.) about military appointments. <bibl default='NO'>Browning,
<title corresp='books_Browning'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Thanks Mrs.
Susannah Weathers of Rossville, Ind., for pair of socks and infers that "an
uncle of mine by marriage was a relative of yours." <bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A98' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
Lincoln to Mrs. Susannah Weathers</xref>, 4 December 1861,
<title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:57.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Interviews
Alexander T. Galt, minister of finance for Canada, regarding uneasiness in
Canada over possible aggressive designs of U.S. <bibl default='NO'>Fred Landon, "Canadian
Appreciation of Abraham Lincoln," <title>Abraham Lincoln Quarterly</title> 3
(September 1945):167.</bibl>
</p>
<p> With <person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs.
Lincoln</person> attends presentation of colors by Sen. Harris (N.Y.) to Harris
Light Cavalry near Arlington, Va. <bibl default='NO'>Russell, <title corresp='books_Russell'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Authorizes Sec. Seward
to answer request of Methodist ministers of California for permission to attend
convention at New Orleans. <bibl default='NO'>McDougall to Lincoln, 3 December 1861, Robert
Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress,
Washington, DC.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Visits Asst. Sec. Fox in evening to consult on
navy affairs. <bibl default='NO'>Fox, Diary, Gist-Blair Family Papers, Library of Congress,
Washington, DC.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Transmits to House of Representatives report
relative to correspondence with foreign nations on rights of blockade,
privateering, and "recognition of the so called Confederate States," and report
"upon the subject of increasing and extending trade and commerce of the United
States with Foreign Countries." <bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A94' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
Lincoln to the House of Representatives</xref>, 4 December 1861,
<title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:55-56.</bibl>
</p>
<p> [Harness
account charged 38¢ for "whip thong." <bibl default='NO'>
<title>Lutz Account
Book</title>.</bibl>] </p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-05'>Thursday, December 5, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President and Secs. Cameron and Seward receive Col. David B. Birney's
23d Philadelphia Zouaves after their parade.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 6 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Lincoln proclaims treaty with Arapaho and Cheyenne Indians.
<bibl default='NO'>National Intelligencer, 11 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Interviews Mrs. John Nininger, sister of Gov. Alexander Ramsey
(Minn.), who wants son appointed to Naval Academy, Newport, R.I.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A104' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Gideon Welles</xref>, 5 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:59.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Receives November salary warrant for $2,083.34.
<bibl default='NO'>Pratt, <title corresp='books_Pratt3'>Personal Finances</title>, 182.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Transmits to Senate treaty with King of Hanover "concerning the
abolition of the Stade or Brunshausen Dues" [tolls levied on vessels
ascending River Elbe and passing mouth of Schwinge River].
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A101' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, 5 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:58.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-06'>Friday, December 6, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Cabinet considers report of secretary of treasury.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 6 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Lincoln interviews David L. Phillips, marshal of southern Illinois,
regarding arrests of secessionists.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A106' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Simon Cameron</xref>, 6 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:59.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Receives Capt. Kennedy's Artillery Company from Auburn, N.Y.,
accompanied by Sec. Seward.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 7 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Interviews Capt. Francis G. Young of late Col. Baker's California
regiment and gives him letter to Gen. McClellan.
<bibl default='NO'>Young to Lincoln, 7 December 1861, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC; <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A109' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan</xref>, 6 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:60.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Library of Congress lends copy of "Musäus, Volksmärchen" to
White House. [Johann Karl August Musäus, Volksmärchen der
Deutschen, Leipzig, 1842.]
<bibl default='NO'>Borrowers' Ledger 1861-63, 114, Archives of the Library of Congress, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-07'>Saturday, December 7, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President recognizes Pedro Pablo Ortiz as vice consul of Republic of
Chile for port of New York.
<bibl default='NO'>National Intelligencer, 10 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Lt. Barstow of Gen. Dix's staff delivers to Lincoln Japanese sword
reported stolen in Baltimore.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 8 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
<person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs. Lincoln</person> holds morning reception.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 8 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-08'>Sunday, December 8, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President approves idea of telegraph line from Washington to Fortress
Monroe, Va. New York interests are advocating submarine line to
Hatteras, N.C., Port Royal, S.C., Key West, Fla., and Fort Pickens,
Fla.
<bibl default='NO'>N.Y. Tribune, 9 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-09'>Monday, December 9, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Lincoln receives memorial from meeting at Church of the Puritans
asking release of Rev. George Gordon, president of Iberia College,
Ohio.
<bibl default='NO'>N.Y. Tribune, 10 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Transmits to House of Representatives report "relative to the
intervention of certain European Powers in the affairs of Mexico."
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A112' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the House of Representatives</xref>, 9 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:61.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Inquires of Gen. McClellan: "Is it true that [Gen. John M.] Schofield
is, or is to be ordered East? My expectation & wish was for him
to remain in Mo. Please answer."
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A113' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan</xref>, 9 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:61-62.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-10'>Tuesday, December 10, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington,
DC</place>. </dateline>
<p> Cabinet meets. New York deputation, consisting of
Judge Henry E. Davies, New York Court of Appeals, and Messrs. Richard O'Gorman,
New York lawyer, and Savage (probably James W.), argues importance of exchange
of prisoners. Gen. Hunter's application to muster brigade of Indians dropped.
Sec. Chase to discuss organization of courts at Beaufort, S.C., with Atty. Gen.
Bates and make recommendation. <bibl default='NO'>Donald, <title corresp='books_Donald'>Chase Diaries</title>, 48-50.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Lincoln
drafts dispatch concerning "Trent" affair in reply to Lord John Russell,
British Secretary for Foreign Affairs. <bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A116' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Draft
of a Dispatch in Reply to Lord John Russell Concerning the <ship teiForm='name'>Trent</ship>
Affair</xref>, [10? December 1861], <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>,
5:62-64.</bibl>
</p>
<p> President and <person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs.
Lincoln</person> attend evening wedding of Capt. Charles Griffin and Sally
Carroll, daughter of William T. Carroll, clerk of Supreme Court. <bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Herald</title>, 11 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-11'>Wednesday, December 11, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President interviews Rabbi Arnold Fischel of New York regarding
appointment of Jewish chaplains for army.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Herald</title>, 13 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Sens. Browning (Ill.) and Trumbull (Ill.) escort Lincoln to Senate
Chamber for proceedings marking death of Sen. Baker (Oreg.). "Visits
of the President to either House of Congress are of rare occurrence.
This is the first instance of the kind certainly within the past
quarter of a century."
<bibl default='NO'>Browning, <title corresp='books_Browning'>Diary</title>; <title>N.Y. Times</title>, 12 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
"The President of the United States having entered the Senate
chamber, he was conducted to the chair of the Vice-President."
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>Senate Journal</title>, 38.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Lincoln receives account of funeral services for Baker in San
Francisco by telegraph.
<bibl default='NO'>Deverett to Lincoln, 11 December 1861, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Restates original purpose of his Administration: 1. to regard Union
as unbroken; 2. to restore national laws over seceded states as
rapidly as possible; 3. to protect lives and property of all citizens
in seceded states who have not engaged in rebellion.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 12 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-12'>Thursday, December 12, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President in cabinet meeting, unable to see Rabbi Fischel as arranged
yesterday.
<bibl default='NO'>Bertram W. Korn, <title>American Jewry and the Civil War</title> (Philadelphia, PA: Jewish Publication Society of America, 1951), 70.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Hiram Barney introduces George Bancroft to President and <person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs. Lincoln</person>.
<bibl default='NO'>Mark Howe, <title>The Life and Letters of George Bancroft</title>, 2 vols. (New York: Scribner, 1908), 2:143.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
President wishes Rev. George H. Stuart, chairman of U.S. Christian
Commission, success in "your christian and benevolent undertaking for
the benefit of the soldiers."
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A126' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to George H. Stuart</xref>, 12 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:67.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Joins Gen. Totten at military armament board to examine inventions in
gun carriages.
<bibl default='NO'>Totten to Lincoln, 13 December 1861, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Writes Gen. Curtis: "I snatch a moment to both thank you, and
apologize to you." Thanks him for executing trusts and apologizes for
publication of Totten's report on conditions in Missouri containing
confidential interviews with Curtis.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A122' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Samuel R. Curtis</xref>, 12 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:65-66.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Writes Sec. Seward asking him to look at resolution in House of Representatives of Dec. 9 by Cong. Clement Vallandigham (Ohio) and "mention in Cabinet to-morrow."
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A125' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to William H. Seward</xref>, 12 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:66.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-13'>Friday, December 13, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington,
DC</place>. </dateline>
<p> Officers of New York Irish Brigade call at White
House and present petition to President requesting promotion of Col. Thomas F.
Meagher. <bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 14 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
White House borrows "Newton's Display and Heraldry" from Library of Congress.
[William Newton, Display of Heraldry, London, 1846.] <bibl default='NO'>Borrowers' Ledger
1861-63, 114, Archives of the Library of Congress, Library of Congress,
Washington, DC.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Writes note on photographs of members of
Cabinet: "These likenesses, so far as I know the originals, are very good."
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A130' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Note
on Photographs of Members of Lincoln's Cabinet</xref>, 13 December 1861,
<title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:68.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Prepares
pardon: "This may be his [Maj. John Pope (CSA)] full pardon for all political
offenses" committed prior to January 1, 1862, provided he leaves ranks of
rebellion and thereafter does nothing against government of U.S. <bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A132' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
Lincoln to Whom It May Concern</xref>, 13 December 1861,
<title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:68-69.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-14'>Saturday, December 14, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Lincoln informs Rabbi Fischel: "I shall try to have a new law broad
enough to cover what is desired by you in behalf of the Israelites."
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A133' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Arnold Fischel</xref>, 14 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:69.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
President recognizes Carl F. Adac as consul of Grand Duchy of
Mecklenburg-Strelitz for Western U.S.
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Star, 19 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Sends to Senate copies of documents in case of Col. Dixon S. Miles
accused of drunkenness at Bull Run.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A136' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, 14 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:70.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
<person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs. Lincoln</person> holds reception from 1 to 3 P.M.
<bibl default='NO'>National Intelligencer, 14 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-15'>Sunday, December 15, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Lincoln studies plans prepared by Cyrus W. Field, promoter of
Atlantic cable, for laying submarine cables to link Washington with
principal forts as far south as Key West, Fla.
<bibl default='NO'>Field to Lincoln, 14 December 1861, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Sen. Browning (Ill.) and Coleman C. Sympson, Senate clerk, call on
President at 5 P.M. Browning remains for tea.
<bibl default='NO'>Browning, <title corresp='books_Browning'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Sec. Seward arrives at White House, while Lincoln and friends are
having tea, alarmed over news that Great Britain considers capture of
Mason and Slidell violation of international law.
<bibl default='NO'>Monaghan, <title corresp='books_Monaghan'>Diplomat</title>, 186-87.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-16'>Monday, December 16, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Hiram Barney confers with Lincoln about appointing Sec. Chase to
succeed Chief Justice Taney, and Barney to succeed Chase as secretary
of treasury.
<bibl default='NO'>James N. Adams, "Lincoln and Hiram Barney," <title>Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society</title> 50 (Winter 1957):360.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Lincoln drafts letter to Senate for signature of Marshal Lamon
regarding admission of slaves to District jail.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A141' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Draft of Letter to the Senate Prepared for Ward H. Lamon</xref>, [16 December 1861], <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:72.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Meets Sen. Chandler (Mich.) and Gen. Heintzelman on way to Seward's
house. Heintzelman inquires about appointment for son to Military
Academy. Lincoln suggests making application. At Seward's house
President sends for Gen. McClellan.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>Journal</title>, Samuel P. Heintzelman Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Submits to Senate for consideration amendments to treaty of peace,
friendship, commerce, and navigation concluded May 13, 1858, with
Bolivia.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A143' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, 16 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:72-73.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-17'>Tuesday, December 17, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Committee from New York Chamber of Commerce consults with Lincoln and
Secs. Seward and Chase regarding armed vessels in foreign seas to
protect Union commerce against rebel privateers.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 18 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
First White House public reception of season from 8 to 10:30 P.M.
<bibl default='NO'>National Intelligencer, 17 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
President transmits to Senate for its advice draft for convention
with Republic of Mexico.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A146' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, 17 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:73-74.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Sends to Congress copies of correspondence with governor of Maine on
subject of fortification of seacoast and lakes.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A147' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate and House of Representatives</xref>, 17 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:74.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-18'>Wednesday, December 18, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>. </dateline>
<p> President and cabinet discuss
informally "Trent" affair. <bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 19 December
1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Congs. Colfax (Ind.) and Reuben E. Fenton (N.Y.) urge
Lincoln to get army into action or find way to offset hostile public sentiment.
<bibl default='NO'>Rice, 74.</bibl>
</p>
<p> President, accompanied by Sec. Seward and
<person key='ST16686' teiForm='name'>Edwin M. Stanton</person> , legal adviser to Sec.
Cameron, watches seamen drill at Navy Yard. <bibl default='NO'>Extracts from Dahlgren Diary,
John G. Nicolay Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Congratulates Alexander II, Emperor and Autocrat of all the Russias, on birth
of son to Grand Duchess Olga Teodorowra. <bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A148' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
Lincoln to Alexander II</xref>, 18 December 1861,
<title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:74-75.</bibl>
</p>
<p> At 9:30
P.M. with John Hay walks to Seward's residence for conference, then with Seward
to Gen. McClellan's house, where they discuss war until midnight. <bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Herald</title>, 19 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-19'>Thursday, December 19, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President receives Gen. James B. Ricketts, wounded and captured at
Bull Run [Manassas], released on parole, accompanied by wife.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 20 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Orders purchase of 50 "Coffee Mill" guns at $735 each.
<bibl default='NO'>Bruce, <title corresp='books_Bruce'>Tools of War</title>, 123; <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A152' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to James W. Ripley</xref>, 19 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:75-76.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
In evening Sen. Browning (Ill.) converses with Lincoln and they call
on Gen. McClellan.
<bibl default='NO'>Browning, <title corresp='books_Browning'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-20'>Friday, December 20, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Recent report shows President has made 650 appointments of all kinds
since August 27, 1861. Thirty-one officers have been honorably
retired, and 215 promoted.
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 21 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
President sends to Congress committee report on industrial exhibition
to be held in London in 1862.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A157' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate and House of Representatives</xref>, 20 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:77.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-21'>Saturday, December 21, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President interviews wife of 1st Lt. Robert F. Hunter on behalf of
husband courtmartialed and cashiered for drunkenness on duty.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A158' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to John F. Lee</xref>, 21 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:78.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
In afternoon drives with several friends to Anacostia River near Navy
Yard to watch army engineers throw 500-foot pontoon bridge across
cove. "The President was invited to ride over, and immediately
ordered his carriage to be driven across, remarking that if he should
get overboard he could wade ashore."
<bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Herald</title>, 22 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Sen. Browning (Ill.) in long conference with President discusses: 1.
"Trent" affair; 2. treaty with Mexico; 3. Rothschild offer of loan.
Later they visit Gen. and Mrs. McClellan.
<bibl default='NO'>Browning, <title corresp='books_Browning'>Diary</title>; Monaghan, <title corresp='books_Monaghan'>Diplomat</title>, 190.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-22'>Sunday, December 22, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Lincolns attend New York Avenue Presbyterian Church and drive Sen.
Browning (Ill.) home.
<bibl default='NO'>Browning, <title corresp='books_Browning'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-23'>Monday, December 23, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President signs bill to increase efficiency of navy, and bill to
raise duty on tea, sugar, coffee, and molasses.
<bibl default='NO'>N.Y. Tribune, 24 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Transmits to House of Representatives report of secretary of state
respecting Asiatic coolie trade.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A162' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the House of Representatives</xref>, 23 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:79.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Secs. Seward, Welles, and Chase call at White House to confer on
"Trent" affair. Sen. Sumner (Mass.) urges Lincoln to surrender Mason
and Slidell.
<bibl default='NO'>Monaghan, <title corresp='books_Monaghan'>Diplomat</title>, 190-91.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
[Irwin withdraws $99 from Springfield Marine Bank.
<bibl default='NO'>Pratt, <title corresp='books_Pratt3'>Personal Finances</title>, 177.</bibl>]
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-24'>Tuesday, December 24, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington,
DC</place>. </dateline>
<p> President approves act authorizing allotment
certificates for volunteers. <bibl default='NO'>Stat. L., XII, 331.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Endorses
letter of Robert J. Breckenridge, Danville, Ky., who opposed him for Presidency
in 1860 campaign: "I have before said, and now repeat, I would like Dr.
Breckenridges son to be appointed as soon as he consistently can." <bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A163' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
Lincoln to Simon Cameron</xref>, 24 December 1861,
<title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:79.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-25'>Wednesday, December 25, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Cabinet meets 10 A.M. behind closed doors to consider release of
Mason and Slidell, involved in "Trent" affair. Meeting lasts until 2
P.M.
<bibl default='NO'>Bates, <title corresp='books_Bates3'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Sen. Sumner (Mass.) on invitation reads letters from Richard Cobden
and John Bright of England to cabinet urging release of men. French
minister appears before cabinet and requests President to give up men
and avert war.
<bibl default='NO'>Monaghan, <title corresp='books_Monaghan'>Diplomat</title>, 191.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Cabinet adjourns to meet next day and make decision. President
concludes: "Governor Seward, you will go on, of course, preparing
your answer, which, as I understand, will state the reasons why they
ought to be given up."
<bibl default='NO'>Frederick W. Seward, <title>Reminiscences of a War-Time Statesman and Diplomat, 1830-1915. By Frederick W. Seward, Assistant Secretary of State during the Administrations of Lincoln, Johnson, and Hayes</title> (New York: Putnam, 1916), 189.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
At Christmas dinner in evening Lincolns entertain large number of
guests, including several members of official family and old friends
from Kentucky and Illinois.
<bibl default='NO'>Browning, <title corresp='books_Browning'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
After dinner President tells Sen. Browning (Ill.) that "Trent" affair
has been settled amicably.
<bibl default='NO'>Randall, <title corresp='books_Randall1'>Lincoln</title>, 2:49.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-26'>Thursday, December 26, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Cabinet meets and approves reasons for surrender of Mason and Slidell.
<bibl default='NO'>Frederick W. Seward, <title>Reminiscences of a War-Time Statesman and Diplomat, 1830-1915. By Frederick W. Seward, Assistant Secretary of State during the Administrations of Lincoln, Johnson, and Hayes</title> (New York: Putnam, 1916), 189.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
President directs Chief of Ordnance to order 10,000 Spencer repeating rifles.
<bibl default='NO'>Bruce, <title corresp='books_Bruce'>Tools of War</title>, 116.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-27'>Friday, December 27, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President approves bill providing for three commissioners for each
state to visit camps and expedite allotment of soldiers' pay.
<bibl default='NO'>N.Y. Tribune, 28 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Sec. Welles shows President letter from George D. Morgan, purchasing
agent for navy, under attack by Joint Committee on Conduct of War.
<bibl default='NO'>Welles to Morgan, 31 December 1861, Gideon Welles Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Lincoln takes trip to Craney Island. "I took the President on board
the 'Pensacola' for her second trial trip. No one else was with us,
so we had a quiet time. The President looks grave and absorbed, and a
little the worse for cares. It was late when we reached the anchorage
off Alexandria."
<bibl default='NO'>Extracts from Dahlgren Diary, John G. Nicolay Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC; Bruce, <title corresp='books_Bruce'>Tools of War</title>, 21.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Lincoln tells Sen. Sumner (Mass.) that he is preparing an
emancipation doctrine.
<bibl default='NO'>Charles Sumner, <title>Charles Sumner, His Complete Works</title>, 20 vols., with an introduction by George Frisbie Hoar (Boston: Lee and Shepard, 1900), 8:14.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-28'>Saturday, December 28, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
Lincoln inquires of Sec. Seward: "Might we not let Gov. Moorehead
loose?" [Former Gov. Morehead (Ky.) was released January 6, 1862.]
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A171' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to William H. Seward</xref>, 28 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:81.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Asks Gen. Totten: "Do we have need of the property this good old
patriot so kindly offers us?" [Philip Winebiddle offered land at
Erie, Pa., or Pittsburgh as armory site.]
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A172' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Joseph G. Totten</xref>, 28 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:81.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
<person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs. Lincoln</person> holds afternoon reception.
<bibl default='NO'>N.Y. Tribune, 31 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-29'>Sunday, December 29, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington,
DC</place>. </dateline>
<p> Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside arrives in Washington and
spends most of day in consultation with President and Gen. McClellan. <bibl default='NO'>
<title>N.Y. Times</title>, 30 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p> President and
Burnside call on Asst. Sec. Fox in morning. President calls again in evening.
<bibl default='NO'>Fox, Diary, Gist-Blair Family Papers, Library of Congress, Washington,
DC.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Sen. Browning (Ill.) with Lincoln at White House from 5
P.M. until church time. <bibl default='NO'>Browning, <title corresp='books_Browning'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
</p>
<p> Lincoln spends early
part of evening with Cong. Alfred Ely (N.Y.) who was captured at Manassas and
spent six months in Richmond prison. <bibl default='NO'>N.Y. Tribune, 30 December
1861.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-30'>Monday, December 30, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President names New York commission to assist volunteers in sending
home their pay.
<bibl default='NO'>N.Y. Tribune, 30 December 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Disregards Presidential etiquette and joins party in progress when he
makes call on Sec. Chase.
<bibl default='NO'>Pierce, <title corresp='books_Pierce'>Sumner Memoir and Letters</title>, 4:60.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Borrows from Library of Congress "U.S. Constitution 1783" and "U.S.
Constitution 1856."
<bibl default='NO'>Borrowers' Ledger 1861-63, 114, Archives of the Library of Congress, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
[Irwin withdraws $9 from Springfield Marine Bank for payment of
interest on scholarship, Illinois State University.
<bibl default='NO'>Pratt, <title corresp='books_Pratt3'>Personal Finances</title>, 177.</bibl>]
</p>
<p>
President transmits to Congress correspondence between secretary of
state and authorities of Great Britain and France regarding "Trent"
affair.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A176' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate and House of Representatives</xref>, 30 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:82-83.</bibl>
</p>
</div2>
<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
<dateline>
<date value='1861-12-31'>Tuesday, December 31, 1861.</date>
<place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
<p>
President confers for one hour and a half with the Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A190' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan</xref>, 1 January 1862, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:88.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Answers "ugly" letter of Gen. Hunter.
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A181' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to David Hunter</xref>, 31 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:84-85.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Listens to serenades from four bands in evening.
<bibl default='NO'>N.Y. Tribune, 1 January 1861.</bibl>
</p>
<p>
Sends similar dispatches to Gen. Halleck and Gen. Don C. Buell:
"General McClellan is sick. Are General Buell and yourself in
concert? When he moves on Bowling Green, what hinders it being
re-enforced from Columbus? A simultaneous movement by you on Columbus
might prevent it"
<bibl default='NO'>
<xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln5;node=lincoln5%3A180' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Henry W. Halleck and Don C. Buell</xref>, 31 December 1861, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 5:84.</bibl>
</p>
</div2> |
