President sends revised answer to Senate resolution regarding arrest of Gen. Stone. Abraham Lincoln to the Senate, 1 May 1862, CW, 5:204.

Writes Gen. Halleck: "I am pressed by the Missouri members of Congress to give General Schofield independent command in Missouri. . . . Please answer, telling me whether anything, and what, I can do for them without injuriously interfering with you." Abraham Lincoln to Henry W. Halleck, 1 May 1862, CW, 5:203.

Admonishes Gen. McClellan: "Your call for Parrott guns from Washington alarms me—chiefly because it argues indefinite procrastination. Is anything to be done?" Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 1 May 1862, CW, 5:203-4.

Transmits to Senate petition and auditor's report relative to goods advanced by citizens of Oregon and Washington Territory during Indian uprising in 1855-56. Abraham Lincoln to the Senate, 1 May 1862, CW, 5:204-5.

In evening Sen. Browning (Ill.) spends hour in family room with Lincoln who has headache. Browning, Diary.

Committee of local citizens accompanied by Sen. Joseph A. Wright (Ind.) confers with President on appointment of George W. Garrett as warden of penitentiary. Memorandum: Appointment of George W. Garrett, 3 May 1862, CW, 5:205.

President and Mrs. Lincoln at Navy Yard in afternoon to watch trials of breech-loading cannon made by James C. C. Holenshade, Cincinnati promoter. Bruce, Tools of War, 185; N.Y. Herald, 4 May 1862.

[Irwin withdraws $1,000, interest-free loan to himself, from Springfield Marine Bank. Pratt, Personal Finances, 177.]

President receives news that Confederates have evacuated Yorktown, Va. Nicolay to Bates, 4 May 1862, John G. Nicolay Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

Lt. Worden, eyesight still impaired from wound received in battle, calls on President. Washington Star, 6 May 1862.

Samuel Strong, inventor, displays his breechloading carbine at White House. Bruce, Tools of War, 188.

Lincoln interviews Lt. Col. G. Montagu Hicks and orders his appointment as aide-de-camp to Gen. Wool with rank of colonel. Hicks to Lincoln, 22 May 1862, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

About dusk President, Secs. Stanton and Chase, and several others leave Navy Yard on board revenue cutter "Miami" for Fortress Monroe. Spend night on Potomac 15 miles below Alexandria, Va. Nicolay to Bates, 9 May 1862, John G. Nicolay Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC; Flower, Stanton, 154.

Receives April salary warrant for $2,083.33. Pratt, Personal Finances, 182.

Presidential party spends day on journey down river. Docks at 10 P.M. After brief conference with Gen. Wool, commanding at Fortress Monroe, Lincoln visits flagship of Flag Officer Goldsborough. Flower, Stanton, 154.

Makes trip to flagship near midnight in tugboat. Returns to revenue cutter "Miami" for night. Chester D. Bradley, "President Lincoln's Campaign against the Merrimac," Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society 51 (Spring 1958):77; William E. Baringer, "On Enemy Soil: President Lincoln's Norfolk Campaign," Abraham Lincoln Quarterly 7 (March 1952):8-10.

Presidential party arises early and rows out to board yacht "Vanderbilt" before breakfast. After 9 A.M. breakfast with Gen. Wool in Quarters No. 1 Lincoln goes aboard U.S.S. "Monitor" and U.S.S. "Stevens," then visits Fort Wool, Va. Returns to Fortress Monroe, Va., for conference with Flag Officer Goldsborough. In afternoon rides horseback to view ruins of town of Hampton, Va., burned by Confederates, and to review troops at Camp Hamilton, Va. Sends message to Goldsborough to send U.S.S. "Galena" and two other gunboats up James River if they can be spared. Holds conference in Wool's quarters and spends night. Chester D. Bradley, "President Lincoln's Campaign against the Merrimac," Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society 51 (Spring 1958):78-80; William E. Baringer, "On Enemy Soil: President Lincoln's Norfolk Campaign," Abraham Lincoln Quarterly 7 (March 1952):11-13; Abraham Lincoln to Louis M. Goldsborough, 7 May 1862, CW, 5:207.

"Library of the Executive Mansion" orders books from William F. Richstein, bookseller and dealer in foreign and American stationery, 278 Pennsylvania Ave. "1 set Hood's Poems $6.50, 1 Goldsmiths Poems $5.00, 1 Homes of American Authors $6.00." [Thomas Hood, Poems; Oliver Goldsmith, Poems; Homes of American Authors: Comprising Anecdotical, Personal, and Descriptive Sketches, by Various Writers . . ., New York, 1853.] Last item is paid for by President; others out of annual appropriation of $250 for books for White House per Benjamin B. French, Commissioner of Public Buildings. Pratt, Personal Finances, 180.

President consults with Flag Officer Goldsborough at Fortress Monroe, Va., on attempt to land troops on Sewell's Point under cover of navy fire. Lincoln, with Secs. Chase and Stanton , goes to Fort Wool, Va., to watch action. Later from tugboat stationed mile behind gunboats watches shelling of Sewell's Point and Craney Island all afternoon. Chester D. Bradley, "President Lincoln's Campaign against the Merrimac," Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society 51 (Spring 1958):80; William E. Baringer, "On Enemy Soil: President Lincoln's Norfolk Campaign," Abraham Lincoln Quarterly 7 (March 1952):13-18.

President takes cruise around Hampton Roads in revenue cutter "Miami." Holds conference at Fortress Monroe, Va., and decides to send force against Norfolk under Gen. Wool. Reads from Shakespeare to Col. Cannon during day. At dinner converses with Wool about plan to take Norfolk. Wool remarks: "If you stay here 48 hours, I will present Norfolk to you." Lincoln and Sec. Stanton use tugboat in searching for possible landing places whence to begin march on Norfolk. About 2 P.M. crosses to place selected for landing, about one mile below Fort Wool, Va. Lincoln goes ashore. Returns to Fortress Monroe where troops are embarking. Washington Star, 12 May 1862; Boston Advertiser, 12 May 1862; Chester D. Bradley, "President Lincoln's Campaign against the Merrimac," Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society 51 (Spring 1958):80-83; LeGrand B. Cannon, Personal Reminiscences of the Rebellion, 1861-1866 (New York: Burr Print. House, 1895), 157-59, 172-75; William E. Baringer, "On Enemy Soil: President Lincoln's Norfolk Campaign," Abraham Lincoln Quarterly 7 (March 1952):18, 25.

President assists Stanton in framing dispatch to Gen. McClellan relating to army corps, and writes directly: "Do the Commanders of Corps disobey your orders in anything? . . . are you strong enough, even with my help—to set your foot upon the necks of Sumner, Heintzelman, and Keyes all at once?" Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 9 May 1862, CW, 5:207-8; Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 9 May 1862, CW, 5:208-9.

[Gen. Hunter, commanding Dept. of South, issues General Orders No. 11 freeing slaves in South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, without informing President. (See May 19, 1862.) Proclamation Revoking General Hunter's Order of Military Emancipation of May 9, 1862, 19 May 1862, CW, 5:222-24.]

President and Secs. Chase and Stanton accompany Gen. Wool to landing place near Willoughby Point where troops begin march to Norfolk. Lincoln and Stanton return to Fortress Monroe, Va. Chase goes to Norfolk with Wool. Chester D. Bradley, "President Lincoln's Campaign against the Merrimac," Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society 51 (Spring 1958):83.

President remains in Fortress Monroe all day. William E. Baringer, "On Enemy Soil: President Lincoln's Norfolk Campaign," Abraham Lincoln Quarterly 7 (March 1952):18-24.

Discovers that troops commanded by Col. Joseph B. Carr and Gen. Mansfield are not taking part in attack on Norfolk. Infuriated he bounces his tall hat off the floor and dictates orders involving these troops. Battles and Leaders of the Civil War: Being for the Most Part Contributions by Union and Confederate Officers, 4 vols. (1884-1887; reprint, with a new introduction by Roy F. Nichols, New York: T. Yoseloff, 1956), 2:152.

Retires to bed between 9 and 10 P.M. in Quarters No. 1. LeGrand B. Cannon, Personal Reminiscences of the Rebellion, 1861-1866 (New York: Burr Print. House, 1895), 159-62.

At 11 P.M. Wool arrives and announces to President surrender and possession of Norfolk. Washington Star, 13 May 1862.

President writes Flag Officer Goldsborough: "You are quite right in supposing the movement made by you and therein reported was made in accordance with my wishes verbally expressed to you in advance." Abraham Lincoln to Louis M. Goldsborough, 10 May 1862, CW, 5:209.

Shortly before going aboard U.S.S. "Baltimore" about 5 A.M. for return trip to Washington, President receives news that Confederates have blown up "Merrimac." "Baltimore" passes spot of destruction off Craney Island and proceeds up Elizabeth River to Norfolk where Lincoln visits for an hour. President spends remainder of day and night on board ship. Chester D. Bradley, "President Lincoln's Campaign against the Merrimac," Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society 51 (Spring 1958):84-85; William E. Baringer, "On Enemy Soil: President Lincoln's Norfolk Campaign," Abraham Lincoln Quarterly 7 (March 1952):24-25.

President telegraphs Gen. Halleck: "Norfolk in our possession, Merrimac blown up, & Monitor & other boats going up James River to Richmond. Be very sure to sustain no reverse in your Department." Abraham Lincoln to Henry W. Halleck, 11 May 1862, CW, 5:210.

President arrives on U.S.S. "Baltimore" from Fortress Monroe, Va., and Norfolk. Washington Star, 12 May 1862.

Raises blockade proclaimed April 19, 1861, on Southern ports of Beaufort, S.C., Port Royal, S.C., and New Orleans as of June 1, 1862 pursuant to treasury regulations except for contraband of war. Proclamation Raising the Blockade of Certain Ports, 12 May 1862, CW, 5:210-11.

In conversation with Gen. Carl Schurz, Lincoln predicts that he will be left without support at next congressional election by Republicans and Democrats, by former because he is not radical enough and by latter because he is too radical. Schurz to Lincoln, 19 May 1862, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

In evening President visits Sec. Seward confined to bed by injuries received when thrown from carriage. George S. Bryan, The Great American Myth (New York: Carrick & Evans, 1940), 134.

At 11 A.M. Lincoln welcomes committee of General Synod of Evangelical Lutheran Church. National Intelligencer, 14 May 1862; Response to Evangelical Lutherans, 13 May 1862, CW, 5:212-13.

Addresses 12th Indiana Regiment: "I assure you that the nation is more indebted to you, and such as you, than to me." Washington Star, 14 May 1862; Speech to the Twelfth Indiana Regiment, 13 May 1862, CW, 5:213.

Thanks Abraham Hart, Philadelphia publisher and president of Congregation Hope of Israel, "for your expressions of kindness and confidence." Abraham Lincoln to Abraham Hart, 13 May 1862, CW, 5:212.

Mrs. Lincoln sends bouquet of White House flowers to Mrs. Fox. Fox, Diary, Gist-Blair Family Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

Recommends to Senate and House of Representatives "that Captain D. G. Farragut receive a vote of thanks of Congress for his services . . . since the 21st December, 1861," as well as "naval officers who commanded vessels engaged in the recent brilliant operations [on the lower Mississippi and capture of New Orleans] of the squadron commanded by Flag-Officer Farragut." Abraham Lincoln to the Senate and House of Representatives, 14 May 1862, CW, 5:214; Abraham Lincoln to the Senate and House of Representatives, 14 May 1862, CW, 5:214-15.

In evening tells Sen. Browning (Ill.) about trip to Fortress Monroe, Va. Browning, Diary.

President approves establishment of Dept. of Agriculture without cabinet status. Stat. L., XII, 387.

Writes Gen. McClellan: "Have done, and shall do, all I could and can to sustain you—hoped that the opening of James River, and putting Wool and Burnside in communication, with an open road to Richmond, or to you, had effected something in that direction. I am still unwilling to take all our force off the direct line between Richmond and here." Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 15 May 1862, CW, 5:216.

Refers to Union Volunteer Refreshment Saloon and Cooper Shop, Philadelphia establishments, in letter to Sen. Wilson (Mass.): "I know nothing of the facts myself, and could only say hypothetically, that if they have dealt so generously with our volunteers, as I have frequently heard, and believe, they are indeed worthy of all praise." Abraham Lincoln to Henry Wilson, 15 May 1862, CW, 5:217-18.

President transmits to Senate treaty with Kansas tribe of Indians. Abraham Lincoln to the Senate, [16] May 1862, CW, 5:218-19.

Orders that his thanks for capture of Norfolk be sent to Gen. Wool by War Dept. N.Y. Tribune, 17 May 1862.

Confers with Gen. Charles S. Hamilton recently relieved of command by Gen. McClellan, for reason that he is "not fit to command a Division." N.Y. Tribune, 17 May 1862; Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 21 May 1862, CW, 5:227.

President recognizes Christian Friedrich Mebius as consul at San Francisco of Free Hanse City of Lübeck. National Intelligencer, 21 May 1862.

Reviews with Sec. Stanton military situation in regard to Gen. McClellan's request for reinforcements. Gen. McDowell is to move toward Richmond and at same time keep approaches to Washington covered. Committee on Conduct of War, Report (1863), 1:273.

Orders McDowell to retain separate command, obey orders of McClellan while co-operating with him, and use own judgment in placing troops for greatest protection of capital. Abraham Lincoln to Irvin McDowell, [17 May 1862], CW, 5:219-20.

Writes Mary Motley, daughter of John L. Motley: "A friend of yours (a young gentleman of course) tells me you do me the honor of requesting my autograph. I could scarcely refuse any young lady—certainly not the daughter of your distinguished father." Abraham Lincoln to Mary Motley, 17 May 1862, CW, 5:220-21.

Asst. Sec. Fox informs Lincoln that gunboats in James River were repulsed eight miles from Richmond. Fox, Diary, Gist-Blair Family Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

In afternoon Lincoln confers with Sec. Stanton regarding Gen. McClellan's request for reinforcements. McClellan, War for Union, 345-46.

After 3 P.M. Sen. Browning (Ill.) and President visit soldiers in hospital at Columbia College. Browning, Diary.

President declares Gen. Hunter's General Orders No. 11 freeing slaves in Dept. of South void, and "that neither General Hunter, nor any other commander, or person, has been authorized by the Government of the United States, to make proclamations declaring the slaves of any State free." [See May 9, 1862.] Proclamation Revoking General Hunter's Order of Military Emancipation of May 9, 1862, 19 May 1862, CW, 5:222-24.

Congressional delegation from Maryland, with 50 constituents from Prince George's County, visits President regarding Fugitive Slave Law. Lincoln assures delegation that Gen. Wadsworth will enforce law in District of Columbia. Reply to Maryland Slaveholders, 19 May 1862, CW, 5:224; N.Y. Tribune, 20 May 1862; Boston Advertiser, 20 May 1862.

Appoints Asst. Sec. of Treasury George Harrington "to discharge the duties of Secretary of the Treasury, during the absence of Salmon P. Chase." Appointment of George Harrington, 19 May 1862, CW, 5:221.

President and group of public men observe experiments to test iron armor at Navy Yard. Washington Star, 21 May 1862.

Says he will not relieve Gen. Hunter even on own request. Ely to Chase, 20 May 1862, Salmon P. Chase Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

At 6 P.M. Mrs. Lincoln and carriage call at Browning residence. President arrives on horseback. Goes riding with Sen. Browning (Ill.) and Capt. James N. Brown, Illinois cattleman. Browning, Diary.

Approves act securing homesteads to actual settlers on public domain, act providing primary schools for public instruction in District of Columbia outside Washington and Georgetown, and act prescribing qualification (oath of allegiance) for electors in cities of Washington and Georgetown, DC. Stat. L., XII, 392, 394, 403.

Inquires of Gen. McClellan: "Telegraph being open tell us the situation & suggest if you can anything about batteries at Fort Darling." Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 20 May 1862, CW, 5:224.

Complies with request for autograph: "I beg that her ladyship [Sarah Sophia Fane, Lady Villiers] will accept the assurance of my sincere gratification at this opportunity of subscribing myself Very truly, Her Ladyship's obedient servant." Abraham Lincoln to Lady Villiers, 20 May 1862, CW, 5:225.

President at War Dept. by 7 A.M.; Sec. Stanton and Gen. Halleck join him there. Later he visits Gen. Burnside at Willard's Hotel. LL, No. 1281.

Congressional delegation presents petition asking that Gen. C. S. Hamilton be restored to command. Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 21 May 1862, CW, 5:227.

Lt. Col. Hicks at White House regarding appointment as aide-de-camp to Gen. Wool. Memorandum: Appointment of George Montagu Hicks, 22 May 1862, CW, 5:229.

President communicates with Senate regarding arrests by military commander in Kentucky of persons suspected of secessionist sympathies. Abraham Lincoln to the Senate, 21 May 1862, CW, 5:227.

Informs James Gordon Bennett that secretary of war "mixes no politics whatever with his duties." Abraham Lincoln to James G. Bennett, 21 May 1862, CW, 5:225-26.

Approves act providing for education of colored children in cities of Washington and Georgetown, DC, and for other purposes. Stat. L., XII, 407.

"Library of the Executive Mansion" orders from W. F. Richstein: "1 set Stricklands England $21.00, 1 set Stricklands Scotland $20.00, 1 Mrs. Brownings Poems $9.00, 1 Mrs. Sigourneys Poems $1.25, 1 Mrs. Osgood Poems $0.90." [Agnes Strickland, Lives of the Queens of England . . ., Philadelphia, 1847-1859; Lives of the Queens of Scotland, New York, 1851-59; Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Poems; Mrs. Lydia Howard Sigourney, Illustrated Poems, Philadelphia, 1860; Mrs. Frances Sargent Osgood, Poems, New York, 1846. The third and fourth items paid for by the President, the remaining ones by Commissioner French from annual appropriation. Pratt, Personal Finances, 180.]

John Douglas, clerk, Reformed Presbyterian Church, calls on President and presents document concerning emancipation. Douglas to Lincoln, 14 October 1862, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

Library of Congress lends "Sparrowgrass Papers" to White House. [Frederick Swartout Cozzens, The Sparrowgrass Papers; or, Living in the Country, New York, 1856.] Borrowers' Ledger 1861-63, 114, Archives of the Library of Congress, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

President confirms Gen. McClellan's understanding that in event of junction with Gen. McDowell, McClellan is in command, except that no order can put McDowell out of position to cover Washington. Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 21 May 1862, CW, 5:226-27.

Calls attention of Sen. James F. Simmons (R.I.) to distressed girl from "your state" who seeks employment. "See if you can not get Mr. Sec. Chase or friend [Isaac] Newton to find her a place." Abraham Lincoln to James F. Simmons, 21 May 1862, CW, 5:228.

Writes Sen. Sumner (Mass.) regarding soldier subject to a lethargy arrested for falling asleep: "I should not knowingly let him be punished, if shown he has the infirmity." Abraham Lincoln to Charles Sumner, 21 May 1862, CW, 5:228.

President forwards to House of Representatives information on Faris-el-Hakin case of indemnity for maltreatment. Abraham Lincoln to the House of Representatives, 22 May 1862, CW, 5:229.

Accompanied by Sec. Stanton and Comdr. Dahlgren embarks for visit to army at Fredericksburg. David C. Mearns, "Lincoln," in Arthur E. Bestor, Three Presidents and Their Books: The Reading of Jefferson, Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1955), 80; Extracts from Dahlgren Diary, John G. Nicolay Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

Writes memorandum relative to appointment of Lt. Col. Hicks: "This note, as Col. Hicks did verbally yesterday, attempts to excite me against the Secretary of War , and therein is offensive to me. My 'order' as he is pleased to call it, is plainly no order at all." Memorandum: Appointment of George Montagu Hicks, 22 May 1862, CW, 5:229.

Gen. McDowell and Col. Herman Haupt, aide-de-camp to McDowell and chief of construction and transportation on military railroads, meet President and party at Aquia Creek, Va., and accompany them in baggage car to McDowell's headquarters on north side of Rappahannock. President reviews various divisions and rides along lines with hat off as men cheer. Leaves headquarters at 9 P.M. Leaves Aquia Creek on return trip at 10 P.M. Extracts from Dahlgren Diary, John G. Nicolay Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC; Correspondence, typewritten copy prepared by H. H. Chapman, 6, Correspondence of Herman Haupt, Bureau of Railway Economics, Washington, DC; Official Records—Armies 1, XI, pt. 1, 30.

Transmits report on Mexican affairs to House of Representatives. Abraham Lincoln to the House of Representatives, 23 May 1862, CW, 5:230.

President arrives at Navy Yard about 5 A.M. on return trip from Fredericksburg, Va. Extracts from Dahlgren Diary, John G. Nicolay Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

Visits War Dept. in morning. Browning, Diary.

Confers with Sec. Stanton regarding troop movements. Committee on Conduct of War, Report (1863), 1:274.

Spends much of day in telegraph office directing troop movements under Gens. Fremont and McDowell in consequence of Gen. Banks' critical position resulting from Confederate break-through at Front Royal, Va. Abraham Lincoln to John C. Fremont, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:230; Abraham Lincoln to John C. Fremont, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:231; Abraham Lincoln to Henry W. Halleck, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:231; Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:231-32; Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:232; Abraham Lincoln to Irvin McDowell, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:232-33; Abraham Lincoln to Irvin McDowell, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:233; Abraham Lincoln to Dixon S. Miles, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:234; Abraham Lincoln to Rufus Saxton, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:234.

Sends dispatch to Fremont: "The exposed condition of General Banks makes his immediate relief a point of paramount importance. You are therefore directed by the President to move against Jackson at Harrisonberg and operate against the enemy in such way as to relieve Banks." Abraham Lincoln to John C. Fremont, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:230.

Telegraphs Gen. Rufus Saxton at Harper's Ferry, Va.: (1 P.M.) "Please inform us, if possible, what has become of the force which pursued Banks yesterday. Also, any other information you have." Abraham Lincoln to Rufus Saxton, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:234.

To Gen. Halleck near Corinth, Miss., who seeks reinforcements, Lincoln writes: "We do the best we can . . . each of our commanders along our line from Richmond to Corinth supposes himself to be confronted by numbers superior to his own." Abraham Lincoln to Henry W. Halleck, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:231.

Transmits report of secretary of state on Mexican affairs to Senate. Abraham Lincoln to the Senate, 24 May 1862, CW, 5:234.

Following visit to Fredericksburg, Va., Sec. Chase reports to President that Gen. McDowell has begun movement of 20,000 troops as ordered. Donald, Chase Diaries, 88.

President "stampeded all day with news from Gen. Banks' army," which was last reported in retreat to Martinsburg, Va. Nicolay to Bates, 25 May 1862, John G. Nicolay Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

Telegraphs Gen. Saxton: (10½ P.M.) "Tell me the exact number you now have in hand." Abraham Lincoln to Rufus Saxton, 25 May 1862, CW, 5:238.

Telegraphs Gen. McClellan military situation in vicinity of Front Royal, Va., and Harper's Ferry, Va. Issues orders for placement of men and movements of armies. Committee on Conduct of War, Report (1863), 1:275; Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 25 May 1862, CW, 5:236-37.

Another dispatch to McClellan concludes: "I think the time is near when you must either attack Richmond or give up the job and come to the defence of Washington." Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 25 May 1862, CW, 5:235-36.

Sen. Browning (Ill.) at White House in evening. Browning, Diary.

President remarks to Sen. Browning (Ill.) that Gen. Banks is over Potomac at Williamsport, Md., in good order. Browning, Diary.

Replies to resolution of censure by Congress. Exonerates former Sec. Cameron and states "that not only the President but all the other heads of departments were at least equally responsible with him for whatever error, wrong, or fault was committed in the premises." Abraham Lincoln to the Senate and House of Representatives, 26 May 1862, CW, 5:240-43.

Takes military possession of all railroads in U.S. National Intelligencer, 26 May 1862.

"Library of the Executive Mansion" orders books from W. F. Richstein: "1 Pearls of Ord Island $1.25, 1 Agnes of Sorrento $1.25." [Harriet Beecher Stowe, The Pearl of Orr's Island, Boston, 1862; Agnes of Sorrento, Boston, 1862.] Pratt, Personal Finances, 180.

Lincoln reports to Gen. McClellan: "We have Genl Banks official report. He has saved his army & baggage & has made a safe retreat to the river & is probably safe at Williamsport. He reports the attacking force at fifteen thousand (15000)." Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 26 May 1862, CW, 5:239.

Telegraphs McClellan: "Can you not cut the Acquia Creek Railroad also? What impression have you, as to intrenchments—works—for you to contend with in front of Richmond? Can you get near enough to throw shells into the city?" Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 26 May 1862, CW, 5:239-40.

President notifies Gov. Curtin (Pa.) that only troops who volunteer for three years or for duration will be accepted. Philadelphia News, 28 May 1862.

Telegraphs Gen. Fremont: "I see you are at Moorefield. You were expressly ordered to march to Harrisonburg. What does this mean?" Abraham Lincoln to John C. Fremont, 27 May 1862, CW, 5:243.

"Library of the Executive Mansion" orders books from W. F. Richstein: "1 East Lynne $0.50, 1 Castle Wafer $0.50, 1 Earl Herr $0.50, 1 Chemmings $0.50, 1 Heir to Ashley $0.50, 1 Life Secret $0.50." Pratt, Personal Finances, 180.

[It is not possible to specify editions, but titles of these novels by Mrs. Ellen Price Wood are: East Lynne; Castle Wafer, or the Plain Gold Ring; The Earl's Heirs, A Tale of Domestic Life; The Channings. A Domestic Novel of Real Life; The Heir to Ashley; A Life's Secret. A Story of Woman's Revenge.]

President appears before Committee on Conduct of War and describes 400-foot railroad bridge across Potomac built by Col. Haupt as having nothing in it but cornstalks and beanpoles. Flower, Stanton, 225.

Spends part of evening at War Dept. Browning, Diary.

Stops by Ford's Theatre, 511 10th St. NW., where Mrs. Lincoln and party are attending concert by opera star Clara Louise Kellogg. David R. Barbee, "The Musical Mr. Lincoln," Abraham Lincoln Quarterly 5 (December 1949):450-51.

Recommends Marshal Lamon: "My particular friend, born and raised at Bunker-Hill, an excellent horseman, and, I think, will be most valuable for scouting purposes." Recommendation for Ward H. Lamon, 28 May 1862, CW, 5:247.

Telegraphs Gen. McClellan: "I am very glad of Gen: F. J. [Fitz John] Porter's victory [Hanover Court House]. Still, if it was a total rout of the enemy, I am puzzled to know why the Richmond and Fredericksburg Railroad was not seized. . . . That the whole force of the enemy is concentrating in Richmond, I think can not be certainly known to you or me. . . . I am painfully impressed with the importance of the struggle before you; and I shall aid you all I can consistently with my view of due regard to all points." Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 28 May 1862, CW, 5:244-45.

Telegraphs Gen. McDowell at Manassas Junction: "You say Gen. [John W.] Geary's scouts report they find no enemy this side of the Blue Ridge. Neither do I. Have they been to the Blue Ridge looking for them? . . . I think the evidence now preponderates that [Gen. Richard S.] Ewell [(CSA)] and Jackson are still about Winchester. Assuming this, it is, for you a question of legs. Put in all the speed you can. I have told Fremont as much, and directed him to drive at them as fast as possible. By the way, I suppose you know, Fremont has got up to Moorefield, instead of going to Harrisonburg." Abraham Lincoln to Irvin McDowell, 28 May 1862, CW, 5:246; Abraham Lincoln to Irvin McDowell, 28 May 1862, CW, 5:246.

Lincoln communicates with Gens. Fremont, Banks, McClellan, McDowell, and Marcy on military matters. Abraham Lincoln to John C. Fremont, 29 May 1862, CW, 5:247; Abraham Lincoln to Nathaniel P. Banks, 29 May 1862, CW, 5:247; Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 29 May 1862, CW, 5:248; Abraham Lincoln to Irvin McDowell, 29 May 1862, CW, 5:248; Abraham Lincoln to Randolph B. Marcy, 29 May 1862, CW, 5:248; Abraham Lincoln to Randolph B. Marcy, 29 May 1862, CW, 5:249.

Telegraphs McClellan: "I think we shall be able, within three days, to tell you certainly, whether any considerable force of the enemy, Jackson, or any one else is moving onto Harper's Ferry, or vicinity. Take this expected development into your calculations." Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 29 May 1862, CW, 5:248.

Informs McDowell: "Gen. Fremont's force should, and probably will, be at or near Strasburg by twelve (noon) to-morrow. Try to have your force, or the advance of it, at Front-Royal as soon." Abraham Lincoln to Irvin McDowell, 29 May 1862, CW, 5:248.

In evening Sen. Browning escorts Judge Williams to meeting with Lincoln and later accompanies President to War Dept. Browning, Diary.

President transmits to Senate treaty with Republic of Salvador. Abraham Lincoln to the Senate, 30 May 1862, CW, 5:253.

Orders military commission to meet in July for trial of editors who have violated restrictions on publishing news. N.Y. Tribune, 30 May 1862.

Telegraphs Gen. Banks: "If the enemy, in force, is in or about Martinsburg, Charlestown, and Winchester, or any or all of them, he may come in collision with Fremont; in which case I am anxious that your force, with you, and at Harper's Ferry, should so operate as to assist Fremont, if possible." Abraham Lincoln to Nathaniel P. Banks, 30 May 1862, CW, 5:249.

Sends three telegrams to Gen. Fremont: "(11½ A.M.) There can not be more than twenty, probably not more than fifteen thousand of the enemy, at or about Winchester. Where is your force? It ought this minute to be near Strasburg. Answer at once. . . . (2½ P.M.) Yours saying you will reach Strasburg, or vicinity, at five PM, saturday, has been received and sent to Gen. McDowell, & he directed to act in view of it. You must be up to time you promise if possible. . . . (9½ P.M.) I send you a despatch just received from Gen. Saxton at Harper's Ferry. It seems the game is before you. Have sent a copy to Gen. McDowell." Abraham Lincoln to John C. Fremont, 30 May 1862, CW, 5:250; Abraham Lincoln to John C. Fremont, 30 May 1862, CW, 5:250; Abraham Lincoln to John C. Fremont, 30 May 1862, CW, 5:250-51.

Sends four telegrams to Gen. McDowell: "(10 A.M.) I somewhat apprehend that Fremont's force, in it's present condition, may not be quite strong enough in case it comes in collision with the enemy. For this additional reason, I wish you to push forward your column as rapidly as possible. Tell me what number your force reaching Front Royal will amount to. . . . (12:40 [P.M.]) Your despatch of to-day received, and is satisfactory. Fremont has nominally twenty-two thousand, really about seventeen thousand. . . . I have a despatch from Fremont this morning, not telling me where he is, but he says 'Scouts and men from Winchester represent Jacksons force variously at thirty to sixty thousand. With him Gen. Ewell and [Gen. James] Longstreet [CSA].' The high figures erroneous of course. Do you not know where Longstreet is? . . . (2½ P.M.) Here-with I send a telegram just received from Gen. Fremont. . . . you will act your discretion, taking this information into your calculation. . . . (9½ P.M.) I send you a despatch just received from Gen. Saxton at Harper's Ferry—It seems the game is before you. Have sent a copy to Gen. Fremont." Abraham Lincoln to Irvin McDowell, 30 May 1862, CW, 5:251; Abraham Lincoln to Irvin McDowell, 30 May 1862, CW, 5:252; Abraham Lincoln to Irvin McDowell, 30 May 1862, CW, 5:252; Abraham Lincoln to Irvin McDowell, 30 May 1862, CW, 5:252.

President loiters about War Dept. telegraph office in afternoon with Maj. Thomas T. Eckert, anxious for news. Operator sends out requests for news. Marcy to McClellan, 31 May 1862, George B. McClellan Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

At 11 P.M. first dispatch on battle before Richmond reaches White House. Nicolay to Bates, 2 June 1862, John G. Nicolay Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

Lincoln telegraphs Gen. McClellan: "(10.20 P.M.) A circle whose circumference shall pass through Harper's Ferry, Front-Royal, and Strasburg, and whose center shall be a little North East of Winchester, almost certainly has within it this morning, the forces of Jackson, Ewell, and [Gen.] Edward Johnson [(CSA)]. . . . Some part of these forces attacked Harper's Ferry at dark last evening, . . . Shields—with McDowell's advance, re-took Front Royal at 11 A.M. yesterday, . . . Fremont . . . promises to be at or near Strasburg at 5 P.M. to-day. Banks, at Williamsport, with his old force, and his new force at Harper's Ferry, is directed to cooperate." Abraham Lincoln to George B. McClellan, 31 May 1862, CW, 5:254.