<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-01'>Tuesday, December 1, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
"President is steadily recovering from his indisposition and it is 
not doubted that he will in a day or two be equal to the active 
resumption of his arduous duties."
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Star, 1 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Recognizes J. B. Gossler as vice consul of Austria at Boston.
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Chronicle, 5 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-02'>Wednesday, December 2, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
Lincoln declines invitation to attend meeting at Cooper Institute to 
promote raising of volunteers.
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A64' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to George Opdyke and Others</xref>, 2 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:32; Washington Chronicle, 6 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Baltimore "American" places at head of its columns name of Lincoln as 
candidate for President in 1864.
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Star, 2 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-03'>Thursday, December 3, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
President ill. "We are glad to say that he is in a fair way for 
speedy recovery."
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Star, 3 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
[<person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs. Lincoln</person> arrives Metropolitan Hotel, New York, in evening.
<bibl default='NO'>Helm, <title corresp='books_Helm'>Mary</title>, 234.</bibl>]
</p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-04'>Friday, December 4, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
9:30 A.M. President telegraphs <person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs. Lincoln</person> in New York: "All going well."
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A69' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Mary Todd Lincoln</xref>, 4 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:34.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Congs. Brutus J. Clay (Ky.) and Green Clay Smith (Ky.) present to 
President petition for release of Clifton F. Estill, prisoner of war 
at Camp Douglas, Ill., whose mother was active Union lady in Fayette 
County.
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A71' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Edwin M. Stanton</xref>, 4 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:34.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
President, still confined to room, is working on Annual Message to Congress.
<bibl default='NO'>
               <title>N.Y. Herald</title>, 5 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-05'>Saturday, December 5, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
10 A.M. President telegraphs <person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs. Lincoln</person> at Metropolitan Hotel, New 
York: "All doing well."
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A72' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Mary Todd Lincoln</xref>, 5 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:34.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Is toasted at banquet by city authorities to commemorate turning of 
Potomac water into aqueduct.
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Chronicle, 7 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Receives November salary warrant for $2,022.34.
<bibl default='NO'>Pratt, <title corresp='books_Pratt3'>Personal Finances</title>, 183.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-06'>Sunday, December 6, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
President telegraphs <person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs. Lincoln</person> in New York: "All doing well."
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A73' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Mary Todd Lincoln</xref>, 6 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:35.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Sends for Cong. Colfax (Ind.), nominated for Speaker of House by acclamation.
<bibl default='NO'>Hay, <title corresp='books_Hay'>Letters and Diary</title>.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Confers with Colfax about plans of clerk of House of Representatives 
to give control of House to Peace Party by excluding members with old 
certificates.
<bibl default='NO'>Memorandum, 6 December 1863, John G. Nicolay Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline> 
            <date value='1863-12-07'>Monday, December 7, 1863.</date> 
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington,
  DC</place>. </dateline>
         <p> 10:20 A.M. President telegraphs
  <person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs. Lincoln</person> in New York: "All doing well. Tad
  confidently expects you to-night. When will you come?" Mrs. Lincoln replies:
  "Will leave here positively at 8 a.m. Tuesday morning. Have carriage waiting at
  depot in Washington at 6 p.m. Did Tad receive his book. Please answer." 7 P.M.
  President telegraphs reply: "Tad has received his book. The carriage shall be
  ready at 6 P.M. tomorrow." <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A75' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
  Lincoln to Mary Todd Lincoln</xref>, 7 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:35;
  <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A76' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
  Lincoln to Mary Todd Lincoln</xref>, 7 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:35.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Issues press
  release on Union success in Tennessee and recommends that all loyal people
  assemble informally in churches and render homage to God. <bibl default='NO'>Washington
  Chronicle, 8 December 1863;
  <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A74' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Announcement
  of Union Success in Tennessee</xref>, 7 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:35.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Refers to
  military situation at Knoxville and comments: "Now if this Army of the Potomac
  was any good . . . if the Army had any legs, they could move 30,000 men down to
  Lynchburg and catch Longstreet. Can anybody doubt, if Grant were here in
  command that he would catch him?" <bibl default='NO'>Memorandum, 7 December 1863, John G.
  Nicolay Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl> 
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline> 
            <date value='1863-12-08'>Tuesday, December 8, 1863.</date> 
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington,
  DC</place>. </dateline>
         <p> President receives joint committee from 38th
  Congress and announces that Annual Message will be communicated to Congress
  tomorrow at 12:30 P.M. <bibl default='NO'> 
               <title>Senate Journal</title>, 8.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p>
  Annual report describes past year as one of health, sufficient harvests,
  improved conditions in national affairs, and peace with foreign powers.
  Treaties with Great Britain have suppressed African slave trade and adjusted
  possessory claims in Washington Territory. Negotiations with Spain, Chile,
  Peru, Nicaragua, and Colombia have been satisfactory. Foreigners within lines
  of insurgents are classed as belligerents, and naturalized persons must serve
  in military. Condition of organized territories is generally satisfactory.
  Under sharp discipline of civil war, Nation is beginning a new life. Operations
  of Treasury during last year have been successfully conducted. Pay of Army and
  Navy promptly met. People have borne burdens cheerfully. Blockade is increasing
  in efficiency; but illicit trade is not entirely suppressed. Production of war
  vessels has created new form of naval power. Post office may become
  self-supporting in few years. In Dept. of Interior public lands are being taken
  up, legislation is needed for Indian system, consideration should be given to
  enlarging water connections between Mississippi River and northeastern
  seaboard. When Congress assembled year ago, tone of public feeling and opinion
  at home and abroad was not satisfactory. With emancipation and employment of
  Negro troops there is new reckoning. Crisis which threatened to divide friends
  of Union is past. Looking to resumption of national authority within states,
  proclamation of amnesty and reconstruction is thought fit. State governments
  set up under prescribed mode will be recognized. War power is still main
  reliance. Chief care must be directed to Army and Navy. <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A77' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Annual
  Message to Congress</xref>, 8 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:36-53.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> President issues
  Proclamation of Amnesty and Reconstruction whereby: 1. Persons in rebellion,
  with certain exceptions, who take oath to support Constitution are granted full
  pardon. 2. Exceptions are civil, diplomatic, and specified defense agents of
  Confederate government, and persons guilty of mistreating Negro prisoners of
  war. 3. Governments reestablished as prescribed in rebellious states shall be
  recognized as free governments of such states. 4. President will not object to
  provisions adopted by reestablished governments in relation to freed people. 5.
  Proclamation has no reference to states wherein loyal state governments have
  been maintained. 6. Congress shall have sole right of admitting members
  representing reestablished governments. <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A79' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Proclamation
  of Amnesty and Reconstruction</xref>, 8 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:53-56.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> [This
  proclamation is authority for pardons granted by Lincoln throughout remainder
  of war.] Lincoln sends "my profoundest gratitude" to Gen. Grant and his command
  for fighting at Chattanooga and Knoxville. <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A78' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
  Lincoln to Ulysses S. Grant</xref>, 8 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:53.</bibl> Deposits in Riggs Bank
  November salary warrant for $2,022.34. <bibl default='NO'>Pratt,
  <title corresp='books_Pratt3'>Personal Finances</title>, 183.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p>
  Nominates "Commander D. D. Porter, to be a Rear Admiral in Navy, on the Active
  List, from the 4th. July 1863." <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A80' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
  Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, 8 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:56-57.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Recommends to
  Congress that "Capt. John Rodgers, U.S. Navy, receive vote of thanks" for skill
  and gallantry exhibited in engagement with rebel steamer "Fingal," alias
  "Atlanta." <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A81' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
  Lincoln to the Senate and House of Representatives</xref>, 8 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:57.</bibl> 
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-09'>Wednesday, December 9, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
"The President's Message will be read this morning in both Houses of 
Congress, at half-past twelve o'clock."
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Chronicle, 9 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Many call at White House to congratulate President on message to 
Congress. Lincoln says that only person who objected to message was 
Sec. Chase.
<bibl default='NO'>Hay, <title corresp='books_Hay'>Letters and Diary</title>.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-10'>Thursday, December 10, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
Lincoln telegraphs Gov. Johnson (Tenn.) at 10:30 A.M.: "I still 
desire very much to see you can you not come"
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A86' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Andrew Johnson</xref>, 10 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:59.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Transmits to both Houses of Congress report and documents relating to 
"An Act to regulate the diplomatic and consular systems of the United 
States."
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A88' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate and House of Representatives</xref>, 10 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:59.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Lincoln's health much improved; he sees visitors with special business.
<bibl default='NO'>Chicago Tribune, 11 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Interviews Cong. Arnold (Ill.) in evening.
<bibl default='NO'>Hay, <title corresp='books_Hay'>Letters and Diary</title>.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-11'>Friday, December 11, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
"President Lincoln, we are happy to state, is now convalescent, and yesterday 
passed several hours in the transaction of official business."
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Chronicle, 11 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Telegraphs Gen. Schofield: "Please come to see me at once."
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A93' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to John M. Schofield</xref>, 11 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:61.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Pardons Edward W. Gantt, of Arkansas, guilty of treason incurred by 
serving as brigadier general in Confederate army.
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Star, 11 December 1863; Jonathan T. Dorris, <title>Pardon and Amnesty under Lincoln and Johnson: The Restoration of the Confederates to their Rights and Privileges, 1861-1898</title> (Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 1953), 36.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-12'>Saturday, December 12, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
Sen. Alexander Ramsey (Minn.) and Capt. Thomas A. P. Champlin 
interview President regarding courtmartial of Champlin.
<bibl default='NO'>Ramsey to Lincoln, 15 December 1863, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
President sees no callers today because of illness.
<bibl default='NO'>Browning, <title corresp='books_Browning'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Notifies 
<person key='ST16686' teiForm='name'>Sec. Stanton</person>
 that resignation of Gen. Palmer was not 
accepted. "I do not want him to resign, unless there be some reason 
not yet known to me."
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A95' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Edwin M. Stanton</xref>, 12 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:61.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-13'>Sunday, December 13, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
Lincoln confides in O. H. Browning that Emily Todd Helm, half-sister 
to <person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs. Lincoln</person>, is at White House and fact should not be made public.
<bibl default='NO'>Browning, <title corresp='books_Browning'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Sends message to Gen. Schofield: "On the 11th. I telegraphed, asking 
you to come here and see me. Did you receive the despatch?"
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A96' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to John M. Schofield</xref>, 13 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:62.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Discusses Missouri affairs and seems inclined to remove Schofield and 
put Gen. Resecrans in his place.
<bibl default='NO'>Hay, <title corresp='books_Hay'>Letters and Diary</title>.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
In evening Gens. Sickles and Wadsworth call on President, who has 
special guest, J. H. Hackett.
<bibl default='NO'>Hay, <title corresp='books_Hay'>Letters and Diary</title>.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline> 
            <date value='1863-12-14'>Monday, December 14, 1863.</date> 
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington,
  DC</place>. </dateline>
         <p> Lincoln interviews former Cong. Samuel L. Casey
  (Ky.) and orders safe-conduct for him from Cairo, Ill. to Red River and return
  with any cargoes he may bring. <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A98' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Agreement
  Signed by Samuel L. Casey</xref>, 14 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:62-63.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Restores
  all rights of person and property to Emily Todd Helm who takes oath of December
  8, 1863. <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A100' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Amnesty
  to Emily T. Helm</xref>, 14 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:63-64.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Declines to see
  Cong. Fernando Wood (N.Y.), who seeks amnesty for Northern sympathizers with
  rebellion. <bibl default='NO'>Memorandum, 15 December 1863, John G. Nicolay Papers, Library
  of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> President and family visit Ford's
  Theatre to see J. H. Hackett play Falstaff in "Henry IV." <bibl default='NO'>Washington
  Chronicle, 15 December 1863.</bibl> 
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-15'>Tuesday, December 15, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
"The President this morning was able to be in his office and attend 
to business."
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Star, 15 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Interviews Dr. Thomas Cottman of Louisiana relative to 
reestablishment of state government.
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A108' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Thomas Cottman</xref>, 15 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:66-67.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Lays before Senate six Indian treaties.
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A112' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, [15] December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:68; <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A113' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, [15] December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:68; <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A114' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, [15] December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:69; <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A115' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, [15] December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:69; <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A116' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, [15] December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:69-70; <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A117' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, [15] December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:70.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Attends cabinet meeting.
<bibl default='NO'>Welles, <title corresp='books_Welles1'>Diary</title>.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Capt. Champlin returns to ask Lincoln to discharge penalty adjudged 
against him by courtmartial.
<bibl default='NO'>Ramsey to Lincoln, 15 December 1863, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Lincoln explains to Judge Ogden Hoffman, of San Francisco, that "oath 
in the proclamation of Dec. 8th is intended for those who may 
<uLine>voluntarily</uLine> take it, and not for those who may be 
<uLine>constrained</uLine> to take it, in order to escape actual 
imprisonment."
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A111' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Ogden Hoffman</xref>, 15 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:67-68.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Attends Ford's Theatre, accompanied by John Nicolay and John Hay, to 
see J. H. Hackett play Falstaff in "Henry IV." Criticizes Hackett's 
reading of a passage.
<bibl default='NO'>Hay, <title corresp='books_Hay'>Letters and Diary</title>.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Writes Mother Mary Gonyeag, Superior, Academy of Visitation, Keokuk, 
Iowa: "The President has no authority as to whether you may raffle 
for the benevolent object you mention. If there is no objection in 
the Iowa laws, there is none here."
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A110' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Mother Mary Gonyeag</xref>, 15 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:67.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Transmits to Senate "certain information touching persons in the 
service of this Government."
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A118' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, 15 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:70.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-16'>Wednesday, December 16, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
As public mark of esteem felt by U.S. for high character and steady 
friendship of John Bright, President pardons Alfred Rubery, youthful 
British subject sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment and to pay fine 
of $10,000 for aiding Confederacy.
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A120' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Pardon of Alfred Rubery</xref>, [16 December 1863?], <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:71-72.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Confers for an hour with Cong. Fernando Wood (N.Y.), about amnesty 
for Northern sympathizers with rebellion. President's Amnesty 
Proclamation of December 8, 1863 is not specific with respect to 
Northern sympathizers.
<bibl default='NO'>Chicago Tribune, 18 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Lincoln interviews C. C. Fulton, introduced by Postmaster Gen. Blair.
<bibl default='NO'>Blair to Lincoln, 16 December 1863, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Issues proclamation concerning discriminating duties of tonnage and imposts.
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A121' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Proclamation Concerning Discriminating Duties</xref>, 16 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:72-73.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline> 
            <date value='1863-12-17'>Thursday, December 17, 1863.</date> 
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington,
  DC</place>. </dateline>
         <p> Baltimore delegation of public men calls on
  President and asks that J. L. Ridgely be reinstated as collector of internal
  revenue. <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A128' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Memorandum:
  Removal of James L. Ridgely</xref>, 17 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:75-76.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> President
  transmits to Senate convention between U.S. and Great Britain relative to
  claims of Hudson's Bay and Puget's Sound Agricultural Companies. <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A129' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
  Lincoln to the Senate</xref>, 17 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:76.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Submits to Congress
  proposition for establishing "Bureau of Emancipation" as proposed by Freedmen's
  Aid Societies. <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A130' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
  Lincoln to the Senate and House of Representatives</xref>, 17 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:76-77.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Clement
  Barclay, of Pennsylvania, informs Lincoln that Gen. John Buford cannot live
  through day, whereupon Lincoln appoints him major general in U.S. Army and
  Barclay carries news to dying hero. <bibl default='NO'>Washington Star, 17 December
  1863.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Justices of Supreme Court pay their annual visit to
  President. <bibl default='NO'>Washington Chronicle, 19 December 1863.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p>
  Benjamin P. Moore, Jr., introduced by Cong. Edwin H. Webster (Md.), interviews
  President and asks exemption from draft as conscientious objector. President
  gives him card to <person key='ST16686' teiForm='name'>Sec. Stanton</person> . <bibl default='NO'>Moore to
  Lincoln, 18 December 1863, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln
  Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Visits Ford's
  Theatre to see "Merry Wives of Windsor." <bibl default='NO'>Hay, <title corresp='books_Hay'>Letters and Diary</title>.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Introduces
  Joshua F. Speed and Joshua Tevis, of Kentucky, to Thurlow Weed, "and I think
  their mission an important one." <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A132' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
  Lincoln to Thurlow Weed</xref>, 17 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:77.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Lincoln writes
  James H. Hoes, jeweler of Chicago: "I have received from the Sanitary
  Commission of Chicago, the Watch which you placed at their disposal, and I take
  the liberty of conveying to you my high appreciation of your humanity and
  generosity, of which I have unexpectedly become the beneficiary." [Lincoln
  received watch for gift of draft of Emancipation Proclamation to Northwest
  Sanitary Fair, where it sold for $3,000, making him largest individual
  contributor and award winner.] <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A126' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
  Lincoln to James H. Hoes</xref>, 17 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:75.</bibl> 
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-18'>Friday, December 18, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
President believes Gen. Schofield must be relieved of command of 
Dept. of Missouri.
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A135' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Edwin M. Stanton</xref>, 18 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:78-79.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Confers with Alexander M. White of Pennsylvania representing Gov. Curtin (Pa.).
<bibl default='NO'>Bates to Lincoln, 18 December 1863, Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Attends second lecture on Russia by Bayard Taylor, former secretary 
to minister at St. Petersburg, at Willard's Hall.
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Chronicle, 19 December 1863; Hay, <title corresp='books_Hay'>Letters and Diary</title>.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
Requests Cong. Washburne (Ill.) to superintend preparation of medal 
for Gen. Grant.
<bibl default='NO'>Gaillard Hunt, <title>Israel, Elihu, and Cadwallader Washburn: A Chapter in American Biography</title> (New York: Macmillan, 1925), 231; <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A136' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Elihu Washburne</xref>, 18 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:79.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-19'>Saturday, December 19, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
Sec. Seward reads to President another dispatch from Cassius M. Clay, 
abusing Emperor Napoleon.
<bibl default='NO'>Dennett, <title corresp='books_Dennett'>Hay Diaries and Letters</title>, 139.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
President and <person key='LI30825' teiForm='name'>Mrs. Lincoln</person> invite members of Congress, other public 
dignitaries, and officers of Russian vessels now in American waters 
to reception at White House from 1 to 3 P.M.
<bibl default='NO'>Washington Chronicle, 19 December 1863; Washington Star, 19 December 1863.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
In evening Mrs. Charles Craig, of Arkansas, accompanied by H. T. 
Blow, calls on Lincoln and asks for pass for herself and husband to 
Arkansas to raise cotton on their farm.
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A147' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Permit to Mr. and Mrs. Charles Craig</xref>, 21 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:83-84.</bibl>
         </p>
         <p>
President asks Gen. Grant if, without embarrassment, Gen. Milroy 
could be assigned "a place."
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A139' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Ulysses S. Grant</xref>, 19 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:80.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline>
            <date value='1863-12-20'>Sunday, December 20, 1863.</date>
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington, DC</place>.
</dateline>
         <p>
President replies to Henry C. Wright, lecturing agent of 
Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society: "I shall not attempt to retract 
or modify the emancipation proclamation; nor shall I return to 
slavery any person who is free by the terms of that proclamation, or 
by any of the acts of Congress."
<bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A142' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham Lincoln to Henry C. Wright</xref>, 20 December 1863, <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:81.</bibl>
         </p>
      </div2>

<div2 part='N' sample='complete' org='uniform'>
         <dateline> 
            <date value='1863-12-21'>Monday, December 21, 1863.</date> 
            <place key='38.8833, -77.0333' teiForm='name'>Washington,
  DC</place>. </dateline>
         <p> President interviews Cong. Calvin T. Hulburd (N.Y.)
  relative to deserters in Canada. <bibl default='NO'>Hulburd to Lincoln, 21 December 1863,
  Robert Todd Lincoln Collection of Abraham Lincoln Papers, Library of Congress,
  Washington, DC.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Approves joint resolution tendering thanks of
  Congress and medal to Gen. Grant. <bibl default='NO'>Washington Chronicle, 22 December
  1863.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Remains at War Dept. while decoders read message,
  intercepted in mail at New York, intended for Judah P. Benjamin, Secretary of
  State (CSA). <bibl default='NO'>Bates, <title corresp='books_Bates1'>Telegraph
  Office</title>, 71-72.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> President informs Sens. Foster (Conn.)
  and Dixon (Conn.) he has sent up nomination of Henry Hammond to be marshal of
  Connecticut. <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A145' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
  Lincoln to Lafayette S. Foster and James Dixon</xref>, 21 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:82-83.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Sends note
  to Gov. Peirpoint (Va.): "Please come up and see me to-day." <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url='http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=lincoln;rgn=div1;view=text;idno=lincoln7;node=lincoln7%3A146' targOrder='U' to='DITTO'>Abraham
  Lincoln to Francis H. Peirpoint</xref>, 21 December 1863,
  <title corresp='books_Basler2'>CW</title>, 7:83.</bibl> 
         </p>
         <p> Comments, in
  letter to <person key='ST16686' teiForm='name'>Sec. Stanton</person> , on aspects of "strikes
  in the Ship-yards," social influence of St. Louis upon Gen. Pope, and future of
  Gen. Schofield. <bibl default='NO'>
               <xref from='ROOT' url