131 is but the humane protection of the flag they have so fearlessly defended. (In an article in Scribner's Magazine for January, 1893, by the Marquis de Chambrun, the above letter contains this paragraph): The restoration of the Rebel States to the Union must rest upon the principle of civil and political equality of both races; and it must be sealed by general amnesty. MEMORANDUM CONCERNING THE TRANSPORTATION OF THE NEW YORK NAVAL BRIGADE WASHINGTON, May 26, 1864. Whom it may Concern: I am again pressed with the claim of Mr. Marshall O. Roberts, for transportation of what was called the Naval Brigade from New York to Fortress Monroe. This force was a special organization got up by one Bartlett, in pretended pursuance of written authority from me, but in fact, pursuing the authority in scarcely anything whatever. The credit given him by Mr. Roberts, was given in the teeth of the express declaration that the Government would not be responsible for the class of expenses to which it belonged. After all some part of the transportation became useful to the Government, and equitably should be paid for; but I have neither time nor means to ascer tain this equitable amount, or any appropriation to pay it with if ascertained. If the Quartermaster at New York can ascertain what would compensate for so much of the transportation as did result usefully to the Government it might be a step toward reaching justice. I write this from memory, but I believe it substantially corA. LINCOLN. rect. ADDRESS TO THE ENVOY FROM THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS, June 11, 1864 Sir: In every light in which the state of the Hawaiian Islands can be contemplated, it is an object of profound interest for the United States. Virtually it was once a colony. It is a haven of shelter and refreshment for our merchants, fishermen, seamen, and other citizens, when on their lawful occasions they are navigating the eastern seas and oceans. Its people are free, and its laws, language, and religion are largely the fruit of our own teaching and example. The distinguished part which you, Mr. Minister, have acted in the history of that interesting country, is well known here. It gives me pleasure to assure you of my sincere desire to do what I can to render now your sojourn in the United States agreeable to yourself, satisfactory to your sovereign, and beneficial to the Hawaiian people. ORDER CONCERNING THE STEAMER "FUNAYMA SOLACE" EXECUTIVE MANSION, December 3, 1864. A war steamer called the Funayma Solace, having been built in this country, for the Japanese government and at the instance of that government, it is deemed to comport with the public interest, in view of the unsettled condition of the relations of the United States with that Empire, that the steamer should not be allowed to proceed to Japan. If, however, the Secretary of the Navy should ascertain that the steamer is adapted to our service, he is authorized to purchase her, but the purchase money will be held in trust toward satisfying any valid claims which may be presented by the Japanese on account of the construction of the steamer and the failure to deliver the same, as above set forth. ABRAHAM LINCOLN. CARD TO SECRETARY OF WAR Secretary of War. Sir: Without an if or an and, let Colonel Elliott W. Rice be made a Brigadier-General in the United States Army. [Without Date.] A. LINCOLN. |