413

[Enclosure C]

306. Abraham Lincoln to Gen. Godfrey Weitzel.

The following is a copy from the original in the hand writing of Mr. Lincoln —

P. Ord U.S.A.

A.D.C. to Gen'l Ord —

Head Quarters of the Armies of the United States

City Point, April 6, 1865.

Major General Weitzel

Richmond Va.:

It has been intimated to me that the gentlemen who have acted as the Legislature of Virginia, in support of the rebellion, may now desire to assemble at Richmond and take measures to withdraw the Virginia troops, and other support from resistance to the General Government. If they attempt it give them permission and protection until, if at all, they attempt some action hostile to the United States, in which case you will notify them and give them reasonable time to leave; and at the end of which time arrest any who may remain. Allow Judge Campbell to see this, but do not make it public —

Yours &c.
(signed) A. Lincoln

Library of Congress: Herndon-Weik Collection. Manuscript Division. Library of Congress. Washington, D.C. 2768 (Howard's letter), Herndon-Weik Collection. Manuscript Division. Library of Congress. Washington, D.C. 4493 — 94 (enclosure A), Herndon-Weik Collection. Manuscript Division. Library of Congress. Washington, D.C. 4491 — 92 (enclosure B); Huntington Library: LN2408, 2:405 — 11 (letter and all enclosures)