672

561. James C. Conkling to Jesse W. Weik.

Springfield, Ill., Jany 11 1889

Dear Sir

I now enclose you a copy of the letter dated August 26 1863 by Mr Lincoln to me. It has been carefully compared with the original and is a correct copy, except the words commencing "I know as fully as one can know &c" to the words "You say you will not fight to free negroes", were not included in the original, but were telegraphed the next day with instructions to insert.

I have no copy of the invitation extended to Mr Lincoln to attend the mass meeting

I will remark that Mr Bancroft, the historian in commenting on this letter, considers it addressed to me as one who was criticizing Mr Lincoln's policy. On the contrary, I was directed by a meeting of unconditional Union men, to invite Mr Lincoln to attend a mass meeting composed of such men, and he only took occasion to address his opponents through the medium of this letter

Yours truly
James C. Conkling

Library of Congress: Herndon-Weik Collection. Manuscript Division. Library of Congress. Washington, D.C. 4683

nts

Notes.

1. CW 6:406 — 10.