I transmit to Congress a copy of correspondence between the Secretary of State and her Britannic Majesty’s envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary accredited to this government, relative to the exhibition of the products of industry of all nations, which is to take place at London in the course of next year.  As citizens of the United States may justly pride themselves upon their proficiency in industrial arts, it is desirable that they should have proper facilities toward taking part in the exhibition.  With this view I recommend such legislation by Congress at this session as may be necessary for that purpose.

Abraham Lincoln.

Washington, July 16, 1861

MESSAGE TO CONGRESS.

To the Senate and house of representatives: 

As the United States have, in common with Great Britain and France, a deep interest in the preservation and development of the fisheries adjacent to the northeastern coast and islands of this continent, it seems proper that we should concert with the governments of those countries such measures as may be conducive to those important objects.  With this view I transmit to Congress a copy of a correspondence between the Secretary of State and the British minister here, in which the latter proposes, on behalf of his government, the appointment of a joint commission to inquire into the matter, in order that such ulterior measures may be adopted as may be advisable for the objects proposed.  Such legislation recommended as may be necessary to enable the executive to provide for a commissioner on behalf of the United States: 

Washington, July 19, 1861.

Abraham Lincoln.

TO THE ADJUTANT-GENERAL

WASHINGTON, JULY 19, 1861

Adjutant-general: 

I have agreed, and do agree, that the two Indian regiments named within shall be accepted if the act of Congress shall admit it.  Let there be no further question about it.

A. Lincoln.

Memoranda of military policy suggested by the
Bull run defeat. 
July 23, 1861

1.  Let the plan for making the blockade effective be pushed forward with all possible despatch.

2.  Let the volunteer forces at Fort Monroe and vicinity under General Butler be constantly drilled, disciplined, and instructed without more for the present.

3.  Let Baltimore be held as now, with a gentle but firm and certain hand.

4.  Let the force now under Patterson or Banks be strengthened and made secure in its position.

5.  Let the forces in Western Virginia act till further orders according to instructions or orders from General McClellan.