Do not misunderstand me because I have mentioned these objections.  They indicate the difficulties that have thus far prevented my action in some such way as you desire.  I have not decided against a proclamation of liberty to the slaves, but hold the matter under advisement; and I can assure you that the subject is on my mind, by day and night, more than any other.  Whatever shall appear to be God’s will, I will do.  I trust that in the freedom with which I have canvassed your views I have not in any respect injured your feelings.

TELEGRAM TO GENERAL H. G. WRIGHT.

War department, Washington, D. C., September 14, 1862.

General Wright, Cincinnati, Ohio: 

Thanks for your despatch.  Can you not pursue the retreating enemy, and relieve Cumberland Gap?

A. Lincoln.

TELEGRAM TO GENERAL G. B. McCLELLAN.

War department, Washington,

September 15, 1862. 2.45 P.M.

Major-general McCLELLAN: 

Your despatch of to-day received.  God bless you, and all with you. 
Destroy the rebel army if possible.

A. Lincoln.

TELEGRAM TO J. K. DUBOIS.  WASHINGTON, D.C.,

September 15, 1862. 3 P.M.

Hon.  K. Dubois, Springfield, Illinois: 

I now consider it safe to say that General McClellan has gained a great victory over the great rebel army in Maryland, between Fredericktown and Hagerstown.  He is now pursuing the flying foe.

A. Lincoln.

[But not very fast—­and he did not catch them!  D.W.]

TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR CURTIN,

Washington, D. C., September 16, 1862.  Noon.

Governor Curtin, Harrisburg: 

What do you hear from General McClellan’s army?  We have nothing from him to-day.

A. Lincoln.

TELEGRAM TO GOVERNOR MORTON.

Washington, D.C., September 17, 1862.

Governor O. P. Morton, Indianapolis, Indiana: 

I have received your despatch in regard to recommendations of General
Wright.  I have received no such despatch from him, at least not that
I can remember.  I refer yours for General Halleck’s consideration. 
A. Lincoln.

TELEGRAM TO GENERAL KETCHUM.

Executive Mansion, Washington, September 20, 1862.

General Ketchum, Springfield, Illinois: 

How many regiments are there in Illinois, ready for service but for want of arms?  How many arms have you there ready for distribution?