admission of representatives from the insurrectionary States.  The Richmond party were then informed that Congress had, on the 31st ultimo, adopted by a constitutional majority a joint resolution submitting to the several States the proposition to abolish slavery throughout the Union, and that there is every reason to expect that it will be soon accepted by three fourths of the States, so as to become a part of the national organic law.

The conference came to an end by mutual acquiescence, without producing an agreement of views upon the several matters discussed, or any of them.  Nevertheless, it is perhaps of some importance that we have been able to submit our opinions and views directly to prominent insurgents, and to hear them in answer in a courteous and not unfriendly manner.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

William H. Seward.

TO ADMIRAL DAVID D. PORTER.

Executive Mansion,
February 10, 1865

Rear-admiral David D. Porter,
Commanding North Atlantic Squadron, Hampton Roads, Va.

Sir:—­It is made my agreeable duty to enclose herewith the joint resolution approved 24th January, 1865, tendering the thanks of Congress to yourself, the officers and men under your command for their gallantry and good conduct in the capture of Fort Fisher, and through you to all who participated in that brilliant and decisive victory under your command.

Very respectfully,

Abraham Lincoln.

TELEGRAM TO GENERAL S. POPE.  EXECUTIVE MANSION, WASHINGTON, February 12, 1865

Major-general Pope, St. Louis, Missouri: 

I understand that provost-marshals in different parts of Missouri are assuming to decide that the conditions of bonds are forfeited, and therefore are seizing and selling property to pay damages.  This, if true, is both outrageous and ridiculous.  Do not allow it.  The courts, and not provost-marshals, are to decide such questions unless when military necessity makes an exception.  Also excuse John Eaton, of Clay County, and Wesley Martin, of Platte, from being sent South, and let them go East if anywhere.

A. LINCOLN

TO THE COMMANDING OFFICERS IN WEST TENNESSEE

Washington,
February 13, 1865.

To the military officers commanding in west
Tennessee: 

While I cannot order as within requested, allow me to say that it is my wish for you to relieve the people from all burdens, harassments, and oppressions, so far as is possible consistently with your military necessities; that the object of the war being to restore and maintain the blessings of peace and good government, I desire you to help, and not hinder, every advance in that direction.