Abraham Lincoln.

MESSAGE TO THE SENATE.

Washington, D. C., December 8, 1863.

To the Senate of the united states: 

Congress, on my recommendation, passed a resolution, approved 7th February, 1863, tendering its thanks to Commander D. D. Porter “for the bravery and skill displayed in the attack on the post of Arkansas on the 10th January, 1863,” and in consideration of those services, together with his efficient labors and vigilance subsequently displayed in thwarting the efforts of the rebels to obstruct the Mississippi and its tributaries and the important part rendered by the squadron under his command, which led to the surrender of Vicksburg.

I do therefore, in conformity to the seventh section of the act approved 16th July, 1862, nominate Commander D. D. Porter to be a rear-admiral in the Navy on the active list from the 4th July, 1863, to fill an existing vacancy.

Abraham Lincoln.

Telegram to general U. S. Grant. 
Washington, December 8, 1863.

Major-general grant:  Understanding that your lodgment at Chattanooga and Knoxville is now secure, I wish to tender you, and all under your command, my more than thanks, my profoundest gratitude, for the skill, courage, and perseverance with which you and they, over so great difficulties, have effected that important object.  God bless you all!

A. Lincoln.

TO GOVERNOR CURTIN.

Executive Mansion,
Washington, December 9, 1863

His excellency A. G. Curtin, Governor of Pennsylvania.  Dear sir:—­I have to urge my illness, and the preparation of the message, in excuse for not having sooner transmitted you the inclosed from the Secretary of War and Provost Marshal General in response to yours in relation to recruiting in Pennsylvania.  Though not quite as you desire, I hope the grounds taken will be reasonably satisfactory to you.  Allow me to exchange congratulations with you on the organization of the House of Representatives, and especially on recent military events in Georgia and Tennessee.

Yours very truly,

A. Lincoln.

Telegram to general Butler. 
Executive Mansion, Washington, D. C., December 10, 1863.

Major-general Butler, Fort Monroe, Va.: 

Please suspend execution in any and all sentences of death in your department until further order.

A. Lincoln.

Telegram to general Meade. 
Executive Mansion, Washington, December 11, 1863.

Major-general Meade, Army of the Potomac: