Annotation
[1] ALS copy, DLC-RTL; ALS, NAuE. Since this episode has been told a number of times, the editors do not undertake to elaborate upon it. Brief letters of resignation were submitted on December 16 by Seward and on December 20 by Chase. On December 21, Seward wrote, ``I have cheerfully resumed the functions of this Department in obedience to your command.'' (DLC-RTL). Chase, however, replied on December 22, as follows:
``On Saturday afternoon I received your note addressed to Mr. Seward and myself desiring us to resume the charge of our respective Departments.
``I had just written you a letter expressing quite another judgment; and that you may fully understand my sentiments I now send it to you. [See note, Lincoln to Chase, supra.]
``Your note, of course, required me to reconsider my views; and the next [sic] a further reason for reconsideration was furnished by the receipt from Mr. Seward of a copy of his reply to a note from you, identical with that sent to me, announcing his resumption of the duties of the State Department.
``I cannot say that reflection has much if at all changed my original impressions; but it has led me to the conclusion that I ought, in this matter, to conform my action to your judgment and wishes.
``I shall resume, therefore, my post as Secretary of the Treasury; ready, however, at any moment, to resign it, if, in your judgment, the success of your administration may be, in the slightest degree, promoted.'' (Ibid.).