Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln. Volume 7 [Nov. 5, 1863-Sept. 12, 1864].

Annotation

[1]   NH, X, 148. Presumably Lincoln dictated or wrote the text as reproduced by Nicolay and Hay, in reply to a letter from General Cadwallader C. Washburn, Memphis, June 22, 1864. Washburn's letter in the Lincoln Papers bears a similar endorsement in John Hay's autograph (``President declines making any further order in case of Presbyt. Church in Memphis.''), and is endorsed in another hand ``Ansd July 5 1864.'' Washburn's letter is as follows:

``There is a case in this city which I want you to settle. The shape in which you have left the case leaves me in doubt. The case is this.

``The 2nd Presbyterian Church in 1861 voted their bell to Genl Beauregard and discharged their Pastor Dr Grundy because he was suspected of being loyal. When our army came here Genl Sherman put Dr Grundy back into the church. He was called away and gave it up to the union people who desired to worship

there, only one or two of whom had any proprietary rights in the church. On the representation of the old trustees on the 4th March last you wrote as follows Viz. [See memorandum of March 4, supra]. . . .''

``Thereupon Genl Hurlbut made the following order

`` `Head Quarters 16th Army Corps

`` `Memphis Tenn 18th Mch 1864

`` `This church was taken possession of by Genl Sherman because of a traitorous resolution adopted by the Trustees. There is no ``Military necessity'' for retaining it. If the corporators satisfy Genl Buckland of their loyalty the church building will be delivered to them. The order of the President will be strictly carried out Signed S. A. HURLBUT Maj Genl' ''

``The Church was given up to the Trustees, and thereupon the parties turned out made their statement to you, when you endorsed thereon the following Viz [see endorsement of May 13, supra]. . . .''

``In making this last endorsement am I to understand that you wish the parties placed back who were put out, or are the parties in possession to keep it. I am left in doubt in regard to the matter and will be glad to be advised. . . .'' (DLC-RTL).