Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln. Volume 8 [ Sept. 12, 1864-Apr. 14, 1865, undated, appendices].

Annotation

[1]   Copy, DLC-RTL; copy, DNA WR RG 94, Adjutant General, Letters Received, P 1575. On October 3, 1864, Rosecrans wrote:

``In reply to your favor of the 26th ult. notwithstanding the reports you have received to the contrary, I have the honor to inform you that I have not nor ever had the slightest idea of preventing soldiers in my Department from attending the elections whenever and wherever they may have a legal right to vote, without neglecting paramount military duties. On the contrary I shall take such measures as . . . will most effectually secure to them and to every legal voter the right of voting according to the laws of the state. . . .

``I have have [sic] before me the orders and instructions to which you refer They seem good in principle and I shall prepare and publish one that will give satisfaction to all honest union men.'' (DLC-RTL).