Butler, Benjamin F. (Benjamin Franklin) (1818-1893) to James Cook Conklin
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06089 Author/Creator: Butler, Benjamin F. (Benjamin Franklin) (1818-1893) Place Written: Lowell, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 1 September 1863 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 20.6 x 25.2 cm. Order a Copy
In a working draft of a telegram, General Butler responds to an invitation to a convention of Union supporters in Springfield, Illinois from Conkling, a judge active in state politics. Discussing the Civil War, states "Compromises are impossible save between equals in rights-- Reorganization or reconstruction is alone useful where vicious parts are to be left out. Amnesties are for individuals not for organized communities ... " Marked as a telegram. Contains a handwritten note in faded red ink on the first page labeling the document as copied. This telegram cites Conkling's name as "Conklin."
Abraham Lincoln declined a similar invitation from Conkling in a letter dated 26 August 1863.
Telegram
Lowell Sept 1st 1863
[In another hand: Copied, meaning probably in Bulter's letterbook giving page references]
To
Hon James C. Conklin [sic]
Springfield Illinois
Dispatch inviting me to Springfield received. Just returned from a Journey. Should be glad to meet my Brothers of the Northwest upon the Momentous Questions of the Present future[.]
Rebellious States exist only by the surprise or weakness of the Parent Government.
Compromises are impossible save between equals in rights Reorganisation or reconstruction is alone useful where vicious parts are to be left out. [2] Anmesties are for individuals not for organised communities[.]
Therefore prosecute the war, bring every part of the country into submission to the laws of the United States Then there will be no place for rebellion no parties for compromises no occasion for reconstruction and clemency may be offered to individual citizens who deserve it.
Is there any other way to restore the Union.
Benj. Butler
[docket:]
Draft of Telegram to
Hon. J.C. Conklin.
Springfield Convention
September 1st. 1863.
Sentiments upon the moment
ous questions of the present
future.
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