John Henry Brown was a painter of portrait miniatures, living and working in Philadelphia. He had met Lincoln in August of 1860 when he was commissioned to paint Lincoln’s portrait for a supporter, but although Brown liked Lincoln personally, he did not agree with Republican policies.
Transcript:
Had a Daguerre taken of Mrs Dr. Page. The Peace policy of Mr. Buchanan towards our Southern bretheren, and for which he was so much denounced by the Republicans, seems now to be the policy of Mr. Lincoln. I am afraid it is too good to be true. His party will not allow it.
Citation: John Henry Brown (1818-1891), autograph journal/account book. Philadelphia, 1844-1890. AMs 574/14.1
Alabama ratifies the Confederate States Constitution.
President Lincoln instructs Sec. of State Seward not of see the Confederate Commissioners. Lincoln takes the position, and holds it through out the war, that the Southern states cannot leave the Union. Thus they cannot be a separate nation and the United States cannot treat them as such. Under no event can the United States be see to treat them as such. By and large Lincoln will hold to this position with some practical concessions brought about by the necessities of war.
President Lincoln also consults with former naval officer, Gustavus Vasa Fox, on plans to re-supply Ft. Sumter. Contrary to the hopes of the Northern peace party Lincoln is determined not to surrender the Fort.