The Papers And Writings Of Abraham Lincoln-VOL. VI Chap. 2.39
Telegram To General W. S. Rosecrans.

Executive Mansion, Washington, February 12,1863.

MAJOR-GENERAL ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.:

Your despatch about "river patrolling" received. I have called the Secretary of the Navy, Secretary of War, and General-in-Chief together, and submitted it to them, who promise to do their very best in the case. I cannot take it into my own hands without producing inextricable confusion.

A. LINCOLN.