“'I said: 'I do not wish to disturb him, but it is very important that I see him before a crowd comes in. I will remain here.' “He stepped in and very soon returned, and at once showed me to the President's office up-stairs. He was waiting for me, and as I entered he came forward with both hands extended, and said, 'My dear friend Lyon, how are you?' “I answered him as to my health in a sad tone. He spoke of my great afflictions in the most tender manner, and inquired as to the telegram. “'I said: 'Mr. President, this paper,' handing him Henry's report, 'will explain it.' “He said: 'This is a long paper--as long as a President's message,' and laughed, saying, 'I expect you have been writing one for me?' “'I replied that it was an important message for a President. At this he laughed, and said: “'That is quite good, and is a very wise distinction; but,' said he, 'we will not read it now. When we get our breakfast, that will do, will it not?' “I replied: 'Yes, perhaps it will.' “He would have me take breakfast with him. His family only were present, and we all conversed freely, but principally about the late election and our success in the West against Head, and the prospects of Silent against Laws. He was feeling very happy and confident of final victory. He told me about having just returned with the Secretary of State from Hampton Roads, where they had met the Vice-President of the Southern Confederacy and others on a peace mission; 'but,' said he, 'it was the same kind of peace that the Copperheads have been preaching, under instructions from Richmond and the rebel agents in Canada, for three years.' “After breakfast we returned to his office. He instructed his usher that he could see no one for the present. Being seated, he drew the paper that I had given him from his side pocket and commenced reading. Very soon he exhibited some little excitement, rang his bell and sent for the Secretary of War, who soon came in. After the Secretary had exchanged compliments with me, the President continued reading. When he had finished he turned to me and said: “'This is the most extraordinary thing that I have ever read or heard of, in or out of history. Mr. Secretary, please read this.' [Illustration: Uncle Daniel conferring with Lincoln and Stanton 404]