The Daily Dispatch: August 26, 1864., [Electronic resource]

---

---

Mr. Benjamin's circular.

This document will be read with peculiar interest by all persons and all classes of persons. That Gilmore and Jacques were emissaries of Lincoln, Mr. Benjamin does not seem to doubt. It is certain, at least, that they came here with his knowledge, and that they were in possession of his views. The proposition they submitted corresponded fully with Lincoln's circular "to all whom it may concern." The Confederate States were to submit, abolish slavery, acknowledge that they had done wrong, throw themselves on Lincoln's mercy, and ask pardon for having presumed to think they had a right to govern themselves. The question of Union or Secession was to be submitted to the whole body of the people constituting what used to be the United States; and as they outnumbered us two to one, there could be no doubt of the event.

Much has been said about the President's having received these two men. We are free to say that, under the circumstances, we do not see how he could well have avoided it. However, the circular will speak for itself, and to it we refer all classes of readers.