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At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Stanton, Edwin McMasters (1814-1869) to George Edmunds re: possession of War Dept. & threats of assault, impeachment

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02854 Author/Creator: Stanton, Edwin McMasters (1814-1869) Place Written: Washington Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 02/22/1868 Pagination: 1 p. 24.6 x 19.6 cm + 1 engraving ; b&w ; 19 x 14 cm Order a Copy

1 black and white bust engraving of Stanton included.

War Department
Washington City,
Feb 22 6.30pm 1868
My Dear Sir
I regret your illness very much at this juncture when your patriotism & intelligence might be of so much service to the Country. I hope you will take care of yourself and avoid any exposure.
Affairs at the War Department are the same as last night. I am in possession but am threatened with assault tonight. It is not my purpose to occasion any violence or bloodshed. Lorenzo Thomas made a demonstration about noon but retired in good order without effecting any judgement [sic]. I am in state of siege camped out on the field. I am told that very effective speeches have been made during the day in favor of impeachment & debate goes on tonight.
With sincere regard I am Yours Truly
Hon George L. Edmunds Edwin M Stanton

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