Sept. 13, 1862, 12 Midnight, Telegram: Gen. George B. McClellan to President Abraham Lincoln

TELEGRAM-WAR DEPARTMENT RECEIVED COPY

Gen. George B. McClellan to President Abraham Lincoln

Sept. 13, 1862, 12 Midnight

Lincoln’s personal received telegram, written in the hand of a War Department telegraphic operator. The "Trophies" telegram, page 1.

Lincoln’s personal received telegram, written in the hand of a War Department telegraphic operator. The "Trophies" telegram, page 2.

Transcription:

Time Received 2:35 AM

Washington, D. C., Sept 14 1862.

Hd Qrs Frederick Sept 13, 12 Midnight.

I have the whole Rebel force in front of me but am confident and no time shall be lost. I have a difficult task to perform but with Gods blessing will accomplish it. I think Lee has made a gross mistake & that he will be severely punished for it. The army is in motion as rapidly as possible. I hope for a great success if the plans of the Rebels remain unchanged We have possession of Cotocktane. I have all the plans of the Rebels and will catch them in their own [continued on page 2]  rap if my men are equal to the emergency.

I now feel that I can t count on them as of old. All forces of Penna should be placed to cooperate at Chambersburg. My respects to Mrs Lincoln. Received most enthusiastically by the ladies. Will send you trophies.  All well and with Gods blessing will accomplish it.

Geo B McClellan.

Notes:

McClellan’s original sending copy of this telegram has not been located. There is a time-stamp discrepancy between Lincoln's copy and the War Department received copy. Lincoln's copy is time-stamped "12 Midnight." The War Department copy is time-stamped "12 M." For noon. Overwhelming evidence shows that the sent time was midnight. For a detailed analysis, see The McClellan Debate.

Source: 

The Abraham Lincoln Papers at the Library of Congress

Series 1. General Correspondence. 1833-1916.

George B. McClellan to Abraham Lincoln, Saturday, September 13, 1862 (Telegram concerning military affairs)