In a letter to Mr.
Bullett of July 28, 1862, the President reviewed some of the impracticable methods of re-establishing civil authority desired by certain citizens of Louisiana who were very anxious to prevent any interference with property in slaves.

Mr.Thomas Durant was the spokesman for this large class of men who professed anxiety for the fate of the Union but were unwilling to do any thing to aid in saving it.

Mr.Lincoln's letter is very characteristic.

He says, "Mr.Durant speaks of no duty, apparently thinks of none resting upon Southern Union men.

He even thinks it injurious to the Union cause that they should be restrained in trade and passage without taking sides.