He wrote well, but was disposed to dip his pen in gall.

He was careful as to matters of fact, fortified his memory by an accurate diary, and had an innate love of controversy.

With slavery abolished, the tendency of his mind was towards a lenient policy in Southern matters and for the promptest mode of reconstruction.
James Harlan of Iowa was Secretary of the Interior.

Caleb B.Smith, who was a member of Mr.Lincoln's original Cabinet, had resigned in order to accept a Federal judgeship in Indiana, and his able assistant-secretary, John P.Usher, had been promoted to the head of the department, fulfilling his trust to Mr.Lincoln's satisfaction.
He in turn resigned, and was succeeded by Mr.Harlan who was nominated by Mr.Lincoln, and unanimously confirmed by the Senate on the 9th of March--the confirmation to take effect on the 15th of May.

It was an exceptional form of appointment; but when the date was reached, President Johnson insisted that the new Secretary should assume the duties of the office.