The classes excepted were more numerous and far more comprehensive than those excluded from amnesty under the proclamation issued by Mr.Lincoln on the 8th of December, 1863.

That proclamation not only embodied the views of Mr.Lincoln, but was approved by Mr.Seward in whole and in detail.

The difference between the two proclamations was not, however, radical, and was readily reconcilable with Mr.Seward's purpose.

He had indeed equalized their attributes of mercy by inducing President Johnson to insert a proviso declaring that "special application may be made to the President for pardon by any person belonging to the excepted classes," and the assurance was added that "such clemency will be liberally extended for amnesty and pardon." Applications came in great numbers from the South.

In the archives of the State Department there are some twenty-four large volumes recording the pardons granted in less than nine months after the proclamation.