Copy of a memorandum furnished the Inspector General by President Lincoln, in the presence of Hon. J. J. Crittenden who endorsed on it his initals, — in Washington City, July 10. 1861. — not for publication.

"It is my duty, as I conceive, to suppress an insurrection existing within the United States. I wish to do this with the least possible disturbance, or annoyance to well disposed people anywhere. So far I have not sent an armed force into Kentucky; nor have I any present purpose to do so. I sincerely desire that no necessity for it may be presented; but I mean

to say nothing which shall hereafter embarrass me in the performance of what may seem to be my duty — "

July 10. 1861."

(signed) "J. J. C"

Lincoln^s answer