Interview of a Canadian editor with the President.
--The editor of the
London (
Canada)
Free Press, writing from
Washington to his paper, has describes an interview with
Mr. Lincoln:
‘
The President's private room is just over the reception room, and is entered from a sort of square hall, about which there are many waiting rooms for persons seeking audiences with the
President.
Upon entering this room, I saw persons walking to and fro in waiting.
I at once placed in the hands of a messenger my card and letters (previously procured from friends in New York and
Cincinnati), to deliver to the
President, and, with scarcely a moment's delay, I was tethered into his presence, when he arose and stepped forward in a stooping position, extended his hand and shook mine kindly, but rather loosely, as if he was afraid of hurting it, remarking, at the same time "I am glad to see you, sir; be seated." I replied: "I am a stranger in the capital, and have sought an interview with you,
Mr. President, and have been much pleased with the easy means of access."
’
President.--Yes; this ready means of access is, I may say, under our form of government, the only link or cord which connects the people with the governing power, and however unprofitable much of it is, it must be kept up. As, for instance, a mother in a distant part, who has a son in the army who is regularly enlisted, has not served out his time, but has been as long as she thinks he ought to stay, will collect together all the little means she can to bring her here to entreat me to grant him his discharge.--Of course I cannot interfere, and can only see her and speak kindly to her. How fairs your place from
Detroit, sir!
"About one hundred miles east from
Detroit.--We have no water communication, but have a very nice little inland city.
I intend remaining in
Washington for a few days; allecems stir and commotion here."
"
President."--Yes, there never was anything in history to equal this.
"Your position must indeed be responsible and trying,
President."
"Yes, to think of it, it is very strange that I, a boy, brought up in the woods, and seeing, as it were, but little of the world, should be drifted into the very apex of this great event."
"I read your proclamation morning calling for more men; it will, no doubt be filled up."
President.--"Yes, sir, it will be filled up."
I then rose, saying: "I thank you,
Mr. President, for your kindness and courtesy. "
President shakes hands again, and says: ‘"I am most happy to have made your acquaintance."’
These words are given exactly as expressed by the
President, written down a few moments after they were uttered.
