PRESIDENT'S PROCLAMATION.
WASHINGTON, D. C., April 15, 1861.
WHEREAS, The laws of the United States have been and are opposed in several States by combinations too powerful to be suppressed in the ordinary way, I therefore call for the militia of the several States of the Union, to the aggregate number of 75,000, to suppress said combination and execute the laws. I appeal to all loyal citizens to facilitate and aid this effort, and maintain the laws and integrity of the National Union and the perpetuity of popular government, and redress wrongs long endured. The first service assigned will probably be to repossess the forts, places and property which have been seized from the Union. The utmost care will be taken, consistent with the object, to avoid devastation, destruction or interference of peaceful citizens in any part of the country; and I hereby command the persons composing the aforesaid combinations to disperse within twenty days from this date. I hereby convene both Houses of Congress for the 4th of July next, to determine upon such measures as the public safety and interest may demand.
(Signed) ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President of United States.
By W. H. SEWARD, Secretary of State.
PROCLAMATION BY THE GOVERNOR.UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, STATE OF ILLINOIS.
I, Richard Yates, Governor of the State of Illinois, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution, hereby convene the Legislature of said State, and the members of the 22d session of the General Assembly are hereby required to be and appear in their respective places, at the Capitol, in the city of Springfield, on Tuesday, the 23d day of April, A. D. 1861, for the purpose of enacting such laws and adopting such measures as may be deemed necessary upon the following subjects, to-wit: The more perfect organization and equipment of the militia of this State, and placing the same upon the best footing; and to render efficient assistance to the General Government in preserving the Union, enforcing the laws, and protecting the property and rights of the people. Also, to raise such money and other means as may be required to carry out the foregoing objects, and also to provide for the expenses of such session.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and have caused the great seal of the State to be hereunto affixed. At the city of Springfield, this 15th day of April, A. D. 1861.
By the Governor: RICHARD YATES.
O. M. HATCH, Secretary of State.
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