LETTER TO COLORED CITIZENS IN NEW YORK, CELEBRATING THE ANNIVERSARY OF
THE PROCLAMATION, DECEMBER 18, 1863.
WASHINGTON, December 18, 1863.
GENTLEMEN,--It is not in my power to be present at your festival
in honor of the Proclamation of Emancipation. But, wherever I may
be, I shall celebrate it in my heart.
That Proclamation was the key to open the gates of victory and
peace. Without it victory would have been doubtful, and peace
impossible. And now both are certain.
Accept my best wishes, and believe me, Gentlemen,
Faithfully yours,