In 1865 the President and his state secretary received as peace
commissioners Alexander Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell. They wanted
recognition of their President, Davis, as head of the Confederated
States--an entity. Without stultification, this was impossible. In the
course of the discussion, reference was made to King Charles I. of
England and his Parliament negotiating--so might the established
Washington government treat with the rebel Davis. On Lincoln's features
stole that grim smile foretelling his shaft ready to shoot, and he
interjected:
"Upon questions of history I must refer you to Mr. Seward, for he is
posted on such things, and I do not profess to be; but my only distinct
recollection of that matter is that Charles I. lost his head!"
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