President directs commander of U.S. forces on Florida coast to suspend writ of habeas corpus, "if he shall find it necessary." Proclamation Suspending Writ of Habeas Corpus in Florida, 10 May 1861, CW, 4:364-65.

Discusses with Gen. Scott and Sec. Cameron expected outbreak of fighting at Frederick, Md., as reported by messenger from Gov. Hicks (Md.). Talks New York patronage until weary and adjourns conference until 9 A.M. tomorrow. N.Y. Tribune, 11 May 1861.

Poses for photographs in M. B. Brady's studio. LL, No. 211.

President Lincoln writes to Rhode Island Governor William Sprague and explains why he will not appoint Sprague's choice to a postmaster position. Lincoln writes, "[A] different man . . . is recommended by both the Senators, and both the old Representatives of the State, and also by one of the new Representatives. In these cases the Executive is obliged to be greatly dependent upon members of Congress; and while, under peculiar circumstances, a single member or two, may be occasionally over-ruled, I believe as strong a combination as the present never has been. I therefore beg you to be assured that if I follow the rule in this case, as it appears to me I must, it will be with pain and not with pleasure, that you are not obliged." Abraham Lincoln to William Sprague, 10 May 1861, CW, 4:365.

[Mrs. Lincoln and suite arrive in Philadelphia. Baltimore Sun, 13 May 1861.]