President issues Special War Order No. 1. Army of Potomac formed into expedition to occupy "a point upon the Rail Road South Westward of what is known of Manassas Junction . . . to move before, or on, the 22nd. day of February next." President's Special War Order No. 1, 31 January 1862, CW, 5:115.

Sends additional documentation on "Trent" affair to Congress. Abraham Lincoln to the Senate and House of Representatives, 31 January 1862, CW, 5:115.

Directs that "Lane Expedition" against region west of Missouri and Kansas [Arkansas] be under supervision of Gen. McClellan and under command of Gen. Hunter. Abraham Lincoln to Edwin M. Stanton, 31 January 1862, CW, 5:115-16.

Approves act authorizing President of U.S. in certain cases to take possession of railroad and telegraph lines, and for other purposes. Stat. L., XII, 334.