Correspondence from President Andrew Johnson to Governor W. G. Brownlow
Washington, D.C.
July 10th, 1865
Gov. W. G. Brownlow,
I hope, as I have no doubt you will see, that the laws passed by the last Legislature are faithfully executed, and that all illegal voters in the approaching election be kept from the polls and that the election of members of Congress be conducted fairly. Whenever it becomes necessary for the execution of the Law and the protection of the ballot box, you will call upon General Thomas for sufficient military force to sustain the civil authority of the State.
I have just read your address, which I most heartily endorse.
Andrew Johnson
President U.S.A