William H . Seward to Lewis E. Parsons , Provisional, December 18, 1865

[Untitled]

Sir: The time has arrived when, in the judgment of the President of the United States, the care and conduct of the proper affairs of the State of Alabama may be remitted to the constitutional authorities chosen by the people thereof. without danger to the peace and safety of the United States. By direction of the President, therefore, you are relieved from the trust which was heretofore reposed in you as provisional governor of the State of Alabama. Whenever the governor elect shall have accepted and become qualified to discharge the duties of the executive office, you will transfer the papers and property of the State now in your custody to his excellency the governor elect.

It gives me especial pleasure to convey to you the President’s acknowledgment of the fidelity, the loyalty, and the discretion which have marked your administration.

You will please give me a reply, specifying the day on which this communication is received.

I have the honor to be your excellency’s most obedient servant,