1/21/1869: Paymaster William Keeler's 2nd Letter


Source: Samuel A. Mudd Pardon File B-596, RG 204, U.S. National Archives, College Park, Md

Dr. Mudd, Edman Spangler, Michael O’Laughlin, and Samuel Arnold were taken to Fort Jefferson aboard the U.S.S. Florida. William F. Keeler was the Navy Paymaster aboard the Florida. He wrote two letters concerning Dr. Mudd. His first letter, written in 1865, described the Florida’s trip to his wife Anna. His second letter, written in 1869, is presented below: 
La Salle, Ill.
Jany 21, 1869

Hon. B.C. Cook

Dear Sir

I learned by yesterday’s Chicago Tribune that efforts are being made to procure the pardon of Dr. Mudd. The U.S. Steamer Florida, to which I was attached conveyed him and his associates from Hampton Roads to the Tortugas. In conversation with myself, & I think with others on our passage down he admitted what I believe the prosecution failed to prove at his trial - viz - that he knew who Booth was when he set his leg & of what crime he was guilty. I have thought it might be well to have these facts known if they are not. 

Very truly yours

W.F. Keeler